DWA Launches Its Para Nordic Program

Disabled Wintersport Australia launched its Para Nordic Skiing program at Falls Creek on Saturday 3rd July, thanks to a significant Sport Australia Participation Grant. 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.

DWA’s 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 5 states initially. DWA’s partners in this important initiative are Snow Australia, Paralympics Australia and Biathlon Australia, who are working closely with DWA 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. The program is supported by World Para Nordic Skiing, with its coaching expert Mr 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.

For more details about the program follow this link to the DWA website.

Featured image: Lincoln Budge and James Millar cross-country skiing at Falls Creek