Special Olympics Queensland

📣 Save the date: Queensland Polar Plunge events coming up

Brisbane, Gold Coast, Moreton North, and Redlands:
📍 Chermside Aquatic Centre
📅 Sunday 12th July 2026

Bundaberg:
📍 Bundaberg Aquatic Centre
📅 Sunday 2nd August 2026

Mackay:
📍 Mackay Aquatic & Recreation Complex
📅 Sunday 2nd August 2026

Sunshine Coast:
📍 Alexandra Headlands
📅 Sunday 30th August 2026

For more information, visit:
👉 https://include.specialolympics.com.au/polar-plunge

Hope to see you there!

Law Enforcement Torch Run QLD

June Competition and Event Calendar Now Available

Stay up to date with all upcoming opportunities to train, compete, and connect across the state. Whether you are an athlete, coach, volunteer, or supporter, there is something for everyone this month.
View the full calendar here: https://www.specialolympics.com.au/find-a-sport-near-me/qld

Make sure to mark your dates and get involved. We look forward to seeing you at events throughout June.

Date Change Notice: Equestrian Practice Day

Please note that the upcoming Equestrian Practice Day has been rescheduled and will now take place on:

Sunday, 7 June 2026
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location remains the same:
EquusTerra, 40 Medway Street, Rocklea

The session will include hands-on practice, Dressage tests, and English Working Trail.

To book, please contact:
Irina Amelina
Email: [email protected]
Mobile: 0402 961 428

✈️🤝 Earlier this year, Special Olympics Queensland was fortunate to receive a grant through Brisbane Airport's Community Giving Fund.

In April, QLD State Manager Kim McDonald-Wilkes and Team QLD Assistant Head of Delegation Bec Carter were invited to the official presentation ceremony, where they received a certificate from Brisbane Airport's CEO Gert-Jan de Graaf.

The funding will help support athletes at the upcoming 2026 National Games.

Thank you Brisbane Airport for backing inclusion and recognising the power of sport to build confidence, connection, and community ❤️

❄️ Get ready to get freezin’ for a reason! ❄️

Polar Plunge is back in 2026! This nationwide movement, coordinated by LETR to raise vital funds and awareness for Special Olympics Australia for braving icy waters.

Whether joining in the plunge or donating funds, anyone can get involved!

Each contribution helps support athletes with intellectual disability and/or autism experience the life-changing power of sport.

As we mark 50 years of Special Olympics in Australia, this year's Polar Plunge recognises half a century of inclusion and remarkable athletic achievements.

Registration is only $30. Click here to finLaw Enforcement Torch Run QLD out more:
👉 https://include.specialolympics.com.au/polar-plunge

✨🌈 Today marks the start of Pride Month 2026 🌈✨

June is about wholeheartedly embracing who you are and celebrating the strength, beauty, and power of the LGBTQ+ community.

Special Olympics Queensland proudly stands with LGBTQ+ athletes, staff, volunteers, families, and partners. Happy ! 🎉

🖤💛❤️ This week is National Reconciliation Week (27th May - 3rd June)

It is a time for us to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

This year's theme is "All In", calling for all Australians to commit to reconciliation each day. It reminds us that reconciliation won't happen by itself - we must be "all in". It is our collective responsibility 🫶

Reconciliation Australia

Congratulations Jack Craig-Daly for completing your first ever marathon! 🎉🙌

Jack recently participated in the ASICS Runaway Noosa Marathon, demonstrating incredible grit, drive, and determination. He achieved this life goal whilst also managing his dad's recent, unexpected passing.

Jack is set to compete as part of in Athletics at the National Games later this year.

We're all so proud of you and this momentous achievement. Amazing work Jack!

Last Friday, Annette Dundas was recognised as one of three finalists for the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards. She was nominated in the Lifetime Contribution to Volunteering category for her extensive work as a Special Olympics Australia Queensland Volunteer.

Annette's service has spanned over two decades, working on the medical team at five National Games (2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2023). She has been a part of the medical team for , including being the Head of Department, since 2006. Her other roles have included being a part of SOMS (formerly called the State Membership Officer) from 2002, and on the Special Olympics Queensland State Committee (2006-2025) and State Selection Committee (2018 and 2022).

Annette has also attended the Asia Pacific Games (2013), Trans-Tasman Competition (2012 and 2016), Junior Nationals (2012 and 2017), and Invitational Bocce Special Olympics Asia Pacific Competition (2024) on Team Medical.

Annette's commitment, professionalism, and leadership skills are truly commendable, with her going above and beyond to support athletes. She is a true role model and a highly valued member of our community.

Her daughter Andrea is a long-time Special Olympics athlete, and will be competing at the National Games in Melbourne this year for bocce. Annette will also be attending as Head Medical for .

Congratulations Annette! 🥳

"I volunteer because I believe in inclusion, and in the power of sport to build confidence, friendships, and life skills. Watching athletes achieve their goals - on and off the field - reminds me why this work matters. Every high-five, every breakthrough, every shared laugh show that creating opportunities for people of all abilities isn’t just important - it’s essential" (coach, Moreton North).

Want to become a volunteer? Click here to find out more:
👉 https://volunteeringqld.org.au/role/230776

Special Olympics Australia Australian Sports Commission