2027 WDPC Organising Committee
CindyLu Bailey, OAM OC Co-Chair
CindyLu is one of Australia’s most accomplished deaf swimmers. She has proudly represented Australia at the Deaflympics and Commonwealth Games. Beyond the pool, CindyLu has served as Assistant Technical Director at numerous Deaflympics and World Deaf Swimming Championships. A former Chairperson of NSW Deaf Sports, she was also Co-Patron of the 2024 Australian Deaf Games. CindyLu is the new Patron of Deaf Sports Australia and currently serves as Team Manager for the 2025 Australian Seals Deaf Swim Team.
Dr. Richard Sharpe OC Co-Chair
Richard JP is a lifelong Judoka, a Black Belt, a national medalist, and a Gold Member of the Black Belt Register. He has served as Treasurer and Vice President at Judo NSW for many years. Additionally, Richard JP has contributed to numerous voluntary roles with The Salvation Army Australia. He has also served as Assistant Governor and Foundation Mentor at Rotary International, as well as the inaugural Vice President and Foundation Mentor at Rotary District 9685. Currently, Richard JP is a key supporter of our Deaf Pickleball World Championships 2027.
Debbie Larkin OC Special Assistant
Debbie has been involved in organising National and International Deaf Sports Championships since 2008. With a strong background in logistics, she played a key role in the World Deaf Golf Championships, coordinating volunteer schedules. She currently works in primary education in New South Wales, bringing her passion for inclusion to the classroom. Debbie is a former Secretary of NSW Deaf Sports and remains active in Deaf Golf NSW. Her continued dedication positively impacts the deaf sporting community across Australia.
David Larkin OC Finance
David is a former Deaflympian who represented Australia in Men’s Volleyball at the 2005 Deaflympics in Melbourne. Beyond competing, he has served on various boards and committees supporting deaf sport. David works as a professional engineer and has held leadership roles, including Treasurer and Assistant Secretary of NSW Deaf Sports. He remains an active player in Deaf Golf NSW. His experience and dedication contribute significantly to the growth of deaf sports in Australia.
Reed Gershwind OC Liaison
Reed is an avid pickleball player and member of both Pickleball Australia and USA Pickleball. He continues to be involved with the Deaf Sports community and ICSD. Reed will oversee international relations and resources.
