community, having recently become involved in his first Australian Deaf Games.

Siyu, 21, of Birkdale, was team manager for two Queensland netball teams at the competition with one team Electrify, bringing home the gold medal and netball shield.

Siyu worked both as a manager and volunteer and described it as a

“different but exciting experience”.

“It gave me an insight into how important it is to have volunteers to ensure that teams compete at their best and events run smoothly.

“I feel privileged to contribute my efforts into the games and being part of the winning team,” he said.

“This is an inspirational example which shows that disability does not stop us from achieving our goals.”

Australian Deaf Games veterans Peter and Kathy Best, aged 59 and 51,

continued a long association with the games, with Kathy

working as team manager for the Queensland Women’s 8-ball pool and Peter playing for Queensland winning third place.

Kathy said she was first involved in 1973/1974 as a 10-pin bowler, later

competing in 1976/1977 (Adelaide), 1979/1980 (Sydney) and 1982/1983 (Melbourne).

She has also been involved in the darts competition (Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide and Canberra).

Peter has also played cricket as wicket keeper (Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Hobart).

“I love to attend the games where I get to see all my friends who all

play different sports,” Kathy said.

The games were held on the Gold Coast in early January and provide an opportunity for hearing impaired sports people to compete and develop their sporting prowess.

Some of these athletes are represented at the Paralympics and in mainstream events.

CAPTION: INSPIRED by the Australian Deaf Games are (from left) Peter Best, who came third in the 8-ball pool; Rebecca Clegg who competed in Blaze Netball; Kathy Best, the 8-ball team manager; and Soyu Gao manager of the netball team which won gold. Photo by Sally Walker-Brown