Aussies rolling over able-bodied opposition

Jim Oastler reports that his Melbourne based Southern Cross Rollers were the first Australian wheelchair curling team to enter a state curling competition.

They competed in the Victorian Curling Association summer league, finishing 4th out of 12 teams; a great result over able-bodied opposition that they hope to build on as they approach their winter league play leading up to the 2011 Australian Nationals.

If the team continues its current progress they hope to be able to compete in the World Wheelchair Qualification round in 2012. The team relies on and thanks the Victorian Curling Association, Disabled Wintersports Australia, and Disabled Sport and Recreation for their on going support.

Curling down under gaining momentum

The wheelchair curling program at Melbourne's (Australia) Ice House in the Docklands is going frm strength to strength and organizer Jim Oastler is hoping to add two teams to the regular Monday evening league. The facility has ice all year round, so play will continue through the coming summer for the first time in Australia.

Friday December 3rd marks the International Day of People with a Disability and Melbourne will be hosting their 2010 Disability Sport and Recreation Festival 7am to 2 pm at Federation Square. Jim will be promoting wheelchair curling at the event. Details of the day's activities on this flier.