Rowing Australia extends its congratulations to Paralympic champions Jed Altschwager and Nikki Ayers, along with the late Eric Waller, for being recognised in this year’s Australia Day Honours list.
Altschwager and Ayers were awarded Medals of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to sport after their Gold medal in the PR3 Mixed Double at the Paris Paralympic Games, while Mr Waller received an OAM for service to rowing after more than six decades of involvement with rowing in Ballarat, Victoria and beyond.
Rowing Australia CEO Sarah Cook OLY praised the recipients, saying it was due recognition of their valuable contributions.
“On behalf of Rowing Australia, I am proud to see Jed, Nikki and Eric receive this well-deserved honour. Their contributions to rowing, both on and off the water, have left an indelible mark,” Cook said.
“Jed and Nikki inspired us all with their exceptional victory in Paris - the first Paralympic rowing Gold for Australia - while Eric’s unwavering dedication to grassroots development and tireless volunteering has left a legacy that will be felt for generations to come.
“Their honours are a testament to their passion, hard work and profound impact they have had on so many lives. We are incredibly proud to have them as part of the Rowing Australia family.”
Mr Waller, who died in 2023 at the age of 82, became a member of Wendouree Ballarat Rowing Club in 1957, the start of a long career as an administrator and innovator.
He held a range of leadership roles in rowing, including being a Rowing Victoria board member and vice-president from 1996-2009, Wendouree Ballarat Rowing Club president from 1979-2009 and Victorian Country Rowing Association president from 1989-2009.
He was Rowing Australia's Volunteer of the Year in 2014 and was also awarded an Australian Sports Medal in 2000.
Rowing Australia also congratulates all other athletes, administrators, officials and volunteers recognised on Australia Day and thanks them for their contributions to sport across the nation.