The legacy of sporting pioneer Kevin Coombs is not one to be forgotten as Australia's Paralympians journey to the streets of Paris for the 2024 Games.
Governor-General Sam Mostyn, acknowledging NAIDOC week, paid her respects to the life of Coombs, who passed away in October, 2023 at age 82.
"I think in this week, it's wonderful that we recognise his life and the enduring and wide ranging contribution he made to the Paralympic movement," she said ahead of Australia's Paralympics flag-bearers announcement on Friday.
Not only did Coombs compete at the inaugural Rome Games in 1960, the wheelchair basketballer would go to another four in green and gold.
Coombs was among 12 Australians who participated at the inaugural Paralympics, competing again in 1968, '72, '80 and '84.
Captain of the Australian team at his last Games, Coombs also carried the torch at the opening ceremony for the Sydney 2000 edition.
The Uncle Kevin Coombs Medal is awarded at the end of each Paralympics year to the Australian competitor who best personifies his spirit and determination.
He was awarded the medal of the Order of Australia in 1983, and last year was the first Paralympian ever to be officially honoured with the initials PLY after his name.
To date, 14 Aboriginal or Torres Straight Islanders have competed at the Paralympics under the Australian flag.
This year's uniforms feature 'The Journey' design by Indigenous artist Rheanna Lotter, the governor-general noted.
"I think he'd be proud if he looked at so much of the livery that the team is wearing ... to see that a Yuin woman designed the journey on the team's uniform," she said.
