NSWIS athletes honoured with OAM

NSW Institute of Sport athletes featured in the Australia Day Honours List by receiving a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in recognition of their first Olympic gold medal, while Paralympians Lauren Parker and Tim Hodge were also acknowledged for their feats which inspired the nation.

BMX cyclist Saya Sakakibara, Canoeist Noemie Fox, and swimmer Olivia Wunsch were among the 16 Paris Olympians presented with the medal.

AOC President Ian Chesterman AM congratulated the recipients and thanked them for their remarkable contributions.

“Winning 18 gold medals in Paris was a remarkable performance by the Australian Team and I am delighted to see our 16 new gold medallists recognised,” Chesterman said. “Our athletes’ successes in Paris filled the nation with pride and inspired Australians of all ages.

Parker, who like swimming ace, Hodge, won two golds and a silver at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, said she was proud to add the OAM to her resume.

“”I’m extremely honoured to have OAM next to my name,” Parker said.

Hodge said he was humbled to have been presented with the award.

“When I look at the other awardees of the OAM it is incredible to see their achievements. Besides the athletes, there are people have contributed to society socially, people who have excelled in science. There are so many great people who’ve been acknowledged, it is humbling to be among them.”