Paul Livissianos awarded Snowsports Official Award for 2025

Paul Livissianos is one of three Snowsports Official Award winners in the 2025 Snow Australia Community Sport Awards. 

Paul Livissianos has been involved in snowsports for over 20 years as a highly respected judge and official. Serving in roles such as Head Judge, Starter, and Referee, he has contributed to countless events, from Interschools and National Championships to World Cups and even the Olympics.

“I love the snow environment and to be part of a sport where you get to experience the beauty and the harshness of the mountains is amazing,” Livissianos said. 

“I also fully appreciate that the athletes put so much time and work into their training and when it comes down to qualifying from one run, we officials need to do our very best. 

“This means I have spent a lot of my own time and money on education and training, so to be recognised for my contributions to Snowsports, I feel very grateful and honoured. 

“My goal was always to judge at the Olympics, so I would have to say that the first time I set foot in the Freestyle arena at the Beijing Games was pretty special.

“I actually went and sat by myself for a bit to take it all in. The Mogul course and the Aerial site just looked amazing. I thought about everything that had led to that point, all the comps I had judged, all the judges' clinics I had attended around the world, my family and friends that had supported me, it was a little overwhelming!” 

Known for his organisation and professionalism, Paul coordinates and mentors judges, runs judging clinics, and ensures events run smoothly by planning months in advance. He actively recruits and manages judging teams for mogul events across Perisher and Thredbo. 

“There can be quite a lot of stress and anxiety on a judging panel, mostly because people want to do the right thing and sometimes there’s a lot going on around you, so if I can try and get people relaxed so they can just focus on their job, it seems to run a lot smoother,” he said. 

“This also goes for the top of the course. Even at Interschool level, athletes can be quite daunted and nervous. If I see that, I try to have a casual chat to get their minds off it, or to think about all the training they have put it in.”

Beyond his technical skills, Paul’s calm, friendly presence supports athletes, volunteers, and spectators alike, creating an inclusive and enjoyable environment. His dedication, reliability, and passion have made him an invaluable contributor to Australian snowsports. 

“A big thanks has to go to my family who have always supported me in my judging and Snowsports journey,” he said. 

“It was fantastic to be able to see my son Mac get involved in Interschool judging over the last few years and then to judge with him in this year's NSW junior series events and the Australian National event was pretty cool. 

“I hope we can get a lot more younger people involved in this side of the sport and to support them to possibly get to the World Cup level, that would be brilliant!”