The AOC has congratulated Geoff Henke AO on his retirement as Chair of the Olympic Winter Institute of Australia (OWIA), a role he’s held since the organisation’s inception in 1998.
AOC President Ian Chesterman says Geoff Henke’s dedication, passion and energy has transformed Australian winter sport, including the creation of the OWIA.
“Geoff has always had a vision for the advancement of winter sport in the Olympic movement and the OWIA’s very existence is testament to his capacity for bringing people with him and overcoming hurdles along the way.
“He identified the opportunity for Australia’s transformation from a smaller player at Winter Games to a significant presence. Geoff made sure we took that opportunity.
“As Chair of the Olympic Winter Institute since 1998 he has always championed the athlete, supported the coaches and been single handedly responsible for the two pieces of infrastructure that will be a legacy for generations – the O’Brien Ice House in Melbourne and the Geoff Henke Olympic Winter Training Centre in Brisbane.
“His wisdom and loyalty has seen him gather friends from all circles and gather around him a group of next-generation administrators who have benefitted from his leadership, wisdom and friendship.
“Geoff is a life member of Snow Australia, the Australian Olympic Committee, the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) and Ice Hockey Australia. He was Chef de Mission of the Australian Team at six winter Games.
“This year Australia recorded it greatest winter Olympic performance in Beijing. It’s fitting that he’s chosen this moment to call time on what has been a storied career as a sports administrator."
Mr Henke was a member of the then Australian Olympic Committee from 1984 to 2001 for many years serving as Vice President.
Mr Chesterman has also welcomed incoming Chair Dean Gosper as Geoff Henke’s replacement.
“Dean brings vast experience to the role with his own outstanding record of achievement in winter sports administration. He has had a transformative impact through his previous roles as President of Snow Australia and as Deputy Chair of the OWIA.
“Dean has been a unifier in the Snow Australia environment leading it through a period of growth and stability. Importantly, he continues to play a major role in snow sports globally as a Council member of FIS.
“With Geoff’s departure, we are fortunate to have someone of Dean’s calibre to step into this role. The future of Australian winter sport is in excellent hands,” Mr Chesterman concluded.
The history of Geoff Henke’s contribution to the winter sports community and the AOC can be found here.
