28 September 2026
Competitors from around Australia and New Zealand are gathered in Launceston this week as the Australian Transplant Games take place in Tasmania for the first time.
The Games bring together transplant recipients, living donors, donor families, carers, health professionals and supporters for an inspirational week of sporting events and activities.
Her Excellency the Honourable Caroline Wells, Governor of Tasmania, was honoured to be in Launceston yesterday to welcome visitors to Tasmania, cheer on competitors during the opening parade in City Park and officially open the Games at a ceremony in the Royal Albert Hall.
Speaking to those gathered at the opening ceremony, she encouraged everyone to have a conversation with their families about organ and tissue donation and make sure their wishes are known.
“There are currently more than 1,800 Australians waiting for a life-changing transplant,” Her Excellency said.
“It’s important to realise that one donor can transform the lives of ten or more people.
"In fact, thanks to the generosity of 557 organ donors, 1,438 Australians received a life-saving organ transplant in 2025.
“May these Games remind us that this is about more than sport — it is about courage, connection, and the greatest gift one person can give another: the gift of life.”
