Joshua selected for Australia for Arafura Games

Woy Woy Swim Club member Joshua Smith has been selected to represent Australia at the 2019 Arafura Games which get underway in Darwin from April 26.

Joshua has a disability and an appeal has been launched to ensure he and a guardian can safely attend the Games.

"Joshua is a 16-year-old para-athlete and has been chosen to represent Australia in swimming at the 2019 Arafura Games," said fundraiser coordinator Ms Katelyn Smith.

"Despite having a disability, Joshua loves to compete and strive for personal bests.

"He has represented NSW at school national swimming and athletics since he was 10 and is also a multinational medallist in 10-pin bowling.

"Due to having two siblings with high medical needs, Joshua's sports have taken a back step but not attending the Arafura Games for Josh will hurt him greatly.

"Attending the Games will help Joshua gain valuable international experience on his way to reaching his ultimate goal of making the Australian Paralympic Games swim team and to compete alongside his idol Timothy Hodge," Ms Smith said.

"Going up against 15 other countries will boost Joshua's confidence and provide a stepping stone on towards an international career."

Due to his disability Joshua is unable to attend the Games by himself.

"It will cost approximately $5000 for airfares, accommodation, uniform, associated fees and on ground transport.

"I launched this fundraiser with the hope that Joshua will get to live his dream.

"Enabling Joshua to participate in opportunities like this will have such a positive impact on his life," Ms Smith said.

Anyone wishing to donate to the cause can visit the Go Fund Me website and search 2019 Arafura Games Darwin.

SOURCE:

Website, 7 Mar 2019

Katelyn Smith, Blackwall