For The Love Of Lifting

The Thirroul Surf Life Saving Club in Wollongong became a Valentines Day stage for strength, determination, and a little bit of love — the love of lifting. Among the athletes from across the country competing in the opening round of the 2026 Australian Para Powerlifting Grand Prix season, one young local stole the show. 

Just 14 years old and weighing in at 53 kilograms, Carly Young lifted a personal best of 60 kilograms. Head coach Simon Bergner couldn’t hide his excitement.  

“Carly is one to watch in the future. At such a young age, lifting over her body weight is an impressive achievement,” Bergner said. 

Her feat was a lift that captured the spirit of the day: courage, passion and heart. 

The NSW Grand Prix also featured standout performances from seasoned competitors. In the men’s Open Division, Daniel Bos, competing in his new Under-49kg category, lifted 145 kilograms – close to three times his body weight – to claim gold on co-efficient. Dylan Braan followed with a personal best lift of 175 kilograms for silver, and Rod Watson’s consistency earned him bronze.  

On the women’s Open Division platform, Rachel Coady lifted 95 kilograms for gold on co-efficient, Jade Pritchard earned silver, and Natasha Price took bronze. 

The Grand Prix series continues in Adelaide on May 17 and Melbourne on August 15, building toward the pinnacle of the Australian Para Powerlifting calendar, the Australian National Championships on the Gold Coast in November. 

By Ashley Gillespie, Paralympics Australia.

Published 18 February, 2026.