Sunshine Coast 2032 announces key leadership appointments
In preparation for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Sunshine Coast 2032 is stepping up its focus on collaboration and connection to realise the region’s full potential before, during, and after the Olympic spectacle.
To achieve their vision of maximising the legacy of Brisbane 2032, Sunshine Coast 2032 has announced key leadership appointments.
Olympic Gold Medallist Duncan Armstrong named Patron
Australian swimming legend Duncan Armstrong (pictured top) has been named Patron of Sunshine Coast 2032, building on his foundational contribution as a board member, and Deputy Chair. A national hero since his record-breaking gold at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, Armstrong brings decades of experience in elite sport and media. His passion for community and sport makes him a powerful ambassador for the region’s Olympic journey.
Chair Roz White noted “Duncan’s legacy and leadership are a perfect match for our vision and this role recognises his continued commitment to championing our region as we build towards 2032.”
Armstrong added “The Sunshine Coast has always been close to my heart. I’m honoured to take on this role and help inspire the next generation as we prepare for one of the biggest opportunities in our region’s history.”
New Board Appointments Bring Depth and Diversity
Three new director appointments for the Sunshine Coast 2032 Board:
•Mal Brough (pictured above left) , Appointed to Deputy Chair – Former federal MP and Minister, with 35 years of local ties and deep networks across government, business, and sport. Brough has been a Board member of Sunshine Coast 2032 since 2024 and now joins the leadership as Deputy Chair.
•Sonia Heath (pictured above centre) – An Olympian, world champion and dual Australian sporting representative, Heath has more than 20 years of leadership experience in strategic communications, corporate affairs, and stakeholder engagement across the private, government, sport and community sectors. She is also actively involved in grassroots sports as volunteer surf life saver, nipper Age Manager, and competitor.
•Paul Lowik (pictured above right) – With a distinguished 45-year career in education, including 38 years as a school principal, Lowik has championed academic excellence, inclusive leadership, and community engagement. His extensive network across government, business, and community sectors has driven impactful partnerships and initiatives. A long-time advocate for youth and regional sports, Lowik l brings deep grassroots experience through leadership roles in key Sunshine Coast sporting associations, where he has successfully advanced inclusive programs, facility improvements, and strategic investment in local sport development.
White added “these appointments strengthen our Sunshine Coast 2032 team at a pivotal time for the region as we work to maximise the legacy of Brisbane 2032.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the calibre of people who want to be part of this journey. Their experience and passion reflect the momentum building right across the Sunshine Coast.”
About Sunshine Coast 2032
Sunshine Coast 2032 is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee, established in 2022 to maximise the opportunities for the region presented by the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Guided by the needs and aspirations of the Sunshine Coast community, the organisation is committed to delivering long-term benefits across economic, social, environmental, and cultural sectors.
Operating under the leadership of a volunteer Board of Directors, Sunshine Coast 2032 fosters collaboration to amplify, connect and unite with all stakeholders from a grass roots level to drive economic success, enhance liveability, and promote a connected, inclusive, and empowered region to optimize all the opportunities in the lead up to, during and after the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The organisation’s work is grounded in three core values: integrity, accountability, and progression. It is supported by six dedicated teams focused on:
Sport & Recreation
Business & Tourism
Infrastructure
Arts & Culture
Community & Volunteers
Environment & Sustainability
Image top. Duncan Armstrong; Image above from left: Mal Brough,Sonia Heath, Paul Lowik
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