THEY’VE freely given up their time to help out at the Australian Transplant Games, World Firefighters Games, Special Olympics and Pan Pacific Masters, to name a few.
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Now, Scone couple Mike and Chris Birmingham can add the 2018 Invictus Games to the list.
The pair have been selected as volunteers for the upcoming event, which features wounded warriors from all over the globe, in Sydney from October 20 to 27.
They will work as technical officials at the swimming – to be contested at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre, Homebush; their area of expertise.
And, to say the couple is excited is an understatement.
“We’ve done many carnivals at Homebush over the years,” Mrs Birmingham said.
“However, it will be an honour to work with these wonderful athletes who have served their countries and, unfortunately, suffered varying degrees of injury.
“We had to apply [for the roles].
“Apparently, the organisers were inundated – everyone wants to be a part of the Invictus Games.
“So, we didn’t think we had much of a chance.
“But, we were both selected, which is fabulous.
“To be honest, we’re over the moon.
“The Invictus Games are very special.
“And, for me personally, it’s something extremely close to my heart.
“My dad returned from war with shrapnel lodged in his back, which stayed there until he died.
“Even, my sister and brother-in-law have come on board by sponsoring our accommodation down there [at Homebush].
“It will be a buzz for Mike and I, lending our assistance.”
Mrs Birmingham admits she is unlikely to run into Prince Harry, who initiated the concept of the Invictus Games, which started in 2014.
Although, she remains hopeful.
“I believe he’ll be there,” she said.
“And, that he tries to get to all the events.
“However, we’ll be on the pool deck, so I don’t know if we’ll see him.”
Earlier in October, they will officiate at a Special Olympics state swim meet, also in Sydney.
“These athletes are an inspiration, too,” Mrs Birmingham said.
“Their motto is ‘Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt’.
“Special Olympics is the world’s largest sports organisation for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
“At the end of the day, we just love volunteering.
“Mike and I used to take our son [Tim] to swimming competitions when he was young.
“Now, it’s our hobby,” she added with a laugh.
“Over the past few years, Mike has faced quite a few medical issues.
“But, he’s now very well and able to step up and help a lot more.”
The community-minded duo has also taught hundreds of children to swim at Merriwa Olympic Pool.