House debates

Thursday, 25 October 2018

Statements by Members

Invictus Games

1:30 pm

Photo of Anne StanleyAnne Stanley (Werriwa, Australian Labor Party) Share this | | Hansard source

Champion legend, victor, hero—all these words are splashed across the media every day to describe those playing professional sport. These descriptions are often cliches and don't really reflect the effort of the individual in the spotlight. That can't be said, though, of the athletes currently competing in the Invictus Games in Sydney. Invictus means 'unconquerable' in Latin. That is certainly the spirit on display this week. 'Invictus' embodies the fighting spirit of the wounded, injured and sick service personnel taking part. Founded by Prince Harry and first held in 2014, the Sydney games have 500 competitors from 18 nations and 11 sports. Recently, I had the honour of meeting Andrew Wilkinson, who lives in the electorate of Werriwa. Andrew was in peak training for this week's Invictus Games and I appreciate the time he spent explaining his events and the path that led him to wanting to compete. I'm pleased to advise the House that Andrew has so far competed in road cycling and swimming and has won three silver and three gold medals. All these athletes are inspiring for their support of each other and their willingness to succeed. I add my congratulations to them and to Andrew for such a wonderful Games.