Australia’s indomitable spirit is set to unfold on the grandest stages of Paralympic sport. With Paris 2024 on the horizon, a contingent of 4,400 Paralympic athletes from over 150 countries is gearing up to compete. Among them, a highly experienced and passionate Australian delegation stands out as one of the favourites.

Gone is the disappointment of their lowest performance since the turn of the millennium—8th place in Tokyo three years ago—. This time, the Australian team is bolstered by 43 athletes with a special connection: they are alumni of the Commonwealth Games. These competitors not only carry their nation's pride but also the experience of excelling on the international stage. Of these, 32 have tasted the podium, having won medals at the Commonwealth Games.

Among the standout names is swimmer Tim Hodge, who clinched gold at Birmingham 2022. For Hodge, Paris 2024 represents more than just another competition; it is an opportunity to push his body and mind beyond known limits. "It’s an incredible honour to compete in my third Paralympic Games," Hodge humbly states, though his confidence is rooted in his wealth of experience. “My coach and I haven’t left anything to chance. We’ll draw on all my previous experience and the intense training of the past three years to achieve my best possible performance,” he adds, reflecting the meticulous preparation behind each stroke.

Since 2000, the Oceania epicentre has consistently proven its Paralympic prowess, accumulating achievements that speak volumes. Despite a hiccup in Tokyo 2020, where the country secured 80 medals, including 21 golds, and slipped in the rankings compared to their usual top-five performance, the recent history is rich in success. At Rio 2016, London 2012, Beijing 2008, and Athens 2004, Australia always remained within the top-five, peaking at Sydney 2000 with an astounding tally of 149 medals, including 63 golds.

However, Paris 2024 is not just a stage for veterans. Hani Watson, a bronze medallist from the Commonwealth Games who will compete in weightlifting—an event absent from the Aussie roster for 12 years—returns with fierce determination. “I feel excited, honoured, and humbled to don the green and gold again,” Watson remarks, her voice trembling with resolve. “I know my late mother will be with me on the platform, ready to lift a heavy weight. I can already hear her saying: ‘You can do it, darling, go on,’” she adds, underscoring the emotional and physical battles that define her journey.

Cyclist and four-time Commonwealth Games medallist Jessica Gallagher is also gearing up for this new challenge. “It has been a significant few years since the Commonwealth Games and world championships. We are ready to start this next chapter,” Gallagher says, eyes set on what promises to be an unforgettable event. “We are very grateful to know that everyone back in Australia will be watching and cheering us on. Let the action begin!” she exclaims, capturing the team’s enthusiasm.

Petria Thomas, Head of the Australian Commonwealth Games team, expressed her unwavering support for the athletes embarking on this new Paralympic adventure. “On behalf of the Commonwealth Games team, I want to wish our incredible Paralympic athletes all the best for the Paris 2024 Paralympics,” Thomas says. “Their resilience, dedication, and passion are inspiring. Now is their time to shine: go out, seize the moment, and show the world what the Aussies are made of. We are all behind you!”

Traditionally a sporting giant, especially in the Paralympic arena, Australia is poised to write a new chapter in its storied athletic history. Paris 2024 promises to be the stage where dreams come true, and where the green and gold will shine brighter than ever.