Supporting the 2026 Australian Deaf Games

First held in the summer of 1965, the Australian Deaf Games is a premier multi-sport event for Deaf athletes, featuring 17 sporting categories and attracting more than 1,300 participants from across Australia and abroad.

With financial support from the Deaf Lottery, Deaf Connect is proud to be the Principal Games Sponsor of the 2026 Australian Deaf Games!

This year, one of the Deaf athletes competing is 63-year-old lawn bowler, David Ravlich.

David has been involved in the Games for over 40 years. He recently shared why this event is important to Australia’s Deaf community.

“The first time I played in the Games is when they were held in Sydney in the summer of 1979. I was 16 years old and started off playing cricket – representing Western Australia. Over the next few Games, I competed in athletics, basketball and am now competing in lawn bowls for 2026.

Before I could play, I still watched the Games with my family. I grew up in Western Australia, but because ADG is held all over Australia, I remember travelling to Brisbane for it in 1973. We caught trains from Perth to Sydney and Sydney to Brisbane to get there! It was fabulous journey, there were so many Deaf people on board. 

I think the Australian Deaf Games are important in keeping the Deaf community connected. It’s where we can compete as Deaf people, be part of a team, and celebrate our Deaf identity. That’s what keeps us strong. 

I know times have changed a lot since I first started, but it’s still where we can show pride in representing our state and our community. 

It’s a chance for us to come together, chat, exchange culture and learn from each other. I know a lot of people who met their future spouse at the Australian Deaf Games! 

And it’s also a place where you can make lifelong friends, which is so important. Like with all friendships, some will fade, but some will last forever.” 

With your help, Deaf Connect can continue sponsoring important events like this, uniting Deaf athletes from across Australia. 

Thank you for helping support the 2026 Australian Deaf Games!