Scooter to be given Keys to the City

Published: 17 September 2021. (Note: information was correct at date of publication but may have since been changed or superseded.)

Cairns dual Paralympian medallist Grant “Scooter” Patterson will receive the Keys to the City in recognition of his efforts in Tokyo.

Known as Scooter because of the tricycle he rides everywhere, he claimed two medals at the Tokyo Paralympics – a bronze in the 150m medley and a silver in 50m breaststroke.

This was Scooter’s second Paralympics, having previously represented Australia at the 2012 London Games, where he swam in two finals but did not win a medal.

The recipient of Cairns Regional Council’s Sportsperson of the Year at the 2021 Australia Day Awards, he became a hit during the Tokyo Games through his inspiring performances and his sense of humour.

“This is the least we can do to recognise his amazing feats,” Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said.

“What he has achieved, two Paralympic medals, is remarkable and when you hear him talk you can’t help but be inspired.

“I can’t think of another person from this city who has won an individual Paralympic medal, nor captured the hearts of the world the way Scooter has done.

“His drive and passion to overcome so many obstacles on the way to competing at the Paralympics serves as an inspiration for so many people in our community, particularly those with a disability.”

Council will present Scooter the Keys to the City as part of a special public celebration on 1 October at Tobruk Memorial Pool at 3pm.

“We are finalising details for the celebration and will provide more information closer to the date,” Cr Manning said.

“However, I can confirm the event will be open to public, there will be some special guests, and I would encourage anyone who would like to meet one of our truly inspirational residents to come down on the day and join us in recognising Scooter’s remarkable efforts.”