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Paralympic sport was a prominent feature when the outstanding achievements of media professionals and organisations were recognised at the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) Media Awards at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Wednesday.
A significant contributor to the Australian Paralympic movement, Margie McDonald was honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, highlighting her decades of dedication to amplifying the stories of Paralympic sport. McDonald joins a distinguished group of Australian media icons, with many past recipients in attendance to celebrate her remarkable career.
PA President Alison Creagh, who attended the ceremony, paid tribute to McDonald’s tireless efforts in covering Paralympic sport across 13 Summer and Winter Games dating back to Nagano 1998.
“Margie McDonald is a trailblazer in Australian sports journalism and an unwavering advocate for the Paralympic movement. Her commitment to telling the stories of our athletes with authenticity and respect has been instrumental in building the public’s understanding and appreciation of Paralympic sport,” Ms Creagh said.
“Margie’s well-deserved recognition is a testament to her passion for sport and her dedication to sharing the journeys of our incredible athletes. On behalf of Paralympics Australia, I congratulate Margie and express our deepest gratitude for her contribution.”
McDonald, who has spent 47 years in the media industry, conveyed her appreciation for the honour.
“I love sport—it’s as simple as that. I love the results, the people, the history, the stories. It’s always been an absolute privilege to watch it and write about it,” McDonald said.
“I never set out to be in the spotlight. I like to beaver away in the background, but to be recognised this way, for something I so enjoy doing, is very humbling.”
ASC Chair Kate Jenkins AO, who presented McDonald with the honour, acknowledged her outstanding contribution to sports journalism.
“Margie is a much-loved figure across sport, and her passion has never wavered,” Ms Jenkins said.
“The work of pioneers like Margie over many decades has left sport and the coverage of it in a better place for everyone.”
The 200-person event also celebrated several other individuals and organisations that have played a vital role in elevating the profile of Paralympic sport.
Paralympian Ellie Cole was awarded the inaugural Rising Star Award for her impressive transition from elite athlete to sports broadcaster. Cole has become a trusted voice for the Nine Network, providing insightful commentary from the hosting desk, in the commentary box, and poolside at major events.
PA Chief Executive Cameron Murray highlighted Cole’s impact on sports media.
“Ellie’s transition from Paralympic champion to media professional has been remarkable. She brings her unique experiences, vast knowledge and personality to sports broadcasting and it’s fantastic to see her making such a significant mark in this industry,” Mr Murray said.
“We congratulate Ellie on this well-earned recognition and look forward to seeing her continue to thrive as a leading voice in sports media in this country.”
Paralympian Elizabeth Wright was also acknowledged for her exceptional work in sports journalism at the ABC, receiving recognition for her reporting on sport for people with disability. Wright’s contributions have helped further the conversation around inclusive sport and brought greater visibility to the achievements of Para-athletes at all levels.
Ms Creagh commended Wright’s impact in the media landscape.
“Elizabeth Wright has been a powerful voice in ensuring that athletes with disability receive the recognition and coverage they deserve. Her work at the ABC has helped shape important conversations around inclusion and representation in sport,” Ms Creagh said.
The evening also saw two of Australia’s major media organisations, Nine Entertainment and News Corp, jointly recognised for their comprehensive coverage of the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games. Both organisations have played a pivotal role in bringing Paralympic sport to wider audiences, showcasing the achievements of Australia’s athletes on the world stage.
“Paralympics Australia has worked closely with both Nine and News Corp to tell the incredible stories of our Paralympians,” Mr Murray said.
“Their commitment to high-quality coverage and their investment in sharing the journeys of our athletes has helped transform the way Australians engage with the Paralympic Games. We congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.”
For the first time, sport documentaries were given their own category at the ASC Media Awards. Forged In Steel, a documentary about the Australian Steelers Wheelchair Rugby Team, was recognised as a finalist. Produced by Nine, Paralympics Australia and Good Shout, the film provided an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at one of Australia’s most dominant Paralympic teams. The category was ultimately won by SBS’s Came from Nowhere, which chronicled the rise of the A-League’s Western Sydney Wanderers.
PA congratulates all the award winners and finalists at the ASC Media Awards, including those who contributed to the advancement of media coverage for Paralympic sport. PA also extends its thanks to the Australian Sports Commission for hosting the awards.
Tim Mannion, Paralympics Australia.
Published 21 February, 2025.
