HALL OF FAME
The ‘Norm Maroney’ Hall of Fame Award is LETR Oceania Region’s highest achievement and is awarded to an individual who has exhibited exceptional long term and consistent dedication to the athletes of Special Olympics, both in Australia, New Zealand and across the globe.
The individual will portray the spirit of service that this Hall of Fame celebrates. The individual will possess leadership qualities that show their commitment to those with intellectual disabilities and /or autism and their passion to fight for dignity, respect, and acceptance for all.
This individual’s cumulative accomplishments may include fundraising, raising awareness, leadership, athlete engagement, or other activities that move the organisation forward, benefit the athletes, and present LETR/Special Olympics in a positive manner.
This individual’s level of passion and energy are unquestionable, and their contributions have been a major factor in the success of the LETR movement within the Oceania Region.
Assistant Commissioner (Retired) Norm Maroney APM OAM
Norm Maroney is considered to be the father of the LETR movement in Australia.
In 2002, in his capacity as the Chair of Special Olympics New South Wales, Norm wrote to the then NSW Police Commissioner, Ken Moroney seeking the assistance of NSW Police to deliver the ‘Flame of Hope’ to the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics National Games.
Commissioner Moroney agreed to the request and the Flame of Hope was safely delivered to the Opening Ceremony. Over the next five years, LETR Programs emerged in every mainland state in the country as well as New Zealand.
In June 2025, LETR NSW recognised the achievements of Norm Maroney by establishing the LETR NSW ‘Norm Maroney’ Hall of Fame and inducting Norm as its’ first member.
By August 2025, the Hall of Fame was expanded to cover the entire LETR Oceania Region.
HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
