Two-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist Kurt Fearnley AO PLY has been conferred Life Membership of Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA) as part of Annual General Meeting (AGM) proceedings in Sydney today.
A three-time Paralympic gold medallist, Fearnley was humbled by the acknowledgement of his achievements both on and off the track and in representing Australia across multiple Commonwealth Games.
Made an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2018 for his distinguished service to people with a disability, as a supporter of, and fundraiser for Indigenous athletics and charitable organisations, and as a Paralympic athlete, Fearnley’s induction sees him become the 34th Life Member of CGA.
“To see my name alongside those that have been honoured before me is truly humbling,” Fearnley said.
“The Commonwealth Games were an integral part of my athletic journey. From my first Games to my last, each experience taught me something new about competition, camaraderie and what it means to represent Australia.
“What makes the Commonwealth Games special is the unique spirit of competition combined with genuine friendship between nations. It’s been a privilege to be part of that movement and to witness firsthand how sport can break down barriers and bring communities together.”
CGA President Ben Houston congratulated Fearnley for his service to the Commonwealth Sport Movement in Australia.
“Kurt’s contribution to the Commonwealth Sport Movement, and to Australian sport more broadly, has been extraordinary,” Houston said.
“He is a two-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist, a flag bearer, and above all, a leader and changemaker. His tireless efforts to champion inclusion, both on and off the track, have left an indelible mark on our movement.
“To confer Life Membership on Kurt is not only recognition of his achievements as an athlete, but of the values he lives and promotes every. I congratulate him on this well-deserved honour.”
Fearnley competed at three Commonwealth Games (Delhi 2010, Glasgow 2014 and Gold Coast 2018), winning gold medals in the 1500m Para-Sport Wheelchair in 2010 and the Marathon T54 Para-Sport in 2018. During his distinguished career, he also won 13 Paralympic medals across five Paralympic Games.
The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, which served as the swan song to his storied career, closed with Fearnley honoured as the Australian flag bearer at the Closing Ceremony.
In 2019, the Kurt Fearnley Scholarship was established with the support of the Carbine Club of NSW and the NSW Institute of Sport, offering individual scholarships to support future para-sport talent in New South Wales. Since its inception, more than 20 athletes have benefited from the program.
Beyond his athletic accomplishments, Fearnley has served on numerous boards and committees, including in an ongoing capacity with the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee, and was named the 2019 NSW Australian of the Year for his advocacy and community contribution.
At the AGM, Members also returned both Marlene Elliott and David Mandel to the Board for four-year terms, while a casual vacancy position occupied by Kate Corkery was formally ratified.
To view and download the 2024 Annual Report, please click here.
