The Sunshine Coast’s proud Commonwealth Games legacy was celebrated this last night when Member for Ninderry Dan Purdie MP paid tribute to the region’s sports community in Parliament.
Mr Purdie said a record 37 athletes from across the coast represented the region with pride and distinction.
“In fact, if the Sunshine Coast competed as a separate entity, we would have come 13th in the overall medal tally with five gold, five silver and five bronze medals,” Mr Purdie said.
The Bli Bli community, located in the Ninderry electorate, was also recognised for its sporting heritage, having been the home of Queensland’s first-ever Commonwealth Games athlete, Jim Achurch, who won gold in the javelin at the 1954 Games in Vancouver.
Sixty four years later, former Bli Bli student and Hockeyroo Ashlea Fey continued the tradition, taking home silver at the Gold Coast event.
Mr Purdie also sung the praises of the Sunshine Coast Sports Federation and its president, Benny Pike.
“Since its inception 50 years ago, that not-for-profit volunteer organisation has helped raise over $2million, which has been reinvested in our local athletes and sporting clubs,” Mr Purdie said.
“I acknowledge our local sporting clubs and schools, and the coaches who have played a part in the development of athletes and importantly their parents, who have no doubt made considerable personal and financial sacrifices to help their kids to follow their dreams and reach their potential.”
“I thank the athletes, their support teams, their families and the Sunshine Coast Sports Federation for all the work they do to help our local athletes reach their full potential.”