Charters Towers Australia Day Ambassador Announced
As part of this year’s Australia Day Celebrations, Charters Towers will welcome Australia Day Ambassador Jay Larkins, Director of Brisbane’s Paralympic Football Program, to the region.
Jay became passionate about Paralympic football after his son was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and in 2006 established the Brisbane Paralympic Football Program.
As Director, Jay oversees a team of assistant coaches, managers, volunteers and regular physiotherapists and occupational therapists, who are all committed to helping the young athletes be the best they can. Today he coaches more than 100 children with a disability, giving them an opportunity to engage in team sport and exercise.
Jay’s ‘never say never’ attitude has been inspirational to many participants in the program, with four athletes representing Australia and others working towards selection for the Australian Paralympic football team.
In 2020 Jay coordinated with the Australian Catholic University campuses in Melbourne and Sydney to supply them with online opportunities to complete their community engagement requirements while they were in lockdown.
“Council is delighted that Jay will be coming to Charters Towers for the 2023 Australia Day activities. His visit will allow locals to hear from and meet a very passionate, dedicated and inspiring Australian,” Acting Mayor Graham Lohmann said.
As part of his visit to Charters Towers, Jay will present the keynote address at the Charters Towers Australia Day Awards Ceremony as part of his Australia Day Ambassador duties.
The Australia Day Ambassador Program sends high achieving Australians to over 300 community celebrations nationwide every Australia Day. Ambassadors are past recipients of the Australian of the Year Awards, sportspeople, scientists, businesspeople, actors and community workers who provide inspiration and pride to Australia Day events and activities.
The Australia Day Awards Ceremony will be held on Thursday, 26 January 2023, at The World Theatre from 6pm.