DISABLED Wintersport Australia (DWA) has launched an Aussie first with its new Para Nordic Skiing program.
Para Nordic Skiing is a winter Paralympic sport incorporating the disciplines of Para Cross–Country (ParaXC) and Para Biathlon, and until now, there has not been a formal Para Nordic Skiing program in Australia at any level.
The official launch on July 3 coincided with DWA's first camp for Para Nordic coaches at Falls Creek.
The program is being bankrolled by a significant Sport Australia Participation Grant.
DWA chief executive officer Jenni Cole said the long–term goal is to establish the sport of Para Nordic Skiing in Australia, both on and off snow, bringing this traditionally winter sport to people with disability across five states initially.
"DWA's partners in this important initiative are Snow Australia, Paralympics Australia and Biathlon Australia, who are working closely with us to develop and deliver coach and guide training, and pilot programs across locations in Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra, Wodonga, Jindabyne, Adelaide, Falls Creek, Mt Hotham and Perisher Ranges," she said.
"The program is supported by World Para Nordic Skiing, with its coaching expert Kaspar Wirz currently in Australia delivering coach training and providing advice and support regarding development of Para Nordic Skiing programs from participation to podium.
"DWA aims to provide 'Freedom on Snow' through adaptive snowsport programs and equipment, training of specialist adaptive snowsport volunteer guides and working with alpine resorts and government to improve disability access to the alpine regions in Australia.
"This Para Nordic Skiing program significantly extends the programs DWA is able to offer its members, both on and off snow."
Ms Cole said the opportunity to lead the establishment of a new sporting opportunity for people with disability is "tremendously exciting".
"Once established, these programs will be available for people with disability year round, on and off snow," she said.
Ms Cole said DWA is also working closely with veteran sport organisations such as VESPA ParaBiathlon, to ensure that this sport is also available for wounded, injured and ill veterans and serving ADF members with a disability, especially leading in to the Invictus Games in Canada 2025, which will include winter disciplines for the first time.
Paralympian James Millar, Australia's only ever Paralympic level Biathlete, leads the steering group for the project, ensuring that it remains athlete and participant focused.
"When I was starting, I came through the Interschools program and had to drive everything myself," Mr Millar said.
"For those athletes who will come through now, it's fantastic to see this level of structure and support, from the start, right through to the podium".
