Athletes out for gold at 'really important' Special Olympics Australia

Tenpin bowler Charlotte Bailey knows what it is like to appear before an audience.

She has addressed United Nations events to advocate for the rights of people with a disability in the workplace.

"I loved speaking at the United Nations and sharing my story," the 25-year-old told ABC Sport.

"If my voice helps another person with a disability get a chance, then that makes me very happy."

Bailey, who lives with Down syndrome, has already accomplished more than most her age.

And now she is stepping up again to represent the ACT in tenpin bowling at the Special Olympics Australia 2026 National Games.

"Events like this are really important," Bailey said.

"People get to see what athletes with disabilities can do."

Bailey started bowling competitively about five years ago, and despite never participating at this level before, she is ready for the challenge.

"At first, I just did it for fun, and then I started getting better, and my scores improved," Bailey said.

"I went to competitions and did well. That's when I thought that I could do this.

"I'm looking forward to competing, meeting other athletes and doing my best."

'It helps people focus on our abilities'

The Special Olympics Australia National Games are held every four years.

They bring together athletes from across the country with an intellectual disability and/or autism and began in 1986.

The focus is on courage, connection, community and the power of inclusion.

More than 850 athletes will take part in this year's events, which run until October 23, in Melbourne.

Athletes will compete across 13 sports at the Albert Park sporting precinct.

Along with tenpin bowling, other sports include athletics, basketball 5v5, bocce, equestrian, football (soccer), golf, gymnastics, swimming, table tennis, tennis, netball and DanceSport, a form of competitive ballroom and Latin dancing.

Bailey said it is an important opportunity for people to see what the disabled community can do.

"They see our skills. They see our hard work. They see our determination," she said.

"It helps people focus on our abilities, not our disabilities."

Advocating for something bigger

Bailey believes the right support is necessary for anyone to achieve their goals.

Working at both the ACT Down Syndrome & Intellectual Disability Association and a local bistro, she knows the importance of feeling supported.

She said her employers are right behind her as she chases sporting success.

"They understand that sport is important to me; they encourage me to follow my goals," Bailey said.

"I am lucky. Many people don't get the opportunities I have had or have bosses that are as great as mine.

"When we have the right support, we can achieve our goals."

While competing at a national level doing something she loves is a huge personal milestone, Bailey never loses sight of the bigger picture.

With her work ethic, she hopes to show people with a disability that living the life they want is attainable.

"I've worked hard. I've spoken at the United Nations. I've represented people with disabilities," Bailey said.

"I played netball and bowl with Special Olympics; I have jobs that I love.

"I want other people with disabilities to know that they can dream big too."

This content was produced for the ABC's International Day of People with Disability coverage, which runs from November 19 to December 25, 2025.

The ABC is partnering with International Day of People with Disability to recognise the contributions and achievements of the 5.5 million Australians with disability.