Paralympic Stars Inspire At Accessibility Seminar

Paralympic stars Kelly Cartwright OAM and Dr. Brendan Burkett OAM recently visited Mackay to lead discussions on accessibility and inclusivity in sports and recreation.

Their presence at the 2024 Accessible Active Living Seminar at Harrup Park Country Club was a powerful reminder that an impairment does not define one's ability to achieve greatness—mindset does.

Kelly Cartwright, who found success as a gold medal-winning 100m sprinter, long jumper and most recently a powerlifter, shared her journey of overcoming adversity. Despite losing a limb at a young age, Kelly's determination and positive mindset propelled her to the pinnacle of Paralympic success.

She became the first above-knee amputee woman to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in 2009, proving that with the right mindset, no challenge is impossible.

Dr. Brendan Burkett, an Australian swimmer who won five medals across four Paralympics and served as the Opening Ceremony flag bearer in Sydney 2000, also shared his experiences. He spoke about the challenges he faced in his career, from competing at the highest levels of sport to breaking barriers in his professional life.

Despite losing his leg in a hit-and-run accident, Dr. Burkett's relentless pursuit of excellence led him to earn a PhD in Biomechanics and become the first person with a disability to work as an engineer on oil rigs in the North Sea.

During the seminar, Dr. Burkett shared a powerful story that encapsulated the power of mindset. He recalled a time when he was flying with a good friend who used a wheelchair and was a double amputee. When Dr. Burkett expressed his wish for first-class legroom, his friend confidently remarked that he already felt like he was in first class…because he didn’t need the extra legroom.

This perspective left a lasting impact on Dr. Burkett, reminding him that success is not about external circumstances but about how one perceives and approaches challenges.

Dr Burkett shared that after this encounter, instead of over analysing every move as he was preparing to compete, he “just switched off and went ‘first-class.’

“The gun goes off and all I’m thinking about is ‘first class’.”

After touching the end of the pool wall, Dr Burkett said “I turned around and saw my name up in the gold medal spot and it was all because of someone that said to me, ‘first class’.”

Mayor Greg Williamson emphasised the importance of these messages, noting that Kelly and Brendan’s achievements demonstrate what can be accomplished when one refuses to be defined by their limitations.

“These are amazing Australians with a wealth of knowledge and experience.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to hear their insights into improving accessibility and inclusivity in sports and recreation, especially in relation to grass roots clubs.”

The seminar was not only an opportunity to learn from these Paralympic legends but also a call to action for the local community. It highlighted the need to create inclusive environments where everyone, regardless of ability, can participate and excel.

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Dr. Brendan Burkett OAM with Mayor Greg Williamson and Kelly Cartwright OAM. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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