Janine Watson has called time on her 19-year taekwondo career, competing at an international level in both kyorugi and poomsae. Watson finishes as Australia's most decorated para athlete, leaving behind a legacy both on and off the mat.
Earlier this month, Paralympics Australia held a multisport day in Toowoomba, regional Queensland. These events are an excellent opportunity to learn more about the Para-sports and programs on offer in the local area.
Over 20 participants were able to try a variety of Para-sports, meet and speak with Australian Paralympians, connect with local Clubs and have fun.
Para Taekwondo was a sport that participants were keen to learn more about, with Tokyo bronze medalist in Para Taekwondo, Janine Watson, on hand to take participants through basic taekwondo skills, including self-defence scenarios.
“I like that Taekwondo is not just about learning a sport but also learning an important life skill that could help my children out one day. I used to do martial arts when I was a teenager and loved it; maybe I should start up again with my children,” said a parent of one of the participants.
To find out about an upcoming multisport day near you, head to the Paralympics Australia website to get invloved.
Janine Watson has called time on her 19-year taekwondo career, competing at an international level in both kyorugi and poomsae. Watson finishes as Australia's most decorated para athlete, leaving behind a legacy both on and off the mat.
The Australian Taekwondo night of nights celebrated its athletes, coaches, referees, clubs and volunteers at the 2026 Green Carpet Awards Gala. The night recognised the year's best performances on the mat and the people who make the sport run off it, with the two pinnacle medals going to Carmela Hartnett and Shrijana Ghising.
History has been made for Australian Para Taekwondo. Shrijana Ghising has claimed Gold at the 2026 World Taekwondo Para Grand Prix in Muju, Australia's first-ever Gold Medal at a World Taekwondo Para Grand Prix.
