Warren’s eyes sparkle as he recalls the moment he achieved his life’s goal – winning his first gold medal at the Special Olympics.
“I didn’t think I’d come first,” he says, with a grin. “I said, ‘I don’t think I will come first.’ But then, I did.”
His tenpin bowling career began years ago in his hometown of Brisbane, where he and his mum formed a winning team, affectionately known as the Prickly Pair. Warren’s dream of competing on the world stage was inspired by watching Special Olympics competitions online.
That dream started to become reality when he was selected to compete in the Australian National Games in Launceston, Tasmania, in 2022. The competition was fierce, but Warren’s determination was stronger. When he talks about his medals, especially the gold ones, pride shines in his eyes.
“The gold ones mean the most to me. It makes me feel proud to think, ‘Yeah, I can do it’.”
Julie is Warren’s dedicated support worker through Uniting Communities. She has been by his side throughout this incredible journey.
“Warren’s very competitive,” she says. “He’s done the torch run, competed in state and national games, and now he’s setting his sights on the USA. It’s been amazing to watch him grow.”
Both Julie and Warren agree, their partnership is built on mutual respect and shared goals. Julie describes Warren as fiercely independent, needing just a little guidance along the way. Together, they’ve navigated the complexities of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), ensuring that Warren’s passion for bowling remains front and centre.
“The NDIS pays for his special bowling shoes, his competition fees – everything.
It’s all part of his NDIS goals, which is just how it should be.
Warren’s story shows how people’s NDIS plans can really be tailored to their needs and goals.”
Beyond his bowling career, Warren is also a mentor, a friend, and an advocate for others. He regularly attends meetings with the South Australian Council on Intellectual Disability (SACID), where he learns, shares, and speaks up for others.
“I am helping my bowling friend Simon,” Warren says. “He wants to go to the Special Olympics too, so I’m helping him figure out how he can get there.”
Julie nods, acknowledging how Warren has become a guiding figure, using his experiences to help others navigate their own paths.
She says Uniting Communities has played a crucial role in Warren’s success, providing the personalised support that has enabled him to embrace his independence and find fulfillment.
“Uniting Communities is amazing,” Julie says. “The personal touch, the way they know every single client – it’s very different from other providers. That’s why it works so well.”
This tailored care enables Warren to pursue his passions, from bowling competitions to meal prep, gym workouts, making new friends, and even helping neighbours with their grocery shopping.
At age 65, Warren shows no signs of slowing down. His dream of competing in the USA is as strong as ever, and he continues to push himself, learning new techniques like mastering the hook ball in bowling.
“Anyone can do it. Don’t listen to those who say you can’t.
Go where your heart is. If you think you can do it, you can.”
As Warren prepares for his next competition, his focus remains sharp. With Julie by his side and the ongoing support of Uniting Communities, he knows that whatever the future holds, he’s ready to face it head-on.
“Julie’s help is amazing,” he says, glancing at her with a warm smile. “She’s like a sister to me.”
Julie returns the smile, knowing that their journey together is far from over. For Warren, with the steadfast support of Uniting Communities, he’s not just aiming for the pins – he’s aiming for a life filled with meaning, purpose, and endless possibilities.
