Disability Sports Australia (DSA) and the Australian Dragon Boat Federation (AusDBF) are embarking on a joint endeavor to promote inclusivity and accessibility within their sport. This collaborative initiative is a part of DSA’s Sports Incubator program, which is designed to empower sports organizations to foster inclusive pathways for individuals with disabilities.

The Sports Incubator program aims to support national sporting bodies and recreational program providers in creating and expanding social and active avenues for people with disabilities.

Through this partnership, AusDBF will gain access to valuable resources that will aid in making their organization more welcoming and accommodating for individuals with disabilities.

The primary objective of this collaboration is to enhance the participation of ParaDragons and to encourage a broader engagement of individuals with disabilities in the sport.

Ayden Shaw, General Manager of DSA, expressed enthusiasm about the inclusion of the Australian Dragon Boat Federation in the Sports Incubator program, citing the Federation’s already commendable efforts in the inclusivity domain. Shaw emphasized the potential for leveraging networks, resources, and knowledge to further advance the accessibility of the sport and facilitate the involvement of more individuals with disabilities.

As part of this partnership, DSA will collaborate with AusDBF to assess and enhance existing policies, processes, and procedures to ensure that they are disability inclusive. Additionally, the two organizations will jointly facilitate training and education initiatives to deepen understanding and awareness of disability inclusion within the context of dragon boat racing.

Ian Gearey, Diversity and Inclusion Director of the Australian Dragon Boat Federation, expressed the significance of the collaboration with Disability Sports Australia in propelling dragon boat racing toward a more inclusive future in Australia. Gearey emphasized the unifying power of sports and its role in fostering a sense of belonging within communities. He noted that this collaboration will not only enrich the sport but also create new opportunities for individuals with disabilities to experience the thrill of dragon boat racing.

The overarching objective of the Sports Incubator program is to create environments that enable people with disabilities to flourish, while also instilling a greater sense of confidence and capability within organizations to deliver accessible programs.

With both entities now committed to working harmoniously, they are poised to reshape the landscape of dragon boat racing, ensuring its inclusivity for generations to come.

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Photo Courtesy Australian Dragon Boat Federation

Courtesy Australian Dragon Boat Federation