Aussies up for Gold as Paralympics draw to an end

Australia is up for three huge Paralympic golds tonight as the Games head into the final two days of competition.

The Australian Wheelchair Rugby Team, The Steelers last night charged into the gold medal play off, defeating Canada by one point (41- 40) in an absolute thriller.

Australia will play the USA in the gold medal match 8 PM tonight, Beijing time. Australia has never won Gold in this event – this is a big moment for the team.

The Australian Men’s Wheelchair Basketball Team, The Rollers will also play for Gold against tough competitors Canada tonight at 7:30 Beijing time.

Mr Shorten endured a very cold ice bath with The Rollers yesterday as they prepared for the big game. Some photos are available at: Australian Labor Party: Bill Shorten MP website

Champion Kurt Fearnley will also go for Gold at the Bird’s Nest in the 1500 metre final at 9:10 Beijing time.

Congratulations to the Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team – The Gliders who defeated Japan in hard fought playoff for Bronze last night. The girls just did a fantastic job.

Mr Shorten urged all Australian to get behind the Australian Team who have won 71 medals to date; 20 Gold; 26 silver and 25 bronze.

Over three hours of competition will be live from 7.30 AEST tonight on ABC2, featuring the wheelchair basketball men’s final and wheelchair rugby finals.