Peter (Buddy) Kirby

Peter Kirby is a celebrated Australian Paralympian whose achievements helped shape the history of Indigenous participation in disability sport. Born in Bega, New South Wales, and raised in Eden, Kirby grew up active in local sport and community life.

At age 13, his life changed dramatically when he was electrocuted after coming into contact with fallen high-voltage wires at a sports ground. The accident resulted in the loss of his right forearm and hand, but Kirby refused to let the injury limit his future. With the guidance of a supportive teacher, he relearned how to run and took up competitive athletics with determination.

His talent and persistence soon led him to the 1984 Summer Paralympics in New York/Stoke Mandeville, where, at just 19 years old, he won five medals: gold in the 4×100 m relay, silver in the 4×400 m relay, and bronze in the 100 m, 400 m and long jump events. His gold-medal relay performance made him the first Indigenous Australian to win a Paralympic gold medal, a milestone now recognised in Australia’s sporting history.

After the Games, Kirby continued contributing to community sport, playing rugby league for the Eden Tigers and Pambula-Merimbula Bulldogs, and soccer for South Coast United. His story is widely cited as one of resilience, athletic excellence and cultural significance, highlighting the strength of Indigenous athletes in Australian sport. Today, Peter Kirby remains an important figure in both Paralympic and Indigenous sporting history, remembered for his courage, his speed, and the barrier he broke for future generations.