This month the Complete Parts and @ The Coalface $500 Community Gift goes to Special Olympics Mackay Fire. More than just a sports club, it is a movement dedicated to providing year-round training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The club ensures that athletes have ongoing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a vibrant community of support and inclusion.

With a diverse range of sports on offer, Special Olympics Mackay Fire currently provides basketball, including Unified Basketball, bocce, powerlifting, table tennis, and ten-pin bowling. In a unique collaboration with Kung Fu Wushu Queensland, the club also delivers Virtual Kung Fu Form and Tai Chi weekly via TEAMS. Looking ahead, Mackay Fire is working to introduce junior football (soccer) for athletes aged 8 to 12 years, promoting both mental and physical wellness.

“Special Olympics is the greatest social movement in the world; however, Special Olympics Mackay Fire goes beyond that,” says Kimberly Doyle, club leadership mentor and club coach.

“Many of our athletes cannot attend events without support and our volunteers work tirelessly to raise money to cover expenses so that athletes can compete at local, regional and national levels.”

Athlete leadership is a core component of Mackay Fire, with five athletes actively involved in decision-making as part of the club leadership team.

Many also step into assistant coaching roles, supporting grassroots programs and mentoring fellow athletes. Fundraising is another avenue where athletes take an active role, helping to promote ability and engage with the wider community.

“Through our club, athletes are limitless. They are supported by an incredible team of volunteers during weekly training, competitions, and when travelling to new opportunities.”

A recent highlight was the CALL PUSH SHOCK workshop, which equipped athletes with life-saving skills in emergency response and was delivered by local organisation, First Aid Advantage.

Despite its success, Special Olympics Mackay Fire faces ongoing challenges, particularly in funding and access to venues. The club receives no government funding, relying on community fundraising efforts to provide resources, travel support and sporting opportunities.

“Securing venues is always a challenge,” Kimberly explains.

“While we have confirmed locations for 2025, greater access to an indoor basketball stadium and undercover bocce court would provide year-round availability.”

The community can support Special Olympics Mackay Fire in various ways, from volunteering as coaches, team leaders, or event organisers to supporting fundraising initiatives such as the Containers for Change program.

Special Olympics Mackay Fire also works to foster inclusion beyond Mackay. The club hosted ten-pin bowling, table tennis, basketball, and bocce at the North Queensland Games in Cairns to raise awareness and encourage greater participation. In December 2024, athletes and coaches hosted a Come and Try session in Townsville, helping to initiate discussions about establishing a Special Olympics club there.

Special Olympics is more than just the joy of sport, it is about inclusivity, empowerment and changing lives.

For those looking to support the club, upcoming events include a Cent Sale at Mackay’s Wests Leagues Club on Sunday, April 13. Tables can be booked by calling Wests Leagues Club on 4959 2480. More information on events, competitions, and training schedules can be found on the Special Olympics Mackay Fire Facebook page. To get involved, contact Kimberly Doyle via email at: mackay.mentor@specialolympics.com.au

For many athletes, the experiences and friendships they gain through Special Olympics are invaluable. Athlete representatives shared their reflections on what Mackay Fire means to them. “Last year we did lots of travel to all different places. We got lots of trophies, and it was lots of fun,” Annie. “Last year Mackay Fire supported me to achieve my goals,” Dale. “I love playing sport and making new friends,” Krista. “I am really looking forward to 2025 and all the things we can do together, and I am looking forward to learning more skills to help me in my life,” Luke. “Thank you, Special Olympics Mackay Fire, for the opportunities to participate in 2024, it was a great year,” Tracey.