Champion set to inspire

By Matt Romania

Paralympic gold medallist, accomplished author, and motivational speaker Matthew Levy OAM is ready to invigorate and inspire Moorabool at a free event on Saturday 2 September at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall.

Queensland-based Levy chose Bacchus Marsh as the Victorian stop of his multi-state speaking and book tour, which includes panel-style events and meet and greet opportunities. “I was approached and convinced that Bacchus Marsh would be a fitting venue for me, with the community spirit, welcoming sport-loving people, and the picturesque landscapes.”

Event attendees of ‘Matthew Levy OAM in Bacchus Marsh’ will get a first-hand look at Levy’s hard-earned medals. Besides providing an opportunity to take photos and meet a Paralympian, this event also aims to bring to the fore Levy’s triumphant journey and stories of resilience, leadership, inclusion, and community.

“I really look forward to meeting the community next month… and there might even be a surprise guest appearance or two,” Mr Levy hinted to The Moorabool News.

“I’m keen on engaging and inspiring with the younger generation – our future athletes – who will get to see a gold medal up close, and maybe even take home some photos with it,” Levy said, reiterating that this is a community event, and everyone is welcome.

“My main goal with these community events is to take what I’ve learnt, share my experience to improve lives, particularly about resilience and leadership with the Moorabool community to help us all face and get through whatever challenges life gives us.”

Levy, who has cerebral palsy, is legally blind, and has had more than 40 operations (on his heart, lungs, and even brain), stands as a beacon of determination, commitment and courage. Participating in five consecutive Paralympic games, he turned immense challenges into national victories, amassing an impressive tally of five gold medals. He holds four World Records and has been awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for services to sport.

Levy’s decision to volunteer his time for the event is a testament to his passion for community service, with support following from Moorabool Shire Council, Moorabool Libraries and The Moorabool News to bring the event to life.

Mark your calendars and book your ticket(s) for what promises to be a memorable event with one of Australia’s greatest Paralympians. As an opportunity to hear stories and insights from a world class athlete, it’s sure to leave a positive impact in Moorabool.

As Grant Hackett OAM put it when talking about Matthew, “Matthew Levy is a visionary, dedicated to his sport, and clearly living life to the fullest and making a positive impact in the community.”

‘Matthew Levy OAM in Bacchus Marsh’ will be held at 12pm on Saturday 2 September 2023 at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall, right after BacchChat which is taking place at 10am at the Lerderderg Library. While the event is free to attend, bookings are essential: www.levy.events