Bundaberg Regional Council has thrown its support behind local boxer Shannan Davey as he prepares to compete at the Paris Olympics next month.
In May’s Ordinary meeting, Mayor Helen Blackburn shared with Council Shannan’s story and proposed to donate $5,000 to the boxer, which passed unanimously.
Mayor Blackburn paid homage to Shannan’s local ties, commitment to the community and his sporting career.
“Shannan moved to our region over four years ago to train with Attila Kovacs – he chose our region to help him pursue his dreams,” she said.
“Bundaberg has had its fair share of local athletes who have made it onto the world stage and who have proudly paid tribute to their community.
“Heading to and preparing for the Olympics is unfortunately not a very affordable exercise.
” Shannan and his family have made significant sacrifices to pursue his dream of Olympic glory.”
The Mayor said the community was proud to support Shannan in achieving his Olympic dream as he makes his way to Paris to compete in the 71kg category.
“$5,000 will go towards his travel and associated costs to represent the Bundaberg Region and Australia at the 2024 Paris Olympics.”
Shannan’s boxing story
The 2024 Paris Olympics will not be the first major event for the rising boxing star, with Shannan already a 2x Australian Champion.
Last year the 24-year-old travelled to Uzbekistan, north of Afghanistan, for the Men’s World Boxing Championship in the 71kg division and continues to compete locally, nationally and throughout the world.
Boxing for 10 years, Shannan said it was a deal with his older brother that persuaded him to put on the gloves for the first time to see what he was made of.
Read more about his journey here.
