The NSW climbing community is helping shape the future of Para Climbing in Australia, with a strong
contingent representing the state at the recent 2025 Australian Para Climbing Championships in
Melbourne, Victoria.
Sport Climbing NSW brought the largest Para Climbing team to the event – a milestone made possible
through close collaboration with Able Climbing NSW, Elevate Climbing, and the national body, Sport
Climbing Australia.
Together, these organisations are creating inclusive pathways for adaptive athletes to discover sport
climbing, train regularly, and compete on the state and national stage – with clear pathways to World Cup
and Paralympic competition through Sport Climbing Australia. Several NSW climbers have already
represented Australia on the IFSC Para Climbing World Cup and World Championship circuit this year,
helping to put NSW Para Climbers on the map.
Among them was Angus Taylor, who secured first place in the AL2 category, one of the most competitive
divisions of the weekend. Based in the Blue Mountains, Angus has been climbing outdoors for more than
a decade before discovering the world of competitive Para Climbing. He now trains regularly at Elevate
Climbing in Villawood and represents Australia on the international circuit. His steady focus and
commitment to progression have helped raise awareness of Para Climbing in NSW and beyond.
For Sophie Weaver, the youngest member of the NSW team, this year’s event marked her first Open
Nationals in the B3 (vision-impaired) category. Sophie first discovered climbing through trips to the gym
with her dad, where she quickly developed a love for the sport. Guided by her coach and sight guide Alex
MacInnes and a strong network of supporters, Sophie’s determination and quiet confidence capture the
inclusive and encouraging spirit of Para Climbing in NSW.
“Para Climbing in NSW is still growing, but the energy and momentum are really building,” said
Tara Davidson, President of Sport Climbing NSW. “It’s such a community effort – athletes,
coaches, gyms and volunteers all coming together to make climbing accessible and welcoming for
everyone. With Para Climbing heading toward LA 2028, it’s a really exciting time to be part of it.”
Para Climbing will make its Paralympic debut at the LA 2028 Games – a historic step for the sport globally,
and NSW athletes and volunteers are proud to be part of building that future.
Sport Climbing NSW. ABN 95 831 733 551
Get involved
Sport Climbing NSW supports the growth of Para Climbing across the state through inclusive programs
such as Able Climbing NSW and partnerships that create pathways from grassroots to the national level.
The final Adaptive Climbing Come & Try Day for 2025 will take place on Sunday, 23 November at Elevate
Climbing in Villawood. It’s open to anyone curious about adaptive climbing, whether you’re an athlete,
support worker, coach or volunteer.
For updates on upcoming Para Climbing events and programs, follow @sportclimbingnsw and
@ableclimbingnsw on Instagram.
Media Contacts:
Tara Davidson
President
Sport Climbing NSW
president@sportclimbingnsw.org.au
0474 692 488
Jodie Metaxiotis
Vice President
Sport Climbing NSW
jodie.metaxiotis@sportclimbingnsw.org.au
0411 305 036