47th Inductee – Joel Parkinson
One of the ‘Coolangatta Kids’ joins the Gold Coast Sporting Hall of Fame
Come and explore the new Gold Coast Sports Awards winners announced.
The 2025 Gold Coast Sports Awards lit up the evening with a dazzling celebration of athletic achievement, community spirit, and innovation. Held at RACV Royal Pines, the ceremony brought together local legends, emerging stars, and dedicated volunteers in an event that underscored the city’s commitment to nurturing sport at every level. With a series of electrifying performances—including a breathtaking fire display that kicked off the night—the awards ceremony was a fitting tribute to the incredible talent and hard work that define Gold Coast sport.
The winners of the Hall of Fame categories were:
Athlete of the Year 2024 – Kaylee McKewon
Kaylee McKewon clinched the highly coveted Athlete of the Year Award following a season of extraordinary achievements. With several national titles and new personal records under her belt, Kaylee’s leadership and stellar performance have brought immense pride to the Gold Coast.
Para-Sports Athlete of the Year 2024 – Curtis McGrath
Curtis McGrath’s journey in paracanoe reached new heights in 2024, earning him the Para-Sports Athlete of the Year Award. His remarkable resilience and international medal haul have inspired athletes with disabilities and underscored the transformative power of sport.
Junior Sports Star of the Year 2024 – Arisa Trew
Emerging as one of the most promising young athletes, Arisa Trew was awarded the Junior Sports Star of the Year. Her record-breaking performances and unwavering determination have set the stage for a bright future, positioning her as a true champion in the making.
Daphne Pirie, AO MBE Spirit of Sport Award 2024 – Dale Perkins
Dale Perkins of the Broadbeach AFL Club received the prestigious Daphne Pirie Spirit of Sport Award. His leadership, both as a mentor and an on-field competitor, has been instrumental in shaping the sporting landscape, embodying the true spirit of resilience and sportsmanship.
Further details of the Awards Ceremony and the full winner’s list can be found at the Sports Gold Coast website.
Kaylee McKewon
