Ame Barnbrook wins inaugural Sue Fear Award

by Jackie Kay on 13 Nov 2007 On Thursday November 8 the Minister for Sport and Recreation, Graham West, and Mr Grahame Fear presented 19-year-old sailor Ame Barnbrook of Sailability Narooma and Sailability Rushcutters Bay with the inaugural Sue Fear Award for Courage and Achievement and a cheque for $500.

The Sue Fear Award commemorates Australia’s leading woman mountaineer who died while climbing on Mount Manaslu in Nepal in 2006. The award was created by Womensport and Recreation NSW to recognise a girl or woman athlete who has overcome daunting obstacles.

Mr West said Ame Barnbrook is an inspiring inaugural winner. Ame was born without limbs except for part of one leg with a small foot and three toes.

'Ame began sailing aged seven with special servo assist controls. At eight, she announced that she would one day sail in the Olympics,' Mr West said.

'Now a skilful sailor, she hopes to be selected for the Australian Paralympic Sailing Team in the 2008 Paralympic Games.

'I wish Ame the very best and congratulate her on this recognition of her dedication and hard work. I also congratulate the other sportswomen who were nominated. All of them express Sue Fear’s passion for challenging herself to achieve great things.'

The presentation took place at the 2007 Sydney Schoolgirls’ Breakfast with the Stars, hosted by Womensport and Recreation NSW. The breakfast was attended by more than 650 high school girls from across the State and by top sportswomen.

On Friday December 7, a dinner and auction will be held at the Middle Harbour Yacht Club to raise funds to assist Ame gain international competition experience. Tickets cost $55 and includes dinner and a welcome glass of champagne.

To purchase tickets, make a donation for auction or obtain information on how you can assist Ame please contact Jackie Kay. http://www.sailability.org/au/nsw/