Timeline - Paralympics

1976

Our stories

196 athletes from 16 countries competed in the first winter Paralympics in Örnsköldsvik. Australia’s only participant was Ron Finneran.

Australia at the Örnsköldsvik Winter Paralympics 1976

"By all means put your name down."

Ron Finneran talks about the very informal selection process for the 1976 winter Paralympics.

Ron Finneran carried the Australian flag at the opening ceremony of the first winter Paralympics

"I was told: 'You're not going anywhere boyo.'"

Ron Finneran on his response when told he couldn’t compete in Ornskoldsvik.

1980

An historic moment, full of anticipation

A contrast for Finneran, who was alone four years before

"I just put my name down as a manager or whatever you call it."

Ron Finneran talks about the role of Chef de Mission

Geilo 1980 Winter Paralympics - Kjell Blomgvist, Kyrra Grunnsund and Ron Finneran

Time for a photo before Grunnsund starts his alpine events

1984

Australian Team, Innsbruck Winter Games

Australian Team leader Ron Finneran at the 1984 Innsbruck Winter Paralympics

GALLERY: Portraits of the Australian Team

1988

Not just sport, there were other stories as well

1990

The foundation of the Australian Paralympic Federation

1992

Australian Team, Albertville Winter Paralympics

1992 Albertville Paralympic Winter Games, Australian athlete Rod Hacon and his family in front of the Paralympic Cauldron

Rod Hacon’s family came to cheer him on

1993

The Sydney bid process was politically difficult

The 1993 APF annual report hinted at the stress of the previous 18 months

On 12 September 1993, the bidding nations for the 2000 summer Paralypics made their final presentations to the International Paralympic Committee in Berlin. Australia was represented in berlin by this team: (L to R) Paul Griffiths, George Dunstan, Adrienne Smith, Bob Elphinston, Marie Little, Brendan Burkett (back), Ron Finneran, Unknown, Paul Bird, Anne Green.

The final pitch for Paralympics was two weeks before the Olympic decision

"They will underwrite the Sydney 2000 Games."

Ron Finneran on the assurance that got Australia’s bid over the line.

1994

All dressed up and an opening ceremony to attend

2006