By Casey OÇonnor
It seemed as though the entire Allora Community gathered this past week to celebrate and honour the success of another of Allora’s homegrown legends, Matthew Denny.
Denny was guest of honour at a the Gold’n Stars dinner in his hometown on Friday 14 October.
The sold out event was organised by Susan Higgins and the Gold’n Stars Dinner Committee, with the support of the Allora Sports Museum and the SDRC.
Denny was interview by Max Mason and shared his memories and some of the highs and lows of his remarkable journey from Allora to Commonwealth games gold medallist.
Denny thanked his parents for all they have done for him throughout his career to date.
As his mother Karen said with a smile in her voice, “It’s a good thing he was the youngest, the amount of time we spent travelling.”
Denny said, “Allora just keeps on giving. “It always reminds me that even though I have come so far, there is still a long way to go. “Thank you for everyone who came to celebrate my Commonwealth gold medal. “After being reminded of the support and love I have behind me, it gives me immense clarity on my purpose.”
That purpose of course looking ahead is a gold medal in Paris in 2024 and World championships in the lead up.
Earlier in the day Denny spent time with school kids from both the Allora State School and St Patrick’s School. There is no doubt he inspired many students to take up field athletics and in particular, Discus as he shared his story and success with the kids.
Prior to the dinner Matt also met with members of the Allora community who were not attending the dinner and while he was home caught up with a few locals at the pub.
The Gold’n Stars Dinner was held on the lawns of the Commercial Hotel.
There is no doubt Matthew’s achievements fuelled community spirit and proudly shares the wonder of his hometown on the world stage.
For a small town Allora, continues to produce amazing champions.
Matt Denny is a gentle giant. A gentleman who happens to be one of the best Discus throwers in the world but in his heart, he will always be that “kid/bloke from Allora”.
