Gallagher will compete in the F13 javelin throw, the 24-year-old earlier this year becoming the first ever Australian women to win a Winter Paralympic medal thanks to her bronze in the women’s slalom.

"Jess’s story is testament to her determination to succeed as an athlete, and that’s what I’m looking for from the whole team,” said Rohan Short, Athletics Australia Paralympic Preparation Programme manager.

Other notable names in the squad include Heath Francis, Hamish MacDonald, Evan O’Hanlon and Tim Sullivan, the quartet each returning from the 2006 IPC World Athletics Championships in Assen with gold medals.

Looking to retain their status as world champions when the event in Christchurch opens on January 21 will be double Paralympic gold medallist O’Hanlon, who also boasts a current number one world ranking in the T38 100m and 200m.

Also top ranked after Michelle Errichiello and Rachael Dodds in the T42 and T35 100m and 200m respectively.

"The team for Christchurch is as strong as we could have hoped," said Short.

"Not only do we have a bounty of senior athletes with plenty of international experience, but also 15 debutants donning the green and gold for the first time.

"The Championships will bring together the best athletes our sport has to offer and that’s exciting news for Australian athletes looking to perform well at what is an important qualification opportunity for the 2012 Paralympics in London.

"Despite recent earthquakes Christchurch will be ready for the world to compete and as a team we need to be ready to compete against the world.”


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