Peter Cullen AM honoured with Kevin Coombs Lifetime Achievement Award

Recently presented at Marvel Stadium on 25 August, the award celebrates individuals whose lifetime contributions have transformed opportunities for people with disability through sport and recreation. It is a fitting recognition for Peter, whose vision and leadership have helped break down barriers to participation for more than 35 years.

A legacy of opportunity and inclusion

Since founding Reclink Australia in 1990, Peter has dedicated his career to ensuring that healthy sport, active recreation, and social connection are accessible to those facing serious life challenges. What began as a community-based initiative has grown into a national organisation that delivers more than 350 sport and recreation sessions each week, reaches over 20,000 people every month, and offers 75 activities across Australia.

Reflecting on the power of inclusion, Peter said:

“We never know really when the moment of transformation comes for an individual, and an opportunity is the starting point, and that starting point of transformation can be just a quality invitation, and an opportunity coupled with the encouragement of other people to begin an exciting life journey. I believe that one opportunity can change the direction of someone’s life”.

A cornerstone of Peter's work has been creating inclusive sporting environments where everyone can participate, regardless of their circumstances. Today, more than 20 per cent of Reclink Australia participants live with disability, demonstrating the ongoing impact of his commitment to inclusion and belonging.

The power of belonging through sport

Peter's approach has always been simple but powerful: remove barriers, create opportunities, and focus on people first. Through this philosophy, thousands of individuals have been able to experience the physical, social and mental health benefits that Reclink’s sport and recreation programs provide.

As Peter explains, “Everybody should belong, have the experience of belonging in Australia, and the power of doing that through sport is a magnificent vehicle.”

The Kevin Coombs Lifetime Achievement Award recognises not only Peter's decades of advocacy and innovation but also the significant legacy he has built across communities throughout Australia. His leadership has inspired countless individuals, organisations, and volunteers to embrace inclusion and create pathways for participation.

A well-deserved recognition

Reclink Australia CEO, Dave Wells paid tribute to Peter's extraordinary contribution and enduring impact.

"Peter has spent more than three decades showing what is possible when you put people first. His unwavering belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to belong has changed countless lives and shaped Reclink into the organisation it is today.

This award recognises not only Peter's remarkable achievements, but also the compassion, vision, and determination that have inspired generations of staff, volunteers, partners, and participants."

Disability Sport and Recreation CEO, Liz Tesone also paid tribute to Peter's contribution and legacy.

"Peter Cullen embodies everything the Kevin Coombs Lifetime Achievement Award stands for. For over 35 years he has shown extraordinary vision and heart, breaking down barriers so that everyone, regardless of ability, can experience the power of sport and connection. Reclink wouldn't exist without his relentless belief that everyone deserves the chance to belong. On behalf of everyone at DSR, congratulations Peter, this recognition is so richly deserved," Liz said.

Reclink Australia is incredibly proud of Peter's achievement and grateful for the passion, determination, and vision to make community sport and recreation an essential service for public health that continue to shape our organisation and those we serve.

Congratulations, Peter, on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for your extraordinary contribution to building a more inclusive Australia through sport and recreation.

See photos from the event or watch the live stream here.