What’s happening?
Seven-time Australian Paralympian Angie Ballard has been appointed to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee Board. She steps into the role held by Kurt Fearnley, who is completing his term.
Ms Ballard will attend her first official Board meeting in the new year, while Mr Fearnley will continue as a member of Brisbane 2032’s Athletes and Sport Advisory Group.
Brisbane 2032 President Andrew Liveris congratulated Ms Ballard and acknowledged the work of Mr Fearnley during his time on the Board.
Why it matters
The appointment ensures continued Paralympic insight at the Board table. Mr Liveris said Mr Fearnley had been vital in raising what matters most to people with a disability during planning for the Games.
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander described Ms Ballard as the perfect choice, noting her long service and strong record.
The shift keeps a strong athlete voice central to decisions for the 2032 Games.
Local impact
The Games will take place across Queensland, and decisions shaped by Paralympic experience support planning that considers access and inclusion for athletes and visitors.
By the numbers
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Ms Ballard has won eight medals for Australia, which Minister Mander highlighted as a sign of her determination and hard work.
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She has competed in seven Paralympic Games, giving her long experience in elite sport and athlete needs.
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Mr Fearnley has contributed more than three years on the Board and will now continue his work on the Athletes and Sport Advisory Group.
Zoom in
Mr Liveris praised Mr Fearnley, saying, “Kurt is an inspirational motivator no matter the audience or cause. When he talks, people listen and take action, and our Board is incredibly grateful to have had him serve as part of it.”
He then welcomed Ms Ballard, adding, “As Kurt leaves the Board, I’m delighted to welcome Angie, whose record speaks for itself amongst the Paralympic community. We are firmly focused on ensuring inclusion and access is universally part of our Games and I have no doubt Angie will play a significant role as part of our decisions.”
Minister Mander also supported her appointment. He said, “Angela Ballard is an Australian legend, and I know she’ll continue her journey as a highly respected advocate for Para sport in her new role.”
He added, “Winning eight medals for Australia is a reflection of her determination and hard work, and it’s these attributes that will serve her well in delivering a fantastic Paralympic Games in 2032.”
He also thanked Mr Fearnley, saying, “I would also like to thank Kurt Fearnley for his contributions in the role for more than three years, and I wish him well with his continued position on the Board’s Athletes and Sport Advisory Group.”
Zoom out
The Board’s new arrangement keeps Paralympic insight at the centre of Games planning. Ms Ballard steps in as Mr Fearnley shifts into his continued advisory role, with both remaining part of work shaping Brisbane 2032.
What to look for next?
Ms Ballard’s first official Brisbane 2032 Board meeting will take place in the new year.
