ANNUAL REPORT 2006 AUSTRALIAN WEIGHTLIFTING FEDERATION INC

Transcription

1 ANNUAL REPORT 2006 AUSTRALIAN WEIGHTLIFTING FEDERATION INC

2 MISSION STATEMENT To promote and develop the sport of Weightlifting in Australia at all levels of participation

3 AUSTRALIAN WEIGHTLIFTING FEDERATION INC ABN Affiliated with International Weightlifting Federation, Commonwealth Weightlifting Federation, Oceania Weightlifting Federation Member of Australian Olympic Committee, Australian Commonwealth Games Association BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Sam Coffa AM, JP Directors Ralph Cashman OAM Ian Moir George Hardiman Boris Kayser Michael Keelan Lyn Jones Bob Pavone Simon Heffernan Chief Executive Officer Matthew Curtain PO Box 7 Hawthorn VIC 3122 AUSTRALIA Tel: Fax: info@awf.com.au Internet: NATIONAL COMMITTEES High Performance National Selectors Finance Coach Development Athletes Committee Record Keeper Ralph Cashman (Chair), Lyn Jones, Michael Keelan, Angela Wydall, Luke Borreggine, Jacquie White Ralph Cashman (Chair), Sam Coffa, Ian Moir, Pedro Sanchez, Luke Borreggine Sam Coffa (Chair), Ralph Cashman, George Hardiman Michael Keelan, Lyn Jones Simon Heffernan (Chair), Jacquie White, Damon Kelly, Amanda Phillips, Nadeene Latif, Nicole Sawon, Shane Gates, Danielle Waller, Michael Pileggi, Ben Mulder, Rebecca Rush, Michael Klinkert Kylie Booth

4 REPORT PRESIDENT As you would have expected the six months leading to the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games were completely and utterly devoted to the Games which coupled with the previous period in which the Federation spent an enormous time and effort with the Governance and Administrative Review one must say it has been a very busy and arduous time. I report also that at the time of writing this report the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) investigation was, according to advise received, in its final stages and its conclusions, findings and report will be presented to the ASADA Board soon after. Needless to say the AWF will be waiting and watching with intense interest on the outcome which will have enormous implication in the future of the Federation and the Sport. Currently, as you well know, the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) suspended the funding to the AWF due to concerns regarding compliance, finance and governance and whilst these concerns have been discussed with the ASC and to our understanding such concerns have been addressed and clarified, we are advised that the ASC will await the outcomes of the ASADA investigation before progressing all matters which of course includes any reinstatement of funding. The ASADA investigation which was announced one day before the Opening Ceremony of the M2006 Commonwealth Games has now been going on for over eight months during which time the Sport and the Federation has been absolutely drained and strangled and left to deal with the financial shortfalls the best way it can. The situation is critical as left without resource the responsibility has fallen on my personal shoulders and there is a limit to what I can do or for that matter how long I can sustain this support. At an earlier time it was reported to you by the CEO that the AWF met with representatives of the ASC to go through and discuss additional items of concern. A list of such items was made up and item by item we have gone through the process of progress and/or finalisation. The intent being that as a result of this exercise some relief funding might have been released. As stated above, even though most of the identified item have been completed or progressed to an acceptable level, the ASC will not release any funding. The AWF is in its first year of the restructuring process following the governance review and we are still evaluating some of the issues so that a review can take place. The establishment of programs necessary to ensure a strong structured and well planned growth has to occur. Development and implementation of long term effective strategic planning is another of our priorities as well as overcoming the shortage of manpower and financial resources. The appointment of Matthew Curtain as CEO has meant that the AWF office is now properly managed and importantly the lines of communication with our constituents have been reestablished. The AWF Website has been regenerated and the financial affairs have been formalised. A lot more needs to be done and a number of Directors have made some very good suggestions essentially focusing on a radical review of the AWF's directions, priorities and fundamental planning - a new pathway to the future.

5 One of the elements we can and must be proud of is the success we achieved at the M2006 Games. The AWF through the High Performance Program identified this, rightly or wrongly, as being pivotal to our future. We appropriated adequate funding for the program and spent many hours agonising on issues like selection criteria, athlete agreement, anti-doping matters and others. The success achieved was applauded by all and we must pay tribute to the team membership, the coaches, specially the Head Coach, and the general Management Team It was not unusual for the AWF to receive criticism; however, our strong stand was vindicated at the end. It remains for us all to look to the future, to work together as a team, and to look critically at ourselves and act rather than react to the issues confronting us. We are currently experiencing a difficult time but I believe that with the good will of the people we will prevail and take the Sport forward. On behalf of the Federation I would like to express our thanks to the Australian Sports Commission, the Australian Commonwealth Games Association, the Australian Olympic Committee and our Continental and International authorities namely the Oceania Weightlifting Federation and the International Weightlifting Federation for the financial and material support we have received. Our highest priority remains the procurement of a principal National Sponsor. Sponsorship has become a very difficult item made even more difficult by the hosting of the home Olympics and Commonwealth Games in the space of six years. The market place is resisting and sports like ours find it almost impossible to break through. But, break through we must as we need the additional resources to place our administration in a sound and viable base. I conclude this report by thanking the Board Directors and all the members of the various Committees and Programs for their contribution and support. My special thanks and congratulations to all the athletes, coaches, Technical Officials and State Officials for the success achieved and the work done throughout the period under review. I offer my personal thanks to Matthew Curtain, Luke Borreggine, Boris Kayser, Ian Moir and Ralph Cashman for their additional personal assistance and support. Sam Coffa AM, JP President

6 REPORT CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Preamble I report on the activities of the Australian Weightlifting Federation (AWF) from the last twelve months having returned to office in April 2006; after completing my secondment tenure at the M2006 Commonwealth Games Corporation (M2006) as its Competition Manager, Weightlifting. Since the last Annual General Meeting in December 2005 the AWF Secretariat has continued to provide support to its members while coordinating and administrating the affairs and activities of the Federation at National and International level. Indeed, was a period of extreme diversity: from the unparalleled success of our team at the XVIII Commonwealth Games, winning 10 medals (including 4 Gold) to the adverse and damaging publicity during the ASADA investigation into allegations of possible doping violations linked to the Federation. The AWF acknowledges that in preparation for the Commonwealth Games a range of key tasks and responsibilities were completed in a less than satisfactory manner or timeframe. These included the completion of the audited financial statements, selection policies and communication to members and other major stakeholders. Despite these unpleasant factors to which the AWF takes full responsibility, I am pleased to report that notwithstanding the suspension of Government funding, the AWF is well on the way to restoring a level of service expected of a National Sporting Organisation. Specifically, through the appointment of new Directors and Officers to the Executive Board and Committees in 2006, active progress can be noted in the program areas of the Athletes Committee, High Performance and Coach Development. The AWF website ( is also back in operation with invaluable documents now readily available to members. These include the outcome of decisions made at Board meetings and financial summaries. Indeed, this tool has become an integral part of the daily communications process with members. And while other areas of the strategic and operational plan continue to need development and formalisation (e.g. athlete /team official selection policy, mass participation and sponsorship); the AWF believes its instrument of governance is working effectively, acknowledging however that its operation can always be improved. Board of Directors A great deal of work continues to be carried out by the Board of Directors, all of whom act in an honorary capacity. In 2006, as a result of a vacancy and Board restructuring, the AWF welcomed back past members Lyn Jones & Michael Keelan. Both of whom are experts in the field of corporate governance and coach education. Pursuant to the election of the AWF Athletes Committee in September, Simon Heffernan was appointed to the Board in accordance with article 9.4 of the AWF constitution.

7 As per article 9.3 of the AWF constitution, the Board of Directors is as follows: President Sam Coffa AM, JP * elected December 2004 Director Ralph Cashman OAM * elected December 2004 Director Ian Moir * elected December 2004 Director George Hardiman * elected December 2004 Director Bob Pavone * appointed December 2005 Director Lyn Jones * appointed 10 June 2006 Director Michael Keelan * appointed 31 July 2006 Director Boris Kayser * re-appointed 31 July 2006 Director Simon Heffernan * elected by Athletes Comm in Sep 06 Resignations Director Jack Walls * Resigned December 2005 Director Andrew Forrest * Resigned December 2005 Director Natasha Barker * Resigned December 2005 Director Gino Lilli * Appointment finished, 31 July 2006 Director Michael Klinkert * Resigned September 2006 Board Meeting Attendance as at 31 October 2006 President Sam Coffa AM, JP 4/4 Director Ralph Cashman OAM 3/4 Director Ian Moir 4/4 Director Bob Pavone 4/4 Director George Hardiman 3/4 Director Lyn Jones 3/3 Director Boris Kayser 2/4 Director Simon Heffernan 1/1 Director Michael Keelan 0/2 Director Gino Lilli 2/2 Director Michael Klinkert 1/2 Staff Administratively, the operations of the AWF Secretariat have increased dramatically in recent months due directly to the completion of tenure of 75% of the staff since the XVIII Commonwealth Games. Chief Executive Officer Matthew Curtain VIC High Performance Manager Dr. Peter Cayley VIC National Coach Luke Borreggine NSW Junior National Coach Sevdalin Marinov VIC o Matthew Curtain recommenced on 1 April 2006 after completing his secondment tenure at the M2006 Commonwealth Games. o Peter Cayley finished as at 31 March o Luke Borreggine & Sevdalin Marinov finished as at 30 June 2006.

8 In the absence of a High Performance Manager and National Coaches; I thank the newly appointed High Performance Management Committee (HPMC) for its enthusiastic attitude towards the immediate development of policies such as the formalisation of the XXIX Olympic Games nomination criteria and athlete/team official selection criteria. Australian Sports Commission On 5 April 2006, the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) Board suspended grant funding to the AWF until a number of matters are resolved to its satisfaction. These matters include a comprehensive review of the AWF s financial position inclusive of the development of an achievable recovery plan and evidence that the AWF had met its statutory obligations under the Associations Incorporations Act 1981 (Victoria). The correspondence also stated that a number of other matters had to be resolved to the satisfaction of the ASC before funding can be released. These include governance and anti doping to which the ASC would await the outcome of the ASADA investigation before progressing with these matters. Despite the above; the AWF recorded an operating profit of approximately $51,000 for In , the ASC continued to be the AWF s major financial stakeholder. The ASC approved the allocation of High Performance funding of $359,000, of which $89,750 was received for the July September 2005 period as well as the direct payment by the ASC of approximately $64,000 of Direct Athlete Support (DAS) to those members associated with M2006 Commonwealth Games team. However, the AWF continues to seek action on the status of correspondence, whereby the ASC resolved to pay pre-melbourne Commonwealth Games High Performance expenses direct to individuals / organizations upon production of substantiated and verified invoices. And while payments have been made to the majority, there are still some outstanding issues to be resolved. In July 2006; the AWF met with the ASC to discuss the Federation s core business viability, with the expectation that some relief funding would be restored notwithstanding the outcome of the ASADA investigation. The AWF committed to completing a range of governance and administrative duties within a mutually agreed timeframe. To this end, (as reported by the President) the AWF completed these tasks to the satisfaction of the Board, however, the matter of the reinstatement of funding remains subject to the completion of the ASADA investigation. Moving forward, I wish to welcome David Crocker, the ASC s new Sports Consultant responsible for Weightlifting and to acknowledge and thank Bob Kershaw for his independent contribution to our ongoing process of transparent governance. Australian Commonwealth Games Association In the absence of our normal revenue stream; the Australian Commonwealth Games Association funding via their two programs; Target 2006 and the Australian Junior

9 Commonwealth Games squad proved to be the pivotal factor in the Federation s financial survival throughout the last 12 months. In collaboration with the finance support from the ASC the Target 2006 program financially assisted athletes in relation to their quarterly Commonwealth Ranking. By way of summary; the program structure was as follows: Commonwealth Ranking No. Amount Per Annum Amount Per Quarter 1 $20,000 $5,000 2 $12,500 $3,125 3 $7,500 $1,875 4 $5,000 $1,250 5 $4,000 $1,000 6 $3,000 $750 7 $2,000 $500 8 $1,000 $250 The program also fully funded the National team at four training camps and a range of international competitions, including the 2005 Mermet Cup in Louisiana, USA and the 2005 Commonwealth & Oceania Championships held in Melbourne. With regard to the junior squad, the program aims to financially assist potential future Commonwealth Games representatives (by way of $3000 per athlete) to compete at events overseas so that they understand the conditions and environment. Members were selected and funded in 2006 to compete at the World Junior Championships held in Hangzhou, China and the Commonwealth & Oceania Championships held in Apia, Samoa. Australian Olympic Committee The Australian Olympic Committee once again financially committed itself to the AWF via its quadrennial funding in the qualification process in the lead up to the Olympic Games. The AWF was able to fully fund two athletes (one man & one woman) plus one team official for the World Senior Championships. The funding is based on $3,000 ex GST per participant. Finance As tabled in the audited financial statement, the AWF confirmed an operating profit of approximately $51,000 for This result is satisfactory, given the Federation had recorded operating losses for the last several years. As such, I thank the voluntary assistance provided by Dr. Peter Cayley in transferring our accounting practices over to MYOB.

10 Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games Whilst the Section Manager s report from the Commonwealth Games is tabled later in the annual report; I wish to place on record the appreciation of the AWF pursuant to the retirements of Yourik Sarkisian and Natasha Barker following the Games. Unfortunately Yourik did not perform up to expectation at the Commonwealth Games. However, his athletic record spanning over three decades is without doubt unsurpassed. While representing the Soviet Union and later Armenia Yourik won Silver at the Olympic Games in 1980 and was many times World Champion, both at junior and senior level. Additionally, he broke a remarkable 23 world records during his career and was voted by the International Weightlifting Federation in 2000 as the 16th greatest weightlifter of all time. For Australia, Yourik competed at the Atlanta Games (placing 7th) and Sydney Games (placing 9th) and won six medals at the Commonwealth Games (1998 & 2002) including triple Gold in Manchester. Natasha Barker competed at the Olympic Games in Sydney (placing 10th); and lifted at two Commonwealth Games (2002 & 2006), winning four medals (3 Silver & 1 Bronze). As past leader of the AWF Athletes Committee and current member of the AOC Athletes Commission; Natasha has been a role model for all competitors for over a decade, displaying professional conduct and sportsmanship on and off the platform. On behalf of the AWF, I wish to congratulate and thank these athletes for their selfless contribution, passion, devotion to the sport and trust they will be forever part of the Weightlifting family. From the perspective of Competition Management; I wish to acknowledge the guidance and support displayed by the International Weightlifting Federation and the Oceania Weightlifting Federation during my time at the M2006. Specifically, I offer my sincere appreciation to the Technical Delegates; Dr. Tamás Aján & Sam Coffa and OWF General Secretary Paul Coffa. Much has already been reported on the successful delivery of the event in terms of the presentation, equipment, venue, facilities and overall management for the Games and while the Competition Management team has been credited with much of the achievement I wish to state on record; that a student is only as good as his/her teacher. Without their collective vision and wisdom I doubt such a memorable success would have been possible. Furthermore, I offer my special thanks to Frank Falcone, Peter Ikosidekas, Paul Tsrios, Peter Mancuso, the 57 technical officials and the 53 sport specific volunteers on making M2006 one of the greatest sporting events in history. Australian Sports Anti Doping Authority As a result of four adverse findings in 2005 including the allegation of drug trafficking by a member of the National team, the newly formed Australian Sports Anti Doping Authority

11 launched an independent inquiry into the Australian Weightlifting Federation in March 2006 with respect to the following: o The positive drug tests for benzylpiperazine (BZP) by four Australian Weightlifters in October 2005; o The allegations that these positive test results came from contaminated supplements; o The allegations that the relevant supplements were provided by Belinda Van Tienen; o The connections between Belinda Van Tienen, the four weightlifters with positive BZP tests, the companies that manufactured, sold or distributed the allegedly contaminated supplements, and other individuals in the Australian Weightlifting community; o The chain of supply of BZP. o Any other alleged anti-doping rule violations involving the AWF. In accordance with ASADA s terms of reference; the AWF has been cooperative with its inquiry and is confident no link will be confirmed in relation to the Federation s knowledge or involvement with this matter. As I reported in 2004; our Anti Doping Committee; lead by Board Members Ian Moir (Chair), Sam Coffa & Boris Kayser, continues to be the advocate of the program within the Federation and as such; I urge those athletes listed on the registered testing pool (RTP) to continue to complete whereabouts and TUE/ATUE forms in a timely and correct manner. International Competitions Over the last 12 months our Weightlifters have competed, with distinction in numerous international competitions including the XVIII Commonwealth Games, World Junior Championships, World University Championships, World Masters Championships, Commonwealth & Oceania Championships and the World Senior Championships. Of note I wish to highlight the performance of Damon Kelly, a self funded participant at the World University Championships on winning a Bronze and Silver medal in the +105kg category and the self funded women s team on winning 4 Gold & 1 Silver medal at the World Masters Championships in France. Future International Events Looking forward, the AWF has begun preparation for the Arafura Games to be held in Darwin during May After the success of the 2005 edition, next year s event will also incorporate the Commonwealth & Oceania Junior Championships to which the NT Weightlifting Association is expecting nations to participate. With regard to the 2009 World Masters Games (incorporating the World Masters Championships) to be held in Sydney, the NSW Weightlifting Association have been confirmed as the responsible Organising Committee. As such; its Executive Board is currently being determined. Conclusion As another year draws to a close, I acknowledge and thank the AWF Board, National Coaches, Athletes Committee, Bob Kershaw (ASC) and Perry Crosswhite (ACGA) for their collective support through an extremely busy period in time.

12 The AWF is committed to fulfilling its mission statement to promote and develop the sport of Weightlifting in Australia at all levels of participation however I remain convinced this can only be achieved through in the inclusion rather than the exclusion of its constituent members. Therefore, I urge all members to provide constructive feedback and comment in order for the AWF to remain a transparent governing organisation. Indeed, it is important, if not vital for the Board and its Officers to be constantly reviewed and accountable to its membership. This can only be achieved however, via a two way channel of clear and concise communication. Matthew Curtain Chief Executive Officer His Royal Highness, Prince Edward along with IWF President, Dr. Tamás Aján, AWF President, Sam Coffa and M2006 Competition Manager, Matthew Curtain

13 REPORT HIGH PERFORMANCE I submit this report as chairman of the newly appointed HPM committee and on behalf of the previous HPM committee. Throughout 2005 and in the early months of 2006 leading up to the Melbourne Commonwealth Games, the HPM committee carried out its designated functions, with the principle focus being the preparation of the Commonwealth Games team, with an end objective of achieving a creditable result in terms of medals won. The preparation programme embodied a number of specific commitments: a) a financial incentive/rewards scheme based on relative standings/rankings against the other Commonwealth countries, reviewed on a quarterly basis b) a schedule of International competitions and training camps c) qualifying standards and selection criteria The overall criteria established set a quite high standard for team selection. The programme and the criteria underwent some modifications, together with the accommodation of some athletes other commitments. The end result was that a reasonable programme of preparation was achieved. A final camp at the AIS for the whole team, immediately prior to moving into the Games Village, was a highly successful event, and established a strong basis for adoption of similar camps in the future. The camp included the assistance of a masseur and a doctor, which was highly beneficial to the team. The overall results of the Games team were ultimately highly commendable and a justification of the criteria and programmes set down in the objectives of the HPM programme. Notwithstanding some of the acknowledged problems experienced with the programme, 10 medals (4 Gold, 3 Silver & 3 Bronze) from an eventual 14 competing team members was a result not bettered by any previous Australian Commonwealth Games weightlifting team and ranks highly in terms of performances by any other Australian team sport. Four EAD athletes were included in the Games team, together with two coaches, resulting in an additional bronze medal. The preparation of this section of the team was not the responsibility of the HPM committee. A new HPM committee has been appointed by the Board comprising Lyn Jones, Mike Keelan, Angela Wydall, Luke Borreggine and myself, together with a member of the Athletes Committee to be appointed, and with an invited representative from the Australian Sports Commission and the Australian Commonwealth Games Association. However, due to constraints imposed by severe shortage of funds from the ASC and pending outcomes of matters with the ASC and ASADA investigation, a HPM programme following on from the 2006 Games has been seriously jeopardized. A programme focused on the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and the 2010 Commonwealth Games is yet to be finalized. An injection of funds in the near future will enable the immediate re-activation of programmes already drafted by the new HPM Committee.

14 It is a general view of the Board that some new approaches should be taken by the HPM panel that considers long term aims and objectives in the creation of high performance athlete programmes. To this end a draft proposal is under consideration by the HPM Committee which, when developed and if implemented, would see a long term strategy put in place to lay the foundations for future effective high performance programmes. Qualifying periods for 2007 together with the qualifying standards (as previously determined for ) have been finalized and circulated to all States and Territories. The HPM committee will be working closely with the relevant coaching, finance and support services committees in establishing a coordinated program for 2007 & I am indebted to the former members of the HPM Committee (Sam Coffa, Peter Cayley as High Performance Manager, National Coach Luke Borreggine, Perry Crosswhite ACGA and Bob Kershaw ASC) for their support and their expertise in the difficult but rewarding period of that Committee s operation. Ralph Cashman OAM Chairman Deborah Lovely Gold Medallist, XVIII Commonwealth Games

15 REPORT XVIII COMMONWEALTH GAMES AUSTRALIAN TEAM, M2006 COMMONWEALTH GAMES Athlete Category State Result Yourik Sarkisian 62kg VIC 8th Ben Turner 69kg QLD Gold Joel Wilson 69kg QLD 5th Aleksan Karapetyn 94kg VIC Gold Simon Heffernan 94kg VIC Silver Valerie Sarava 105kg NSW Silver Chris Rae +105kg SA Gold Damon Kelly +105kg QLD Silver Erika Yamasaki 48kg QLD Bronze Nadeene Latif 53kg NSW Bronze Natasha Barker 58kg NSW Bronze Jacquie White 58kg VIC DNF Belinda Van Tienen 69kg VIC Injured Amanda Phillips 69kg QLD 4th Deborah Lovely 75kg QLD Gold Team Officials Function State Ralph Cashman OAM Manager NSW Luke Borreggine Head Coach NSW Sevdalin Marinov Coach VIC Steve Tikkanen Coach NSW Michael Keelan Coach QLD Pre Games Preparation The full team came together for a 3 week camp at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) immediately prior to the Games. This proved to be a very good preparation period for all, following as it did a disturbing and disruptive period prior to and following the Selection Trials. Selection of the team was delayed and staged which caused much conjecture on and dissatisfaction with the system. I believe this process could be carried out better in the future. The whole episode was very unsettling for the team, but the camp provided an opportunity to remove the tensions, weld the team together and focus on our objectives. The regimes and training programmes established during the camp resulted in steady progress and improvement in performances. Regular team meetings and consultation with the athletes on all issues helped in establishing a good team rapport. It is possible that the team may not have performed as well as it did in the competition had it not been for the time spent at the AIS camp. As such, I wish to thank our National body for their work in the organisation of the camp, also to the AIS for its assistance Our sincere thanks must go to the Australian Sports Commission and the Australian Commonwealth Games Association for the tremendous financial support and personal encouragement given to Australian Weightlifting in preparing for these Games.

16 Team Preparation at the Games From the time of entering the village and throughout a large part of the competition, the team was subjected to heavy attention by the media, focused in particular on the pre-games drug cases, allegations regarding alleged involvement of one of the female athletes, allegations arising from alleged activities at the AIS camp, and announcements from ASADA of an investigation into the sport. Inquiries held subsequently cleared the sport and the individuals completely with regard to the involvement of the athlete and the AIS camp. Not that this reduced the media focus on the sport. It is an enormous credit to the team that it was able to ignore this attention as best it could, focus on its task and produce the results it did under this pressure. Further detailed medical investigation of the injury sustained by Belinda Van Tienen ultimately resulted in her being withdrawn from the competition on the advice of the Medical Team and Headquarters management. This was a very unfortunate matter for all concerned, but the situation was reviewed at length by the team management, and the advice was accepted in the best future interests of the athlete. Refer to item on Belinda Van Tienen. Competition Venue Weightlifting was held at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre, a venue ideal for a weightlifting competition and catering for an audience of around three thousand people. The venue was excellent from all perspectives. Warm up facilities were excellent with close and easy access to the competition platform. The venue was approximately 30 minute bus drive from the village, easily reached and with good access from the rear for athletes and officials. All facilities such as media conferences, testing, sauna, weigh-in, etc. were within easy reach. Good security was maintained throughout the competition. Facilities for the public were excellent, full houses were encountered for all sessions and the audiences were the most enthusiastic I have experienced. Training Venue The Mermet Weightlifting Centre in Hawthorn was the training venue, and as it is a purpose made centre for weightlifting and headquarters of the Victorian Weightlifting Association. Indeed, it was an excellent facility. Training times were well planned and no problems were experienced. Location was 30/45 minutes from village. Competition Organisation and management The whole weightlifting competition went smoothly without any problems or difficulties experienced. Matthew Curtain is an experienced and competent manager and great credit must be given to him for the excellent organisation of the Weightlifting event. Transport Transport to the training and competition venues was well organised, with good regular service. Buses were comfortable and air conditioned. No problems were experienced in travel to and from these venues. The only difficulty encountered was the provision of transport from the training venue to the competition venue. Athletes training and then wishing to go direct to the competition to watch the competition had no organised provision for doing this.

17 This however was overcome with the co-operation of Transport who organised vehicles when requested. All other transport needs were organised as and when required and vehicles and drivers were in plentiful supply. Drivers were very friendly and accommodating. Medical The Medical Team worked very hard and provided an excellent service whenever needed. The team had a number of injuries and these were dealt with promptly and efficiently. Requirements for scans or tests at hospitals were always dealt with to our complete satisfaction. Many of the team medal achievements were due in no small way to the skilful and proper attention given by the Medal Team. Our special thanks for the assistance given when one of the female athletes was injured and eventually withdrawn from the competition. Athletes Village The team was accommodated in the lower two levels of a new four level apartment building, the top two levels occupied by the Netball Team. Two apartments on each level with bedrooms containing two or three beds. The accommodation was excellent, and with the large lounge areas provided adequate space for team meetings and athlete relaxation. The main dining room was a huge area and provided excellent food, always well stocked with fresh fruit, drinks, etc. Hot and cold meals were available 24 hours a day. Athletes were very happy with this facility. The casual dining area provided an excellent alternative to the mass of the main dining. Belinda Van Tienen Two important issues involved Belinda both of which are reported here. Belinda was the subject of an enquiry by an independent body appointed by the AWF. As a result of allegations made concerning her alleged involvement in the doping cases which were investigated by the Court of Arbitration for Sport prior to the Games. She also suffered a major injury which eventually led to her being withdrawn from competition. Interviews took place at the AIS camp by the independent investigating body and a report was subsequently issued to the AWF which cleared her conclusively of the allegations. This was a tremendously traumatic experience for Belinda and put her under extreme pressure for some time. She was supported at all times by the team during this time. A nagging injury at the AIS caused the management to have it investigated by the medical people at the AIS, resulting in treatment at a Canberra hospital. Belinda was able to continue training. When the problem with the injury looked to becoming of concern, Belinda was given a 90% performance test to determine if she could continue. She passed this test satisfactorily. During this period consideration was given to the possible replacement with one of the reserves (including putting the coaches of the 2 reserves on notice). This was later determined to be not necessary however by the time this decision was reached final entries had been confirmed so no replacement could be made after this date. The injury worsened and management decided to have it more comprehensively investigated by the Headquarters Medical Team. After scans at a Melbourne hospital and extensive review by the medical team and team management, a recommendation by the medical team that she

18 not compete was endorsed by the Chef de Mission and Team Manager. This was reluctantly accepted by team management in the best interests of the athletes future. Needless to say, this additional strain placed on Belinda was enormous, yet she managed extremely well and she deserves great credit. The other athletes supported her well during this entire period. Summary The weightlifting competition of the Games, indeed the entire Games, was one of the most competently organised and managed that I have experienced. No problems of any significance were experienced which helped enormously in the overall management of the team. The results achieved by the team were excellent and reached our best forecast outcome, and was one of our best results at Commonwealth Games. Special credit must go to the coaches for the results achieved, especially the Head Coach Luke Borreggine. The coaching controls and decision making was of the highest order. The results achieved give testimony to the planning, decision making processes, problem solving and overall concern for the athlete s best interests achieved by the coaches and team management. The team won the Trafalgar Trophy, being the trophy for the best weightlifting team in the Commonwealth. This was one of our objectives and was extremely rewarding to achieve. Ralph Cashman OAM Section Manager, Weightlifting Aleksan Karapetyn Gold Medallist, XVIII Commonwealth Games

19 REPORT NATIONAL COACH I hereby report on the activity of the last 12 months in my role as National Coach. As I mentioned in my last annual report, for those of us who are committed to the AWF, the future of weightlifting is looming as a time whereby we can no longer give excuses but instead produce results. I would like to take this opportunity to summarize the last 12 months: Sydney Camp August 2005 This camp was not well attended as previously expected, but overall the majority of athletes that did attend benefited from a change of environment. Tasmania s president/coach Tony O Malley enjoyed the opportunity to experience a camp comprising of junior and senior athletes. Athletes from Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania were represented. Oceania & Commonwealth Championships 6-9 October 2005 (Training camp 30 Sept 10 Oct Melbourne) For this international event Australia fielded 2 full teams of both men and women (essentially comprising of the shadow team for the 2006 Commonwealth Games), with the exception of South Australian Max Dalsanto and Tasmanian Jenna Myers. This event was a curtain raiser for the Commonwealth Games in March 2006, equally for I and my coaching staff, to see at what stage the athletes were. Speaking of coaches this also enabled the AWF to appoint coaches, which enabled me to appoint 2 teams of 3 coaches for both men and female teams, and myself overseeing the lot. Out of 7 coaches appointed 2 where new to the national coaching system. All the coaches represented were from New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and the Northern Territory. Senior World Championships 9-21 November 2005 Qatar The AWF selectors chose to send only the best male and female weightlifters (on results achieved at the Oceania and Commonwealth Championships). The athletes selected were Deborah Lovely and Sergo Chakhoyan. Deborah Lovely lifted, in my opinion, very well snatching 94kg and C&J 115kg, totaling 209kg, to place 13th overall, considering that she was in preparation for the Commonwealth Games Selection Trials on December 17th 2005 and on track for the Commonwealth Games. Sergo Chakhoyan, on the other had tested positive to a banned stimulant and was removed from the Australian team a very bad and hurtful situation for our Commonwealth Games preparation as he was considered a near certainty to win gold in the 85kg class Commonwealth Games Training Camp 19 Feb 12 March 2006 AIS Canberra This training camp consisted of the selected team in preparation for the XVIII Commonwealth Games. The squad comprised of 7 women and 8 men, 5 officials (4 coaches and manager), team doctor and masseur.

20 The camp was conducted at the Australian Institute of Sport and driven by head coach Luke Borreggine. The daily routine commenced at 7.30am with two individual team walks, one under the guidance of coach Mike Keelan (3 to 4 people in the team walking at moderate to quick pace), the other team under the direction of Head Coach Luke Borreggine commencing at 7.45am, easier informal pace followed by a 10 minute stretching session, followed by breakfast. The team had 2 training sessions daily and 1 session on Saturday except for Thursday and Sunday (rest days). The daily training times were 1100hrs to 1230hrs and 1700hrs to 1900hrs. Meals were taken at the AIS at times designated by team management i.e. the team met and ate together. The standard of food was excellent and the menu varied daily. The training venue was well equipped with 10 platforms and weights sets. Training sessions were under the direction of the Head Coach in conjunction with individual athletes programs. Athletes were given the opportunity to demonstrate heavy lifting in the snatch and clean and jerk, in order for the coaching staff to assess what they were capable of achieving during the games times. The camp consisted of an athletes meeting conducted by the team manager Mr Ralph Cashman and Head Coach Luke Borreggine. Seminars on rehydration and nutrition were conducted by Dr Robert Mitchell and Top Nutrition Director Danny Chow Overall; the camp was a great success in preparation for the games from both an administrative and coaching perspective in producing the best outcome for the team. XVIII Commonwealth Games March 2006 Melbourne What games they were! Australian Weightlifting created history on and off the platform in a memorable event that will never be forgotten. I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate the words by our president Mr Sam Coffa in VIC LIFT edition no.36 I want to place on record my strong congratulations and appreciation for the work and dedication of our lifters and our management team. In particular I want to praise the work of the Head Coach, Luke Borreggine, who was uncompromising in his approach to the task he was entrusted with. His methods and strong attitude on the field of play was superb. All of his decisions were accurate and designed to bring about the successful outcome we all desired. This success, I must say was achieved despite the background of some bad publicity received during the Games which speaks volume for the resolve and dedication of our athletes, our coaches and our management team headed by Ralph Cashman. Fourteen athletes took to the platform and at the end of the day the haul of 10 medals, 4 Gold, 3 Silver and 3 Bronze was achieved. I wish to thank my coaching and managerial staff for all the support prior and during the games in achieving a great outcome.

21 In concluding my report, I wish to acknowledge the support and assistance of the AWF Directors. I especially acknowledge the friendship, guidance and support of Paul Coffa, Ralph Cashman, Matthew Curtain and Sam Coffa THANK YOU. Luke Borreggine National Coach Australian Weightlifting Team XVIII Commonwealth Games, Melbourne 2006

22 REPORT ANTI DOPING This report spans a period of change in the Australian sports anti doping landscape, covering, as it does, a time in which we have seen the establishment of the Australian Sports Anti Doping Authority (ASADA) to replace the Australian Sports Drug Agency (ASDA). The ASADA, incorporating the Australian Sports Drug Medical Advisory Committee (ASDMAC), was launched on 14 th March 2006 to continue the sample collection and testing functions of its predecessor, with the additional functions of anti doping policy development; investigation of anti doping rule violations; results management and reporting; and presenting cases to hearing bodies, such as the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Of great concern to the AWF this year were the four adverse analytical findings arising from the doping controls of the 2005 Commonwealth, Oceania and South Pacific Championships; and the 2005 National Open & U20 Championships; both conducted in the month of October In addition, and related to these adverse findings attributed to four Australian weightlifters, an allegation of supplying a prohibited substance to athletes was made against another Australian weightlifter. These events were cited by ASADA as the reasons for launching an investigation into Australian Weightlifting. Commencing in March 2006, this investigation continued beyond the 2005/06 year. While the AWF has not been advised of any findings arising from this investigation, we are confidant that its conclusions will confirm what we firmly believe: that there exists within Australian Weightlifting a strong anti-doping culture and that while there is always the possibility that individuals may make mistakes or wrong decisions, overall Australian Weightlifters are responsible, honest and clean athletes. Doping Control Summary 1 July June 2006 * Total Number of Tests 353 Competition tests 48 Out of competition tests 305 Tests on Australian lifters 337 Tests on Overseas lifters in Australia 16 Australian lifters tested 57 Negative results 349 Positive results 4 * Tests conducted at the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games are not included in this summary. Those tests were conducted on behalf of the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games Corporation and are not reported to the individual sports by ASADA. However, no positive results were reported from tests conducted on Australian Weightlifters at this event. Ian Moir Anti Doping Officer

23 REPORT TECHNICAL Since my appointment as AWF Technical Coordinator I have come to appreciate the depth, strength and standard of the Australian Technical Officials. We have in our midst some outstanding Officials including the Chairman of the International Weightlifting Federation Technical Committee, Sam Coffa, the doyen of World Speakers, Lyn Jones, and experienced Olympic, Commonwealth and World Championships Officials, like Max Ryan, Ralph Cashman, Karekin Simonian, Jenny Sanchez, Debbie Keelan, Debbie Smith, Ian Moir, Pedro Sanchez and others. Importantly, many changes and ideas have emanated from Australia including Olympic Games Technical changes. The introduction of a Jury Referees Monitoring System; the abolition of the 2.5Kg Rule; the Power of the Jury; the Interpretation of the Sequence of Lifting; the Roles and Responsibilities of the various Technical Officials have all had their genesis in our Country, and currently the prototype of an Electronic Change of Call System is being developed in Australia which system if and when adopted would revolutionize the conduct of competitions. I am very happy, indeed honored, to be involved and to serve the AWF as Technical Coordinator an important role which I find personally fulfilling. During 2006 Australia hosted the XVIII Commonwealth Games in Melbourne and Australian Technical Officials played a big part in this event. No less than 19 Australian Officials were appointed to officiate at this event. Promotions The AWF facilitated the examination and subsequent promotion from Category II to Category I of Julio Melo (CHI) a resident in Australia and Andy Baker (NZL). Pedro Sanchez AWF Technical Coordinator

24 Referees Statistics The two tables represent the number of Referees in Australia and from the tables one is left with the inevitable conclusion that: 1. There are not enough Women Referees, especially in the Categories I and II; 2. Some of the States/Territories have a very low number of Referees particularly in the ACT, NT and Tasmania. Table 1 Referees within Category and within States/Territories Category State Female Male Total ACT 1 1 NSW I QLD VIC WA 1 1 Sub Total NSW QLD II SA 3 3 TAS 1 1 VIC WA 1 1 Sub Total NSW NT 1 1 QLD National SA TAS 4 4 VIC WA Sub Total Total Table 2 Referees within States/Territories by Gender State Female Male Total ACT 1 1 NSW NT 1 1 QLD SA TAS 5 5 VIC WA Total

25 TECHNICAL OFFICIALS APPOINTMENTS 2006 XVIII Commonwealth Games, Australia Lilly Coffa Jury Member Debbie Smith Jury Member Chris Michaelopoulos Referee Ian Moir Referee Debra Keelan Referee Pedro Sanchez Referee Jenny Sanchez Tech Controller Max Ryan Tech Controller Barrie Gilbert Time Keeper Chris Burden Time Keeper Anthony Villanti Time Keeper Cameron Menhenick Time Keeper Simon Grace Speaker Lyn Jones Speaker Jim Bouyoukas Marshal Mehmet Yagci Marshal Bob Hemery JP Secretary George Hardiman Secretary Robert Mitchell Doctor World Junior Championships, China Sam Coffa AM, JP Jury President Boris Kayser Referee Lyn Jones Speaker Matthew Curtain IWF Secretariat World Masters Championships, France Bob Hemery JP Referee Debra Keelan Referee Commonwealth & Oceania Championships, Samoa Sam Coffa AM, JP Jury President Matthew Curtain Jury Member Leo Ryan Referee Pedro Sanchez Referee Lyn Jones Speaker World Senior Championships, Dominican Republic Sam Coffa AM, JP Jury President Pedro Sanchez Tech Controller Boris Kayser IWF Secretariat Technical Officials XVIII Commonwealth Games, Melbourne 2006

26 REPORT COACH DEVELOPMENT It is pleasing to report on the success of the re-vamped coaching education program during the last 12 months. It would appear the courses especially the Club / Sports Power course is really filling a gap in the marketplace. Whereas certainly the overwhelming majority of candidates are coming from the Strength & Conditioning profession and coaches from other sports, we are still providing education for and recruiting bona fide weightlifting coaches. The program is spreading the gospel of the advantages of weightlifting training in the development of strength and power for other sports. It is giving candidates the ability to teach the lifts correctly and safely and put together meaningful and result producing training programs. Twelve courses have already been run in 2006 with another to be run in Brisbane at the end of the month. Club/Sports Power License courses This is our basic course replacing the old Level 1. Eight courses have been conducted in Four in Queensland, two in NSW, one in NT and one in Belfast, Northern Ireland. State/Sport Power License courses From the success of the first course in Brisbane in 2005 this course is really beginning to take off. Four courses have been conducted so far this year with one more planned. Courses were organised in Northern Territory, Western Australia, Belfast and two in Queensland. The AWF is indebted to Miles Wydall for producing a DVD on Faults and Corrections for this course. National Weightlifting License This course has been endorsed by the Australian Sports Commission and the first one will be conducted in Queensland in the New Year. The course is weightlifting specific and we feel sure will provide in depth knowledge to candidates who wish to progress to the elite level. We are getting pressurised by Strength & Conditioning Coaches who have successfully completed their State Level License to develop a National Level Sports Power Course Preliminary meetings have taken place with faculty members at Bond University to initiate a curriculum for the License. International Weightlifting License This is still a work in progress and we anticipate completion and ASC approval in Revenue The organization and delivery of these courses continues to raise revenue for the States involved and the AWF. State membership and AWF capitations continue to rise because of these endeavours. Recommendations When funds become available, hopefully in the not too distant future, we need to improve the standard our course materials. This means colour printing of our manuals, production of DVD/Video/CD s for each level and even T-shirts for each level. These

27 improved materials would enable us to probably charge more for the License courses and also create a more professional image for AWF. The production of a brochure outlining the License education program would do much to improve our image and also help in promoting the courses. Both of the above recommendations do provide an excellent vehicle for a sponsor, as it not only gets their brand out to weightlifting but also to a myriad of other sports. The License courses reputation is spreading internationally and the AWF have agreed on a fee to be paid to AWF for each international candidate. The Northern Ireland connection is already bearing fruit and we have already had enquiries from Singapore, Qatar and Japan. Lyn Jones & Michael Keelan Coach Development Advisory Group Erika Yamasaki Bronze Medallist, XVIII Commonwealth Games

28 REPORT MASTERS I am pleased to report a very successful year for the Masters within the AWF. The highlight was the number and quality of entrants in the 2006 AWF Masters Championships. In particular, the female numbers competing regularly continues to grow under the coaching of Coral Quinell, Goran Vukojivic and David DeRose. These three coaches are responsible for the significant growth among female lifters and the weekend women s masters coaching seminar in Brisbane was extremely successful. Amanda Phillips also held a similar programme in Queensland for the QWA female lifters and it is to be hoped programmes will be held in other states for male and female lifters. These clinics have had a big impact on the quality of lifting among females and the resulting high standard was especially noticeable at the 2006 AWF Masters Championships. It was also pleasing to see many NSWWA Masters return to the platform and hopefully they are commencing their quest for success at the 2009WMG to be held in Sydney. On a disappointing note, the lack of a jury at the AWF Masters Championships once again denigrated the standard of refereeing in some sessions. I believe a jury to be essential in maintaining consistency across all sessions; especially as there are still some referees who feel that Masters should be shown some leniency. The lack of referee lights at a National Championships detracted from an otherwise very successful competition. A big thank you to the NSWWA and in particular to Steven Tikkanen and Nadeene Latif who worked tirelessly all day. Barry Allen organized an excellent social function after the competition where trophies were presented and a good night was had by all. Overall, the year was successful for Masters with good numbers competing and an ever improving standard; especially among the women. As tabled by the OWF Masters Chairman, the women lifted very successfully at the IWF Masters Championships in France. I feel confident that many Masters have commenced a long build up for the 2009WMG in Sydney so that next year should see further improvement in numbers and standard. Lawrie Townsend Masters Coordinator

29 REPORT ATHLETES' COMMITTEE There have been three major changes within the athletes' committee leadership this year. After 3 years at the helm, Natasha Barker stepped down after the Commonwealth Games in March, following her bronze medal winning performance, and subsequent retirement. On behalf of all athletes, I'd like to thank Natasha for all her hard work, constant updates and the professional way she conducted her duties. Michael Klinkert, as elected vice-chair, stepped up to the plate and worked assiduously and openly during a busy time, both for the sport and for him. Michael stepped down following the 2006 Nationals, which he was unable to attend. At the annual elections during the aforementioned event, Simon Heffernan was elected as the Athletes' Committee representative, with Nicole Sawon elected as vice-chair. Jacquie White has also been selected to be part of the High Performance Management Committee, an advancement we applaud, and we encourage the AWF to look at other ways athlete input can be sought. On an insular level, problems noted include a lack of full athlete representation in all states and territories, with NT, ACT, NSW and WA affected. We realise that funding difficulties may have contributed to this situation, with a smaller turnout at this year's Nationals. Nevertheless, the original aim of all athletes having someone they can turn to and voice their concerns must come to fruition. Another concern is the paucity of responses from state representatives, to correspondence sent. This situation, be it due to apathy, lack of time or fear of reprisal, has been a source of frustration for my predecessors and myself. I would encourage the representatives to respond and offer their opinion more frequently. Sport wise, of most concern is the funding debacle; a problem we all hope is being addressed by the ASC. Without a clear plan of what competitions will be aimed for and funded, the morale and number of lifters can only plummet further. Clear and frequent updates from the decision makers are required, and we regard highly the updated announcements on the AWF website. Our congratulations must be extended to the AWF CEO Matt Curtain, who has been instrumental in this regard, and is able to grasp the importance of keeping the lifting community informed. It is also more than a pity that some of the concerns raised in last year's athletes' committee report have not been addressed, most importantly the need to support our `home-grown' athletes. To use just one example, it is unacceptable that some athletes have their expenses covered and are flown over for competitions as important as the Commonwealth Games Trials, whilst other athletes have to pay their own way. Lifters also share the concern of the Board regarding the ASADA enquiry, athlete whereabouts forms and commenting on doping issues to the media. Ian Moir is to be commended for his prompt and clear responses to queries and disseminating information and I will endeavour to inform athletes all the important announcements concerning doping issues. It is agreed that all athletes offering their opinions on contentious issues would be a

30 recipe for disaster. However, this does not mean that a "No comment" is acceptable as a response, as silence is injurious to our reputation. More needs to be done to improve our reputation, and there are plenty of talented lifters who are capable, set a good example and have demonstrated their affability, media-wise. Our request for a media liaison or guidelines at the least, to help us deal with the media, has been discussed on a few occasions. In the same regard, I'd like to stress on behalf of all the lifters, that our sport is worthy of more attention than once every four years. Let's endeavour to ditch the decade's fanaticism with "each for themself"; to working together for a productive future. I believe that the spectacle of much of March 2006 showed that this is possible. Simon Heffernan Chairman Simon Heffernan Silver Medallist - XVIII Commonwealth Games

31 AUSTRALIAN REPRESENTATIVES 2006 Athlete State Event Erika Yamasaki QLD XVIII Commonwealth Games, World Junior C ships Amanda Phillips QLD XVIII Commonwealth Games Deborah Lovely QLD XVIII Commonwealth Games Ben Turner QLD XVIII Commonwealth Games Joel Wilson QLD Damon Kelly QLD XVIII Commonwealth Games, World Junior C ships, Commonwealth & Oceania Championships XVIII Commonwealth Games, World University Championships, World Championships Troy Hewkins QLD Commonwealth & Oceania Championships Davina Hughes QLD Commonwealth & Oceania Championships Luke Gardner QLD Commonwealth & Oceania Championships Anthony Salsone QLD Commonwealth & Oceania Championships Liana Lambert QLD Commonwealth & Oceania Championships Vicki Brady QLD World Masters Championships Diana Loy QLD World Masters Championships Debra Keelan QLD World Masters Championships Lawrie Townsend QLD World Masters Championships Jacquie White VIC XVIII Commonwealth Games, World Championships Belinda Van Tienen VIC XVIII Commonwealth Games Yourik Sarkisian VIC XVIII Commonwealth Games Simon Heffernan VIC XVIII Commonwealth Games Aleksan Karapetyn VIC XVIII Commonwealth Games Seen Lee VIC World Championships Kelly O Meara VIC Commonwealth & Oceania Championships Mark Woodford VIC Commonwealth & Oceania Championships Nadeene Latif NSW XVIII Commonwealth Games, Commonwealth & Oceania Championships, World Championships

32 Natasha Barker NSW XVIII Commonwealth Games Valerie Sarava NSW XVIII Commonwealth Games Malek Chamoun NSW Commonwealth & Oceania Championships Elena Palamara NSW Commonwealth & Oceania Championships Juanita White NSW Commonwealth & Oceania Championships Robert Mitchell NSW World Masters Championships Rebecca Brooke NT Commonwealth & Oceania Championships Amy Hardy NT Commonwealth & Oceania Championships Coral Quinell NT World Masters Championships Grace Morrison WA World Masters Championships Robert Galswarthy WA Commonwealth & Oceania Championships Christopher Rae SA XVIII Commonwealth Games Shane Gates SA Commonwealth & Oceania Championships SUMMARY 2006 State / Territory Number of AUS representatives Queensland 15 Victoria 8 New South Wales 7 Northern Territory 3 Western Australia 2 South Australia 2 Total 37

33 INTERNATIONAL RESULTS (EXCLUDING XVIII COMMONWEALTH GAMES) Athlete B/WT Snatch C & J Total Place Event Erika Yamasaki World Juniors Joel Wilson World Juniors Joel Wilson Silver Commonwealth Seniors Joel Wilson Silver Commonwealth Juniors Joel Wilson Gold Oceania Seniors Joel Wilson Gold Oceania Juniors Damon Kelly Bronze / Silver World University Damon Kelly World Seniors Troy Hewkins Bronze Commonwealth Seniors Troy Hewkins Gold Commonwealth Juniors Troy Hewkins Silver Oceania Seniors Troy Hewkins Gold Oceania Juniors Davina Hughes Silver Commonwealth Seniors Davina Hughes Gold Commonwealth Juniors Davina Hughes Silver Oceania Seniors Davina Hughes Gold Oceania Juniors Luke Gardner Bronze Commonwealth Seniors Luke Gardner Silver Commonwealth Juniors Luke Gardner Bronze Oceania Seniors Luke Gardner Silver Oceania Juniors Anthony Salsone Commonwealth Seniors Anthony Salsone Commonwealth Juniors Anthony Salsone Oceania Seniors Anthony Salsone Bronze Oceania Juniors Liana Lambert Gold Commonwealth Seniors

34 Liana Lambert Gold Commonwealth Juniors Liana Lambert Gold Oceania Seniors Liana Lambert Gold Oceania Juniors Jacquie White World Seniors Seen Lee World Seniors Kelly O Meara Bronze Commonwealth Seniors Kelly O Meara Silver Oceania Seniors Mark Woodford Commonwealth Seniors Mark Woodford Silver Commonwealth Juniors Mark Woodford Oceania Seniors Mark Woodford Silver Oceania Juniors Nadeene Latif Gold Commonwealth Seniors Nadeene Latif Gold Oceania Seniors Nadeene Latif World Seniors Malek Chamoun Commonwealth Seniors Malek Chamoun Gold Commonwealth Juniors Malek Chamoun Oceania Seniors Malek Chamoun Gold Oceania Juniors Elena Palamara Commonwealth Seniors Elena Palamara Commonwealth Juniors Elena Palamara Oceania Seniors Elena Palamara Oceania Juniors Juanita White Bronze Commonwealth Juniors Juanita White Bronze Oceania Juniors Rebecca Brooke Commonwealth Seniors Rebecca Brooke Silver Commonwealth Juniors Rebecca Brooke Bronze Oceania Seniors

35 Rebecca Brooke Silver Oceania Juniors Amy Hardy Bronze Commonwealth Juniors Amy Hardy Silver Oceania Juniors Rob Galswarthy Silver Commonwealth Seniors Rob Galswarthy Silver Commonwealth Juniors Rob Galswarthy Silver Oceania Seniors Rob Galswarthy Silver Oceania Juniors Shane Gates Pacific Rim International Vicki Brady Gold World Masters Diana Loy Gold World Masters Debra Keelan Gold World Masters Coral Quinell Gold World Masters Grace Morrison Silver World Masters Lawrie Townsend World Masters Robert Mitchell World Masters Note: 2006 Commonwealth & Oceania (incorporating the Inaugural Pacific Rim Tournament) Championships were held concurrently in Apia, Samoa The Australian Weightlifting Federation is financially supported by

36 INTERNATIONAL POSITIONS INTERNATIONAL WEIGHTLIFTING FEDERATION ( ) Sam Coffa AM, JP IWF First Vice President Sam Coffa AM, JP Chairman, IWF Technical Committee Lyn Jones Member, IWF Scientific & Research Committee Boris Kayser Chairman, IWF Appeals Committee Bob Hemery JP Member, IWF Masters Executive Committee COMMONWEALTH WEIGHTLIFTING FEDERATION ( ) Paul Coffa MBE CWF General Secretary Matthew Curtain CWF Assistant General Secretary OCEANIA WEIGHTLIFTING FEDERATION ( ) Paul Coffa MBE OWF General Secretary Matthew Curtain OWF Assistant General Secretary Bob Hemery JP Chairman, OWF Masters Committee Pedro Sanchez Chairman, OWF Technical Committee