A Redcliffe War Memorial Pool swimmer has been selected to represent Queensland at the Special Olympics National Games 2026, marking a major milestone after battling a life changing lung condition and overcoming a fear of water just four years ago.
Now, Anthony Williams is training in the pool four times a week, for two hours each day with the support of his community. To commemorate the start of his journey to the games, he has raced against Redcliffe’s resident Olympian and Venue Manager, Kylie Palmer OAM.
The Australian Special Olympics will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026 and draw over 200 athletes from 11 sports, with 60 volunteers in attendance from Queensland.
Anthony’s selection reflects both his personal determination and the role inclusive aquatic programs play in improving health and wellbeing outcomes.
A journey from fear to national competition
Four years ago, Anthony avoided the water due to a lung condition that impacted his confidence and fitness.
“Coming from being frightened of water to racing a true athlete like Kylie Palmer has been my most memorable achievement and something I will never forget,” said Anthony.
“I originally started out as a ten-pin bowler and was struggling with my lung condition. I started working with my coach who suggested I try swimming to help with my fitness and I bravely jumped into the pool.
“Since then, I haven’t let my condition hold me back.”
Backed by Redcliffe’s volunteers, swimmers and Head Coach, Terry Bourke, Anthony is taking his capability and fitness to new heights.
OAM Kylie Palmer, Olympian and Venue Manager said:
“Watching Anthony come so far in his swimming has been amazing. All the Special Olympians that train at Redcliffe are incredible – we currently support 25 regulars from the upper squads of Moreton North division. Our Redcliffe team members and the Special Olympian swimmers are like family.”
As part of his training, Anthony takes part in one hour of one-to-one with his coach Terry and one hour in group training, partaking in a mixture of drills to help with stroke and endurance.
“The friendships and the mentoring I receive from the coaches and athletes is inspiring to me. It’s given me opportunities I never thought I would have.”
Inclusive aquatics creating stronger communities
The Special Olympics Moreton North team have also held an inclusive swimathon in June, in which they swam over 100km and received a donation of $1000 from local Redcliffe MP, Kerri-Anne Dooley.
Redcliffe War Memorial Pool and Belgravia Leisure are committed to supporting all abilities in the community to connect and thrive through inclusive aquatics programs, so no one misses out.
To learn more about Redcliffe War Memorial Pool, visit here. Learn more about Belgravia Leisure’s commitment to social inclusion here.
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