Qantas is giving Paralympic sport fans a unique role in the return journey of the Australian Paralympic Team from the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.
As proud partners of Paralympics Australia, Qantas will feature a depiction of the Australian Paralympic Team mascot on the side of the aircraft set to bring our Team home from Tokyo in September.
Lizzie the Lizard, the Australian Paralympic Team mascot since Sydney 2000, has been redesigned in a manga style by the Royal Australian Mint as part of the promotion.
Qantas is inviting the Australian public to vote for their favourite design on Instagram.
Four options were designed, with two heats across two weeks deciding the final two options. The winning design from tonight’s (9 March) final heat will be revealed at a launch event next month.
Votes can be cast via Qantas’ Instagram stories from 6pm AEDT tonight.
Paralympics Australia’s Chief Executive, Lynne Anderson, said the initiative was a fun way to celebrate the six-month countdown and boost awareness of the Australian Paralympic Team.
“We are absolutely thrilled with the news that our very own Lizzie will feature so prominently on a Qantas aircraft. Not only will fans be able to see Lizzie high in the sky wearing green and gold, but Qantas’ outstanding support will enable us to bring our Team home in style,” Anderson said.
“We’re loving Lizzie’s Japanese flair with her manga design, but importantly, we love seeing our sports represented well in the design.
“I have voted myself, and I cannot wait to see the next lot of designs and vote again as the poll continues. I encourage everyone to get involved, and we can’t wait to see Lizzie next to the iconic Qantas kangaroo later this year.”
Vibrant and spirited, Lizzie symbolises the Paralympic dream and the fire within. She represents energy, determination and motivation. A dedicated goal-setter and ‘in your face’ competitor, she’s a proud visionary who is firmly focussed on the future. A great mate to all, Lizzie is funny, friendly and cheeky.
By Sascha Ryner, Paralympics Australia
Posted: 09/03/2020