Para Adaptive Festival Is Back for 2026 and Continues to Inspire the Next Generation

After the resounding success of last year's adaptive festival, the 2026 Adaptive Festivals are back, bigger and more inclusive than ever, with the opening festival held in Thredbo from June 19-21.

This year in addition to the Adaptive Festival in Thredbo, a further three festivals will be held throughout the duration of the season in Falls Creek, Mt Buller and Perisher. 

The Adaptive Festival aims to unite the community offering a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for people who are new to skiing, snowboarding, or cross-country skiing.

For those involved, the weekend also acted as a gateway into the para snowsport community. 

Snow Australia’s Para Pathway lead, Bobbi Kelly highlighted the purpose of the inspiring festival for the 12 participants. 

“Skiers as young as nine tried the sport for the first time,” Kelly said, “It’s great to see them with big smiles and trying out the sports.” 

During the Adaptive Festival, a Community Night was also hosted where Toby Kane, a three-time Paralympian, acted as the event's MC, offering his expertise and motivating the group of twelve skiers and snowboarders. 

Kelly hopes that with Toby as MC, it has inspired the participants.

“He has accomplished so much in his career, it’s wonderful to see him share his wisdom,” Kelly said.

They were able to receive instruction, use adaptive equipment and have on-snow support from experienced guides and coaches. 

A newcomer Para snowsport snowboarding, Austin Alexander found the weekend to be one of community and support. 

“Its the right environment to perform and learn.

“Being supported and surrounded by the right people helps in your development as a person and athlete,” he said.

“It's fun learning, building skills, and connecting with people in the community,” he said.

After participating in the festival, big goals have been sparked for the highly competitive 17 year-old. 

“I’m starting from zero, I can become anything

“Competing in the future would definitely be something I would like to get my eye on,” he said.

The Adaptive Festival continues to be a powerful catalyst for enhancing community inclusivity while providing the support and inspiration necessary for the upcoming cohort of para snowsport competitors.

The next Adaptive Festival will be held from 18 -19 July in Falls Creek.