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The Australian Paralympic Movement has lost a dedicated and passionate figure with the passing of Doug Denby.
Denby joined the Paralympics Australia Board (formerly known as the APC) as the Director for Finance in 1996 and dedicated himself to the Paralympic cause until his retirement in December 2013. During his remarkable 17-year tenure, Doug played a pivotal role in the significant evolution of Australian Paralympic sport.
Paralympics Australia President Alison Creagh expressed her deep gratitude for Denby’s contribution.
“Doug was an exceptional leader within our Paralympic community,” Creagh said.
“He was presented with the Australian Paralympic Medal in 2011, PA’s highest recognition of the contributions of non-athletes to the Paralympic movement. This award celebrated Doug’s devotion and invaluable service.”
“His unwavering commitment to our cause, his expertise in finance, and his deep passion for Paralympic sport helped shape our organisation’s success.”
A Chartered Accountant by profession, Denby was involved in disability sport for over 30 years. In addition to functional roles within the Australian Paralympic Team including Assistant Chef de Mission for the 2004 Athens Games, he chaired PA’s finance committee, or its equivalent, throughout his tenure, and his expertise guided the organisation from a position of financial uncertainty to one of strength. In his first year as Finance Director, PA’s income was $3.2 million. In his final year, it exceeded $20 million.
In addition to his work with Paralympics Australia, Doug was an advocate for disability sport through his involvement with the Riding for the Disabled, at local, state, and national levels. His passion for equestrian sports, including the Paralympic equestrian program, was unwavering.
Doug served as the President of Riding for the Disabled Australia from 1992 to 2000 and was awarded Life Membership in 2006 for his exceptional contributions. His legacy within the sport of equestrian extended beyond his roles in Paralympics Australia; he was Treasurer of the NSW State Body of RDA for over 18 years and served as Treasurer for “Tall Timbers,” the largest horse-riding centre for people with disabilities in New South Wales. He also held the role of Treasurer for the international body, Federation of Riding for the Disabled International (FRDI) for several years.
The Australian Paralympic community send its deepest condolences to the Denby family and their loved ones during this difficult time.
By: Paralympics Australia
Posted: 23 October 2023
