A Cairns man who was left paralysed after a skydiving accident is turning his life around by launching new sports clubs aimed at forging a path to the Paralympics for disabled athletes.
From Tragedy to Triumph
John Smith, 34, suffered a spinal cord injury during a routine skydive in 2018 when his parachute malfunctioned, leaving him with permanent paralysis from the waist down. Rather than letting the accident define him, Smith has dedicated his life to helping others with disabilities find purpose through sport.
"I remember lying in hospital thinking my life was over," Smith said. "But I soon realised that while my legs might not work, my spirit was stronger than ever. I wanted to create opportunities for others like me."
New Clubs for Wheelchair Sports
Smith has founded two new clubs in Cairns: the Far North Queensland Wheelchair Rugby Club and the Cairns Para-Athletics Club. These clubs will provide coaching, equipment, and competition pathways for athletes with physical disabilities.
"Wheelchair rugby is incredibly intense and empowering," Smith explained. "And para-athletics offers a range of events from track to field. Our goal is to identify talent and nurture it all the way to the Paralympic Games."
Community Support
The clubs have received strong backing from local businesses and the Cairns Regional Council, which has provided funding for specialised wheelchairs and training facilities. Smith is also working with Paralympics Australia to ensure athletes have access to high-performance coaching.
"The support has been overwhelming," Smith said. "People want to see these clubs succeed because they know the transformative power of sport."
Personal Journey
Smith’s own journey back to fitness was arduous. He spent months in rehabilitation, learning to adapt to his new reality. It was during this time that he discovered wheelchair sports and realised their potential to change lives.
"Sport gave me a reason to get out of bed every morning," he reflected. "It gave me goals, a community, and a sense of purpose. I want to pass that on."
Looking Ahead
The clubs are already attracting interest from potential athletes, including teenagers who have recently become disabled. Smith hopes to see his first Paralympian within the next four years.
"We have some incredibly talented individuals here in Far North Queensland," he said. "With the right support, I believe they can compete on the world stage."
Smith’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of community. His clubs are not just about sport; they are about rebuilding lives and creating a legacy of inclusion and achievement.
