Last Thursday, Robina Town Centre invited local families to meet Aussie swimming hero Cody Simpson in celebration of QIC Real Estate’s partnership with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC), including the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), to support future Aussie champions.
The collaboration, ‘We Build Champions’, showcases sport at all levels, fostering national pride and inspiring future athletes, volunteers, grassroots clubs, and participants of all ages within schools and the local community.
To celebrate the partnership, Robina Town Centre hosted a first-of-its-kind activation ‘Robina Arena’ where local kids can see how they measure up against their Aussie sporting heroes with a Jump Test, Canoe Course and Steady Skater challenge.
Aussie swimming champion Cody Simpson was thrilled to visit the Robina Arena, eager to challenge kids in a range of sports. For many, it was their first time experiencing these activities.
“We all start our sports journey somewhere. It’s important for young Australians to have the opportunity to try different things and have a crack at all kinds of sports and activities,” said Simpson.
“As a kid, I looked up to a variety of athletes and sporting heroes, including USA’s Micheal Phelps and Australian Ian Thorpe, so my 12-year-old self would definitely be here, amongst these local kids, hoping to meet an athlete. If I can inspire them to realise that anything is possible with a dream, effort, and dedication, perhaps some future champions will start their journey right here.”
QIC Head of Marketing Bronwyn Cooper says the “We Build Champions” ethos celebrates active participation foremost, and recognises all community champions, players, coaches, supporters, and volunteers who make an effort to show up and contribute, rather than solely striving to be the country’s best.
“Through this partnership, it is our goal to inspire young Australians at a grassroots level, no matter what their age, ability, where they’re from or what role they can play in sport, by providing them with inspiration and a connection with a local club to get involved.”
“Cody’s success in the pool, and his non-sporting endeavours, is a source of great pride for all Australians. His unique story exemplifies how each career journey is truly individual. I just hope Cody will pack some extra stamina on Thursday, because the local kids are ready and willing to challenge him at the Robina Arena,” said Cooper.
Robina Town Centre is one of eight locations where athlete appearances across QIC Real Estate’s shopping centres will give communities an opportunity to recognise local heroes for their own outstanding contribution to sport.
The “We Build Champions” program is supported by several other iconic Australian sporting legends including Petria Thomas, Alicia Coutts, Vanessa Low, Scott Reardon, Michael Roeger and Beki Smith. And on the Gold Coast, local favourites Ashley Callus and Cody Simpson.
As part of the partnership, families will also have the chance to win a VIP experience for a family of four to the AIS in Canberra, valued at over $6,000. Communities can also connect with their local clubs via ASC’s Get Involved digital platform. Offering a curated database of national sporting clubs and associations, the Get Involved platform encourages people to participate in sport by playing, volunteering, coaching, officiating, or supporting their local club.
The exciting partnership between ASC and QIC Real Estate not only celebrates Australian sport, but also unites communities, inspiring Australians to get active and build the champions of tomorrow.
