Paralympics CEO Applauded and Wished Well on Announcement of Departure

With the announced departure of Paralympics CEO, Lynne Anderson, Equestrian Australia CEO Darren Gocher has expressed his appreciation of the level of progress made possible in Para Equestrian under Lynne's guidance.

"We'd like to acknowledge the fantastic work Lynn has done during her time leading the Paralympics. Under her direction and guidance, Para-Equestrian has made wonderful progress and we are grateful for Lynn's efforts and dedication," said Darren.

Media release from Paralympics Australia:

After a stunning period of success in leading Paralympics Australia for the past six years,  Chief Executive Lynne Anderson has today announced her decision to depart her role at the end of this year.

“This role has been the most amazing privilege,” Anderson said. “It’s truly left its mark on me and given me so much more than I could ever have imagined.

"I’ve always said that once you witness our amazing Para-athletes live at an event you are hooked on the sport for life. I will always remain a passionate Paralympic supporter and advocate."
 
Before stepping, Anderson will continue to lead from the front as she prepares to join the Australian Paralympic Team in the Games Village in Tokyo next month.
 
"I am absolutely committed to seeing PA through the most difficult Games in our history,” she said.

“This means being there every step of the way with our staff and athletes, from planning and risk mitigation, through performance in Tokyo, recovery in quarantine and safely back to family and loved ones," she said.
 
Paralympics Australia President Jock O'Callaghan, said “Lynne has always been fiercely proud of the Paralympic movement she loyally represents. Today, on behalf of PA and everyone in the Paralympic family, we recognise the results of her passionate pursuit of better outcomes for Para athletes and for disability sport in Australia.
 
"Lynne has been instrumental in achieving greater parity in high performance funding for Para Sport, advancing new pathways and accessibility options for emerging talent and gaining a stronger voice for Para athletes across all levels of government and in the community. Lynne has built an athlete-centric culture at PA, engaging alumni current Para-athletes.”
 
“Lynne has garnered greater recognition and respect for the Paralympic movement in Australia, delivering a step change in investment from governments, corporates and broadcasters. Her legacy will be felt for many years to come.”
 
Internationally, Anderson has worked tirelessly in supporting the Paralympic movement in the Oceania region and with her peers across other leading Paralympic nations.
 
International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons said “As one of the Paralympic Movement’s most high profile female leaders she has been a role model for others within the Paralympic Movement, receiving numerous awards in recognition of her efforts.  From all at the IPC, we wish Lynne well for the future and thank her not only for her contribution to Paralympic sport in Australia but the wider Paralympic movement.”
 
Paralympics Australia has given careful consideration to CEO transition as part of ongoing business planning. Lynne will formally step down on 31 December, 2021.