Described as the ultimate spin-off, Grafton hosted the first interschool wheelchair basketball competition on November 30.

Aimed at raising awareness of the importance of sport for people living with a disability, the event was organised by Clarence Valley Council (CVC) and not-for-profit organisation Social Futures and attracted a large crowd including local primary and secondary school students to the Grafton PCYC last week.

The event was also held as part of the celebrations in the lead up to the International Day of People with Disability on December 3, a United Nations sanctioned day which promotes inclusiveness while acknowledging the achievements of people living with a disability.

Social Futures employee and Paralympic silver medallist David Johnson officiated the competition, which spun into action with a special exhibition game between local police officers and an all-star team made up of local identities.

Mr Johnson has been actively promoting wheelchair sports throughout the Northern Rivers for the past three years, and said his goal is to help normalise disabilities and create opportunities for people living with a disability to engage in everyday activities.

Mr Johnson said it was fantastic to see so many Clarence Valley residents in attendance, and revealed there was plenty of action on the court during the exhibition match, won by the all-star team 4-0.

Describing both teams as boasting “a couple of sporting types”, Mr Johnson said the addition of wheelchairs for participants “completely changed things.”

“They (players) soon figured out how challenging it is to control a sports wheelchair,” he explained, adding participants quickly became aware of the talent and skills involved in wheelchair sports.

“It really got them thinking, and the students loved the challenge.”

Mr Johnson said the event also provided participants with the chance to speak with him and learn about the lives of people living with a disability, and the importance of becoming an inclusive community.

Councillor Allison Whaites who was part of the all-star team on the court said it was a joy to see a mix of all ages come together at the event, which demonstrated how sport can be inclusive for everyone.

“It gave me a whole new appreciation and understanding,” she said.

Cr Whaites also expressed her gratitude to Grafton based Social Futures Local Coordinator Jason Kingsley, CVC, Grafton PCYC, and Mr Johnson for their assistance in organising the event last week.