Pat is announced as Australian of the Year 2002
Speech made by Pat
Rafter, Australian of the Year 2002
25th January 2002
Your Excellencies, Mr Prime Minister, Ladies & Gentlemen.
This is an unbelievable honor. World rankings and winning Grand Slams have
been important to me, but I consider being named as Australian of the Year to
be the highpoint of my life so far.
When I look back on all the great Australians who have won this award, I think
of humanitarians like Fred Hollows and “Weary” Dunlop. And I think of
sporting greats like Cathy Freeman, Dawn Fraser and Tubby Taylor. So you can
imagine why I feel a bit self conscious up here. And it’s harder being in
the spotlight when you haven’t got a tennis racquet in your hand.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank a few people who’ve helped me
get here today. Thank you to all my brothers and sisters. I’ll never forget
the sacrifices that you guys made for me and that includes the reinforcement
with those well deserved smacks on the head. By the way, for those of you who
don’t know Mum and Dad had nine of us. Mum wanted four kids and Dad wanted
five, so they decided to join them together. To my girlfriend Lara who knows
me better than anyone, thank you for all your support, friendship and love,
and just being by my side.
Mum and Dad. I have tried to live by the values you taught me. And now I
strongly believe that the values we gain from our families are also the values
that shape Australia itself. For example, Mum said to me: “Treat everyone
the same, it doesn’t matter what you do or who you are. You come into the
world with nothing and you’ll die with nothing, so treat everyone the
same.” She taught me that it’s not whether you win or lose but how you
compete and conduct yourself. And I still remember the disgust she’d show
when I’d drop kick my racquet over the fence.
Dad, you taught me to give it my best, and if I lost, to accept it, and to be
nice about it. Believe me that came in handy on more than a few occasions. You
can imagine the lesson I learned when he dragged my off the court by the
scruff of my neck because I was acting up. But he made the point about
sportsmanship. Acting like a spoilt brat doesn’t turn a loss into a win.
Tony Roche, you’ve also been a father figure and a really good mate to me
over the past 8 years. You taught me perseverance. You taught me that you
don’t keep changing things just because you’d like to try a new serve or a
new backhand. You persevere and you lean to play with what you’ve got.
Thanks for everything mate.
When I was 8 or 9 I was really a scruffy little country kid with an oversized
racquet. I used to have tennis lessons at the local tennis club in Nambour.
Whenever I managed to get the ball back over the net, my coach Gavin Yarrow
would yell out: “You’re going to be number one in the world. And I’d
shout back I’m going to be top ten. And he would shout back no your not,
you’re going to be number one.” He’d set little challenges. Once he
threw me two balls at the same time and told me that if I got both of them
back over the net I’d be number one in the world. And somehow I did and
we’d dance around and round like idiots yelling: “I’m going to be number
one, I’m number one.”
What all those mentors were saying is that in this country anything is
possible if you set your mind on it and don’t accept anything less than
number one. I mention those teachings because they are based around Australian
family values and when you extend those values beyond the family they become
qualities that underpin all that’s good in Australia.
This award belongs to everyone who has helped me, as much as it does to me,
and I’d like to think that it’s not just about being successful in sport,
but it is also a recognition of the importance of those Australian values.
A good mate once told me an interesting thing about Australia. He said that in
Australia people judge you on who you are as a person. If you’re a good
bloke then let’s sit down together, grab a beer and watch the footy.
Uncomplicated and straight up front. Like Mum and Dad said, if you’re an
Australian then wherever you go in the world and whoever you meet, you treat
everyone the same. Where else could I feel comfortable calling the leader of
our country, John, and treating him like a mate! Sorry I forgot to run that by
you Mr Howard. And who would want it any other way? Everyone I meet overseas
loves an Australian and anyone who has visited here loves the country as well.
We are the lucky ones and I’m proud to be an Australian. But that doesn’t
mean we are perfect. It’s up to each and everyone of us to leave Australia a
better place than when we found it. That means looking after the environment,
even more that we do because there is only one Australia and it’s our
responsibility to protect it. We can also help by giving more to people who
might not be as lucky as we are. I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to do
that. When I was a boy I knew what I wanted and I prayed that one day I would
win a grand slam. And money meant nothing compared to winning. And years later
when I finally won that US Open John Newcombe came onto center court to
interview me for Australian television. And I remember just before the cameras
rolled I said: “Newk I want to give all the prize money to the Starlight
Foundation”. And Newk said: “Pat, let’s have a chat after the interview,
mate.” He suggested that it might be wiser to give half away that year and
to wait and see if I ever win another match. And if I did then give away more
the following year. And that’s how it went.
My good fortune meant that in 1999 I was able to set up a charity called
Cherish the Children Foundation and along with my sister Louise and my mother
we’ve been able to help hundreds of underprivileged and sick children all
around Australia.
I’d like to urge all Australians to give back something too. To whatever
level we can, whether it’s money or time. Let’s protect and promote the
Australian values that make us the envy of the rest of the world and let’s
leave Australia a better place than when we found it.
Tomorrow on Australia Day the country will recognise all those who have the
Australian values and who give back something to their communities. This year
I particularly think of those fire fighters from all over Australia who gave
up their Christmas and put their lives in danger to help out their mates. I
think everyone of them is an Australian Of The Year.
Thank you …….
| Meet an Australian No.1: Patrick Rafter |
Before he became a highly paid professional tennis player, Patrick Rafter was a scruffy little country kid with an oversized racquet. He used to have lessons at the local tennis club in Nambour, Queensland.
"Whenever I managed to get a ball back over the net, my coach, Gavin Yarrow, would yell out, 'You're going to be No.1 in the world'," Rafter said yesterday. "I'd shout back, 'top 10 will do'."
In an effort to build the young player's confidence, Rafter's coach would send two balls over the net and say, "If you can get both back to me, I promise you, you'll be No.1 in the world."
And then, one day, Pat did get both of them back, "and we danced around and around like idiots, yelling, 'I'm No.1. I'm going to be No.1."'
And so he was. Rafter achieved top ranking in 1999, the year
after he won his second consecutive US Open. Yesterday, he picked up another
prize: once-dubbed the "world's sexiest man" Rafter is the 2002
Australian of the Year.
Rafter's choice was popular but not without controversy, as
he does not live in Australia. He has a home in the tropical haven Bermuda,
where he pays no tax on an estimated $9 million annual income. Asked yesterday if he intended to return to Australia,
Rafter said he was "back now, mate" and "looking for a
place" and would probably settle on the Sunshine Coast. Rafter has previously said he lives in Bermuda because he is
anonymous there. Seven of the 32 men's seeds playing in the Australian Open
have similar reasons for living in another zero-tax haven, Monaco. Conversely,
the world No.1, Lleyton Hewitt, has a home in Adelaide, where the top tax rate
is 48 per cent. National Australia Day Council director Warren Pearson, said
a person did not have to live in Australia to be nominated for Australian of
the Year. "That was part of the discussion, when we looked at the
shortlist," he said. "I had a chat to Pat. He assures me there is no
way you can be full-time in Australia and achieve what he has on the tennis
court. But he's through-and-through Australian. I think he proved that with
the Davis Cup. And on the issue of the tax haven, I think Pat's philanthropy
more than makes up." Accepting his award, Rafter thanked his large family. He is
the seventh of nine children. "Dad wanted five kids, Mum wanted four, so
they compromised." He also thanked his "father figure and really good
mate" Tony Roche, and his girlfriend, Lara, who is expecting the couple's
child. Rafter, 29, was raised in Mount Isa, and later Eumundi, in
the Sunshine Coast hinterland. As a teen player, he failed to get into the
Australian Institute of Sport. He is much admired for his philanthropy (in 1999, he used
his prizemoney from the Australian Open to establish the Cherish the Children
Foundation) and modesty (two years earlier, he returned his appearance money
after losing a first-round exhibition match in France). Three Australian Achievers were also announced. They are
marine enviromentalist Valerie Taylor for gaining protection for sea lions,
potato cod, coral sea bird and the southern right whale; astronaut Andy
Thomas; and SBS radio head Tuong Quang Luu, for his work with refugees.
This became clear yesterday. The Prime Minister, John
Howard, said that Australia was "the most blessed democracy in the
world", very tolerant and open-hearted. Australians should allow
themselves "the legitimate indulgence of some spontaneous unbridled
national pride" but also guard against complacency. The Governor of NSW, Marie Bashir, said Australians lived in
an exceptional land and most enjoyed considerable benefits, but she reminded
them that there was "a world crisis of considerable dimensions" and
that Australians had obligations to one another, the region and the world. Tuong Quang Luu, head of SBS Radio and a Vietnamese boat
person who has worked on the Refugee Council, was named as one of three
Achievers of the Year. He agreed about the things that unite us being greater
than the things that divide us, but said society was also defined by finding
solutions to division which were not short-term considerations. He called on Australians to show compassion towards refugees
fleeing human rights violations and said children in refugee detention centres
should be released as soon as possible.
The choice of the tennis player Patrick Rafter as
Australian of the Year was less complicated, though very modern. Rafter
confirmed proudly that he and his partner, Lara Feltham, were expecting a
child in July. He was honoured more for his good works and being a
champion person than a champion tennis player. The champion gives much of his earnings to charity,
particularly the Cherish the Children Fund, which he set up to help sick
and disabled children. His home has been in the tax haven of Bermuda but
he said the couple were looking for a home in Australia, perhaps on the
Sunshine Coast. "World rankings and winning grand slams have been
important to me," he said, "but I consider being named
Australian of the Year to be the high point of my life so far." Rafter also addressed an Australia Day lunch in Sydney,
where he said there was no other country in the world where he could call
the prime minister "John, mate" and the premier
"Bobby". Donald Metcalf, the scientist hailed as the founder of
modern haemotology for isolating hormones that aid recovery from cancer,
accepted Australia Post's honour as one of six "Australian
Legend" scientists. He said at the lunch: "I could name 11 colleagues
whose accomplishments would exceed those of our cricket 11. They haven't
been entertaining people. They have been saving lives." The two other Australian Achievers also work in
scientific fields - Valerie Taylor, the marine and shark expert, and Dr
Andrew Thomas, deputy chief of the NASA Astronaut Office. John Fahey, the former premier and federal minister who
survived a cancer operation last year, is named today a Companion of the
Order of Australia (AC), for his efforts to win the Olympics for Sydney,
and for service to both parliaments. He said that if he had waited until after the federal
election for his operation, he probably wouldn't be around to collect his
honour. Mr Fahey is one of eight new ACs, the highest honour in
the Order of Australia. None is a woman. The others are Morrish Besley,
for promoting economic and social development; Professor Glyn Davis, for
public administration; Ross Dunning, for the development of transport
systems; the Rev Dr Gordon Moyes, for social welfare; Maurice Newman, for
business and trade; Dr Carlo Salteri, for industry and technological
development; and Professor Richard Johnson. Professor Johnson, inaugural chancellor of the
University of Technology, reflected the complicated times: "I believe
that Woomera and any other similar detention centre should be closed down
and those who have been detained should be granted safe haven visas."
Top ranking for Pat, the children's champion
Patriotic return by Aussie of Year
Chris Griffith and Nicolette Burke
26jan02
PAT Rafter will move back to Australia permanently to raise a family, he
revealed after being named Australian of the Year yesterday.
With the birth of his child with girlfriend Lara Feltham due in July, Rafter is planning to move back to Queensland's Sunshine Coast from his home in Bermuda.
And whether it is just wishful thinking or a confirmation of his child's gender, Rafter indicated they were having a son.
He said he could not confirm the gender of his unborn child, but constantly referred to him as a boy.
"He won't know for a long time, (but having his father as the Australian of the Year) would be exciting and pretty special for him," he said, referring to his unborn child.
"I'm setting up now back in Australia, now with Lara and everything, and the award. This move back to Australia will be a smart thing to do."
Chairwoman of the National Australia Day Council Lisa Curry Kenny said Nicole Kidman, Ian Thorpe, John Eales, Baz Luhrmann, and crocodile hunter Steve Irwin had been among the finalists for the Australian of the Year.
Rafter was humble in receiving the award, presented by Governor-General Peter Hollingworth, but could not shed light on just why he had been nominated.
"Australians must love an idiot," he said.
Old mates, political types, Olympics organisers, a man who helped forge Australia's tough immigration policies, sportsmen, and filmmakers were among 487 people who received Australia Day awards.
| Pat's proud parents say he's a worthy winner |
Australian tennis star Pat Rafter was a worthy choice for Australian of the Year, his beaming parents, Jim and Jocelyn, said today.
As Rafter ran up to his parents and planted a kiss on his mother's cheek, they both expressed their joy in seeing their son's achievements recognised.
"We're both very proud. We think he's a worthy recipient of this award," Mr Rafter said at the awards ceremony at Sydney's Admiralty House.
"I'm sure he'll do his best in following (last year's winner Lieutenant General) Peter Cosgrove, which will be a hard act to follow.
"He's been a great ambassador for Australia, and for his family, for a number of Australians around the world."
GovernorGeneral Peter Hollingworth presented the award to the world number sixranked tennis player, who is on an indefinite break from the game.
Rafter's parents said the award could mark a turning point in his life as he considered whether or not to return to competition tennis.
"I'm sure it will help Pat's growth as a person," Mr Rafter said.
In accepting the award, Rafter said his parents had taught him the important values that led him to where he was today.
"For example, mum said to me 'treat everyone the same ... it doesn't matter what you do or who you are ... you come into the world with nothing and you'll die with nothing," he said.
His father taught him to always give his best and to show good sportsmanship, he said.
"Acting like a spoilt brat doesn't turn a loss into a win.
"I mention these teachings because they are based around Australian family values and when you extend those values beyond the family they become qualities that underpin all that's good in Australia," he said.
Rafter said the award was not only a recognition of his achievements in sport, but also of those Australian values being uncomplicated and upfront, helping others and treating people equally.
"Where else could I feel comfortable calling the leader of the country, John ... and treating him like a mate," he said.
Rafter's girlfriend, Lara Feltham, acknowledged that her partner would still be "on the road" with his new responsibility.
"Luckily this time I can come and we can do short trips around Australia," she said, adding that she hoped Rafter would be around enough to change the nappies of their first baby, due in July.
During his speech, Rafter thanked Ms Feltham for her "support, friendship and love" over the past four years and confirmed they were expecting their first child.
Rafter, who founded the charity Cherish The Children in 1999, said despite his numerous sporting awards, being named Australian of the Year was the greatest honour he had received.
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MELBOURNE, Jan 25 AAP - Tennis legend Billie Jean King
was given an emotional reminder of her father's working life and the
tragedy of September 11 today when Pat Rafter received his Australian
of the Year award.
The American showed Rafter's international appeal with her reaction to the award, saying "we have much to be thankful for" that Rafter had been in the game. King's only regret was that Rafter was at a golf tournament in Perth today, rather than at the Australian Open, but she said that sentiment was "selfish". "He's standing out there and he's clean-shaven and his hair looks fantastic - just as handsome as ever," King said. "He gave a very sweet, very moving speech - it was very sincere. He ended up so appropriately, in that he really thanked the firefighters. Pat left that for the end because he probably thought deep down they deserve it over him - that's just why he's such a class act, he just gets it. My Dad was a firefighter and he just touched me with what he said." King also said Rafter's tribute to the firemen was poignant, given the large number of New York firemen who died at the World Trade Centre on September 11. She wanted Rafter here today so the sport could pay him respect for his award, but said that was Rafter's call alone. "I think he's had it, I think he's knackered and he needs a rest ... he looked so rested today when he gave his speech and I thought 'good on you'," she said. "The only thing that bothered me is he's going to end up with all this celebrating at a golf tournament (in Perth) and I think he should have been here for half an hour. I just miss him - I'm just selfish, if he's rested, that's great ... I miss seeing him here, he's a fixture, just like I still miss seeing Margaret Court on the court." Former Australian professional and TV commentator Darren Cahill said Rafter probably had done the right thing in staying away from this year's Open, while he rests from a shoulder injury. "There were probably many worthy candidates, but it's a real honour for Pat and I think he thoroughly deserved it," Cahill said. "I think it's the first Australian Open he's missed in many, many years and to come here, it would be an awkward feeling for him - I think he's done the right thing." The Australian tennis community predictably was rapt, with Davis Cup captain John Fitzgerald saying: "They got the right person." Cup coach Wally Masur added: "As far as tennis goes, nobody has done more than Pat in Australia in the last 10 years. As a person there is no one more deserving". Former Davis Cup captain Neale Fraser said whoever had decided on Rafter had "chosen well". "Pat has had a wonderful career and he's given his share back to the community," he said. |
Our Pat salutes newest Aussies
27jan02
QUEENSLANDER Pat Rafter yesterday
set foot in his home State for the first time as Australian of the Year to
welcome 680 new Aussies into the fold. Rafter, the tennis hero who received the
nation's biggest honour on Friday, was the guest of honour at Australia's
largest citizenship ceremony at Brisbane City Hall.
He received a standing ovation from parts of a crowd that included new Australians from 58 countries – Afghanistan to Zimbabwe and aged between three and 85.
"I've never been to a ceremony like that before and it was really nice, really well done," said Rafter, wearing a tie covered in Australian flags.
"The tie is Australian and I think it's pretty appropriate for today."
Young Australian of the Year, Queensland Museum curator Scott Hocknull, was also a guest at the ceremony, which included a multicultural choir, Aboriginal dancers and whip crackers.
Nilmini Weeragkody and her family from Wishart in Brisbane's south were ecstatic at becoming fully-fledged Aussies after arriving from Sri Lanka in 1997.
"It is a rare privilege," said Mrs Weeragkody, who took the pledge with husband Suranjith and children Sonakshi, 4, and Sandeep, 2.
"We know we have been chosen when millions have wanted to be in our shoes."
Mr Weeragkody, an accountant, said his only problem was working out who to support the next time Sri Lanka played cricket against Australia. "For the time being I think my loyalties will be divided," he joked.
Britons led yesterday's citizenship list with 1500 of the 8100 people sworn in around the country coming from the UK. New Zealanders were second, with about 950 Kiwis taking citizenship. Migrants from China, South Africa and India made up the top five.
Australia Day celebrations continued in Brisbane with a flag-raising in King George Square at midday, including a 21-gun salute.
A march by about 100 protesters calling for Aboriginal land rights passed by the ceremony without incident.
A parade of more than 700 performers, animals and floats crossed to the South Bank Parklands.
Festivities wrapped up with a spectacular fireworks display over the Brisbane River.
Elsewhere in the state, breakfasts, barbecues and sports
events were held to celebrate the national day.
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Rafter Australian of the year
By news.com.au staff and AAP
25jan02
TENNIS star Pat Rafter has been named Australian of the Year.
The announcement was made by Governor-General Peter Hollingworth at Admiralty
House in Sydney.
Rafter, the world number six ranked tennis player who is on an indefinite break from the game, today described the award as the "high-point" of his life.
"I consider this is an unbelievable honour to be named Australian of the Year," he told guests at Admiralty House.
"This is the high-point of my life."
Rafter thanked his family and partner Lara Feltham and said his parents taught him it was not about winning or losing.
"I still remember the stuff she (mum) showed me when I
dropped my racquet over the back fence," he said.
Fri, Jan 25 2002 3:56 PM AEDT
Tennis champion Pat Rafter has been named as this
year's Australian of the Year at a ceremony in Sydney.
Pat Rafter has won back-to-back US Open titles and has been runner up at
Wimbledon twice.
He was also ranked number one in men's world tennis for a short time, but Rafter
says it is today's award that means the most.
"World rankings and winning grandslams have meant a lot to me, but I
consider being named Australian of the Year to be the high point of my life so
far," he said.
Rafter accepted the award from the Governor-General Dr Peter Hollingworth at
Admiralty House in Sydney.
During his speech Rafter paid tribute to his father.
"Dad, you taught me to give it my best and if I lost, to accept it and to
be nice about it," he said.
"Believe me that has come in handy on more than a few occasions."
While the award recognises Rafters sporting achievements, it is also in honour
of his charity work for sick and underprivileged children.
Rafter also acknowledged that he would become a father with partner Lara Feltham
expecting a child in July.
Rafter thanked his family, girlfriend and coach for helping him along the way.
He also used his speech to ask Australians to contribute more to the community.
"I'd like to urge all Australians to give back something too," he
said.
"To whatever level we can, whether it's money or time, let's protect and
promote Australian values that make us the envy of the rest of the world and
let's leave Australia a better place than when we first found it."
Dr Hollingworth says he is confident the people of Australia will welcome the
selection of Rafter as Australian of the Year.
"The new Australian of the Year is someone who lives by the belief that
personal success brings with it a deep sense of responsibility," he said.
Jill Weeks from the Starlight Foundation, a children's charity long-supported by
Rafter, says the recognition is very well deserved.
"As you may know he has been a fantastic supporter of Starlight," she
said.
"He donated the money from his very first US Open win for us to build a
Starlight express room in Brisbane at the Mater Children's Hospital."
Achievers
The Prime Minister, John Howard, also announced the three Australian Achievers
at the Australian of the Year ceremony.
They are marine conservationist Valerie Taylor, the deputy chief of Nasa's
Astronaut Office Dr Andrew Thomas and the head of SBS Radio Quang Luu.
| Australian of Year Rafter to become father |
|
Twice U.S. Open champion Pat Rafter said after he was named Australian of the Year that he and partner Lara Feltham are expecting their first child in July. Prime Minister John Howard named Rafter Australian of the Year at a ceremony at Admiralty House in the Sydney harbourside suburb of Kirribilli. Rafter, who was briefly ranked number one in the world and was runner-up at Wimbledon the past two years, is on an indefinite break from the sport. "I consider this is an unbelievable honour to be named Australian of the Year," Rafter told guests at Admiralty House. "This is the high point of my life." Rafter thanked his family and girlfriend Feltham and said his parents, Jim and Jocelyn, had taught him life was not all about winning or losing. "I'd like to think it is not just about being successful in sport," said Rafter, who has five brothers and three sisters. "In Australia people judge you on who you are as a person." "Like mum said, if you are an Australian, wherever you go and whoever you meet in the world, you treat everyone the same," Rafter said. Australian newspapers speculated earlier this week that Feltham was pregnant. Rafter confirmed that they were expecting a child in July. After he won his first U.S. Open title in 1997, Rafter donated A$300,000 (US$156,000) of his winnings to a Brisbane children's hospital. He did the same for the Starlight Foundation for terminally ill children after successfully defending his U.S. title the following year and launched the Patrick Rafter Cherish the Children Foundation in February 1999. Rafter paid tribute to the efforts of the fire-fighters who battled more than 100 bushfires which blazed around Sydney for more than a fortnight after Christmas. "This year I particularly think that those fire-fighters from all over Australia who gave up their Christmas and put their lives in danger to help out their mates, I think of every one of them as Australian of the Year," Rafter said. Rafter's father Jim said his family was proud of the award. "We think he's a worthy recipient of this award. He's been a great ambassador for Australia, and for his family, for a number of Australians around the world," Jim Rafter said. |
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Australian of the Year - Pat Rafter Friday, 25 January, 2002 MELBOURNE, Jan 25 AAP - Tennis legend Billie Jean King was given an emotional reminder of her father's working life and the tragedy of September 11 today when Pat Rafter received his Australian of the Year award. The American showed Rafter's international appeal with her reaction to the award, saying "we have much to be thankful for" that Rafter had been in the game. King's only regret was that Rafter was at a golf tournament in Perth today, rather than at the Australian Open, but she said that sentiment was "selfish". "He's standing out there and he's clean-shaven and his hair looks fantastic - just as handsome as ever," King said. "He gave a very sweet, very moving speech - it was very sincere. He ended up so appropriately, in that he really thanked the firefighters. Pat left that for the end because he probably thought deep down they deserve it over him - that's just why he's such a class act, he just gets it. My Dad was a firefighter and he just touched me with what he said." King also said Rafter's tribute to the firemen was poignant, given the large number of New York firemen who died at the World Trade Centre on September 11. She wanted Rafter here today so the sport could pay him respect for his award, but said that was Rafter's call alone. "I think he's had it, I think he's knackered and he needs a rest ... he looked so rested today when he gave his speech and I thought 'good on you'," she said. "The only thing that bothered me is he's going to end up with all this celebrating at a golf tournament (in Perth) and I think he should have been here for half an hour. I just miss him - I'm just selfish, if he's rested, that's great ... I miss seeing him here, he's a fixture, just like I still miss seeing Margaret Court on the court." Former Australian professional and TV commentator Darren Cahill said Rafter probably had done the right thing in staying away from this year's Open, while he rests from a shoulder injury. "There were probably many worthy candidates, but it's a real honour for Pat and I think he thoroughly deserved it," Cahill said. "I think it's the first Australian Open he's missed in many, many years and to come here, it would be an awkward feeling for him - I think he's done the right thing." The Australian tennis community predictably was rapt, with Davis Cup captain John Fitzgerald saying: "They got the right person." Cup coach Wally Masur added: "As far as tennis goes, nobody has done more than Pat in Australia in the last 10 years. As a person there is no one more deserving". Former Davis Cup captain Neale Fraser said whoever had decided on Rafter had "chosen well". "Pat has had a wonderful career and he's given his share back to the community," he said. |
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Champion bloke "The
Advertiser" 26jan02 TENNIS idol Pat Rafter is preparing to move back to Australia permanently to start raising a family. Marriage may not be far off, either, for the newly crowned Australian of the Year. Expecting the birth of his first child to girlfriend Lara Feltham in July, Rafter confirmed yesterday he planned to move to Queensland's Sunshine Coast from his home in Bermuda. The dual US Open winner, whose children's charity work away from the tennis circuit is universally recognised, put his nomination for the award down to the fact that "Australians must love an idiot". The third sportsman in five years to be named Australian of the Year, he follows in the footsteps of army chief, Lieutenant General Peter Cosgrove, scientist Sir Gustav Nossal, cricketer Mark Taylor and athlete Cathy Freeman. Rafter said he could not confirm the gender of his unborn child, but constantly referred to "him". "He won't know for a long time, (but having his father as the Australian of the Year) would be exciting and pretty special for him," he said. "I'm setting up now back in Australia. Now with Lara and everything, and the award, this move back to Australia will be a smart thing to do." Governor-General Peter Hollingworth presented the award to the world number six tennis player who is on an indefinite break from the game. Rafter said he had no idea when he would return to tennis. "It's a bit up in the air. When I know, you'll know," he said. On whether marriage was on his agenda, Rafter said: "We're discussing that at the moment. We'll let you know." Among his new responsibilities, Rafter is looking to do voluntary work in times of crisis. He praised the efforts of firefighters who travelled from every state and territory to battle the Christmas-New Year bushfires in New South Wales. "I think every one of them is an Australian of the Year," he said, adding that he wanted to volunteer his own time with emergency services. "It made me think I should get down there and do that sort of thing. To do some volunteer work is something I'd like," he said. "But I'm a little bit unfit at the moment." National Australia Day Council chairwoman Lisa Curry Kenny said hundreds of people, including actor Nicole Kidman, director Baz Luhrmann and swimmer Ian Thorpe had been nominated for the award. The board's decision had been unanimous. Ms Curry Kenny said Rafter was chosen for his sporting success and his strong sense of values and contribution to the community. "We have to choose someone we think will give a lot to the community, and Pat is that person this year," she said. Accepting the award in Sydney, Rafter thanked his coach, Tony Roche, and parents Jim and Jocelyn for instilling in him the values to which he attributed his success – such as good sportsmanship, treating people equally and giving one's best. "For example, Mum said to me `treat everyone the same . . . it doesn't matter what you do or who you are . . . you come into the world with nothing and you'll die with nothing'," he said. Prime Minister John Howard echoed Rafter's sentiments, saying Australia recognised people by their achievements, not where they were born or where they went to school. |
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Everybody loves Pat Friday 25 January 2002 Everybody loves Pat. Since emerging on the world tennis scene almost a decade ago, Patrick Rafter has remained one of the sport's and Australia's favourite sons. Not only is this year's Australian of the Year revered for his good looks and oncourt deeds, but he has endeared himself to fans around the globe for the way he conducts himself on and off the court. The seventh of nine children to Queenslanders Jim and Jocelyn Rafter, he has never let or been allowed by his large family to let global fame go to his head. And Rafter's humility was never more in evidence than at Wimbledon last year. Reaching the final for the second successive year, Rafter and his supporters were desperate for a fairytale outcome in what was possibly his last appearance at the All England Club before retiring. But for the second year in a row he tasted defeat, this time to enigmatic Croat Goran Ivanisevic. Yet even at one of the low points of his career, Rafter was the most gracious of losers a factor highlighted that day by his father. "The way he handles defeat, to me it's a great man," Jim Rafter said. "We know he's a good tennis player but every time I see him lose something that he has his heart set on, I'm so proud of him the way he handles it." But Rafter has also been a great winner as well. In 1999 he took over as the world's number one tennis player the first Australian to achieve the ranking since close friend and exDavis Cup captain John Newcombe 25 years previously. The year before, Rafter beat countryman Mark Philippoussis to win his second consecutive US Open title. While injury marred his efforts for Australia in a losing Davis Cup final to France last year, Rafter over the years has performed numerous heroics in Australia's cup campaigns. He has also been a selfless hero in other ways. Three years ago the tennis star established the Patrick Rafter Cherish the Children Foundation with $180,000 donated from his earnings at that year's Australian Open. With the help of his sister Louise and mother Jocelyn, the foundation has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for numerous charities. "If I can help one child, it's worth everything to me," Rafter has said of the foundation. AAP |
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Fri, Jan 25 2002 10:45 AM AEDT Pat Rafter is Australian of the Year for 2002. Pat Rafter named Australian of the Year Tennis star Pat Rafter has been named the 2002 Australian of the Year. The Governor-General, Dr Peter Hollingworth, made the announcement at a ceremony at Admiralty House in Sydney. A statement on the National Australia Day Council website says: "Pat Rafter is an elite sportsman whose self-effacing grace and charm has captured millions of admirers in Australia and around the world. Along with realising his full potential on the tennis court, he has always acknowledged the prowess of his opponents, and has made significant contributions back to his nation. "Pat was born in 1972, the seventh of nine children, and his early years were spent living in the outback mining town of Mount Isa in Queensland. When he was eight their parents Jim and Jocelyn moved to Eumundi on the hinterland of the Sunshine Coast. He has stayed close to all his family and he sees them as an important part of his career success. "He started playing tennis on the hot bitumen courts of Mt Isa. When he first started playing full time in 1991 he wasnít able to afford to buy a new racquet. His attempt to get entrance into the Australian Institute of Sport was also unsuccessful. Undeterred, and starting with nothing except the loyal and loving assistance of his entire family, Pat started making his mark in 1993 and 1994. Since then he has won many career titles, including back to back US Opens in 1997-98. Written off by many as a 'one slam wonder' after his first US Open, his response was to acknowledge the possibility, and then go on and win the following year. "Pat is admired not just for his ability to beat the best tennis players in the world. He has an unfailing commitment to fair play, and an ability to deal with setbacks with as much dignity as his wins. In 1997, he returned his appearance money when he lost a first-round match in France because, as he said, "I didn't do a good job, so why should I get paid for it?" In 2001, after coming runner up at Wimbledon for the second year in succession, his first thought was to warmly congratulate Goran Ivanisevic. "Although the glory in tennis is largely achieved as a singles player, Pat has placed the most importance on playing as part of a team representing Australia in the Davis Cup. "Pat firmly believes that he has a responsibility to, 'put more back in than I take out.' Over the years he has given his energies to many environmental causes. In 1999, after making several donations to causes for children, he set up his own Cherish the Children Foundation. This foundation is aimed at giving assistance to kids wherever they need it. Pat said at the launch, '...there are a lot of things that we can give back to make people happy.' "Conquering the world with a self-deprecating sense of humour and giving as freely as we receive are qualities all Australians regard highly. Pat does it with ease. In all aspects of life, Pat is a good sport." |
Pat Rafter named Australian of the Year
Tennis ace Pat Rafter has paid tribute to the country's firefighters after
being named 2002 Australian of the Year.
The announcement was made on Friday by Governor-General Peter Hollingworth at
a ceremony at Admiralty House, in the Sydney harbour suburb of Kirribilli.
Accepting the award, Rafter said every firefighter who gave up their Christmas
to help battle the devastating NSW bushfires, deserved the honour of being
made Australian of the Year.
"This year I particularly think of those firefighters from all over
Australia who gave up their Christmas and put their lives in danger to help
out their mates - I think of every one of them as Australian of the
Year," he told guests at Admiralty House.
Rafter, the world number six ranked tennis player who is on an indefinite
break from the game, described the award as the "high-point" of his
life.
"This is an unbelievable honour," he said.
"World rankings and winning grand slams have meant a lot to me but I
consider being named as Australian of the Year to be the high-point of my life
so far."
He said he often thought he might pick up the Australian Sportsman of the Year
award but never dreamed he would be named Australian of the Year.
"I thought I may have won Australian Sportsman of the Year but Mick
Doohan kept getting in the way, and I was pretty hacked off at him
actually," he said.
"I thought maybe Australian Sportsman but never this award."
Rafter thanked his family and partner Lara Feltham, and said his parents
taught him it was not about winning or losing.
"I still remember the stuff she (mum) showed me when I dropped my racquet
over the back fence," he said.
National Australia Day Council chairperson Lisa Curry-Kenny said Rafter would
be a very popular choice with the people of Australia.
"For Pat, not only is he a great sportsman, but he's a great Australian
and I think he'd do a great job in the year to come," Ms Curry-Kenny
said.
Earlier this week it was reported Rafter, one of nine children, is to become a
father, with girlfriend Lara Feltham expecting a baby in July.
Pat's proud parents say he's a worthy winner
SYDNEY, Jan 25 AAP|Published: Friday January 25, 1:28 PM
Australian tennis star Pat Rafter was a worthy choice for Australian of the
Year, his beaming parents, Jim and Jocelyn, said today.
As Rafter ran up to his parents and planted a kiss on his mother's cheek, they
both expressed their joy in seeing their son's achievements recognised.
"We're both very proud. We think he's a worthy recipient of this
award," Mr Rafter said at the awards ceremony at Sydney's Admiralty
House.
"I'm sure he'll do his best in following (last year's winner Lieutenant
General) Peter Cosgrove, which will be a hard act to follow.
"He's been a great ambassador for Australia, and for his family, for a
number of Australians around the world."
Governor-General Peter Hollingworth presented the award to the world number
six-ranked tennis player, who is on an indefinite break from the game.
Rafter's parents said the award could mark a turning point in his life as he
considered whether or not to return to competition tennis.
"I'm sure it will help Pat's growth as a person," Mr Rafter said.
In accepting the award, Rafter said his parents had taught him the important
values that led him to where he was today.
"For example, mum said to me `treat everyone the same ... it doesn't
matter what you do or who you are ... you come into the world with nothing and
you'll die with nothing," he said.
His father taught him to always give his best and to show good sportsmanship,
he said.
"Acting like a spoilt brat doesn't turn a loss into a win.
"I mention these teachings because they are based around Australian
family values and when you extend those values beyond the family they become
qualities that underpin all that's good in Australia," he said.
Rafter said the award was not only a recognition of his achievements in sport,
but also of those Australian values - being uncomplicated and upfront, helping
others and treating people equally.
"Where else could I feel comfortable calling the leader of the country,
John ... and treating him like a mate," he said.
Rafter's girlfriend, Lara Feltham, acknowledged that her partner would still
be "on the road" with his new responsibility.
"Luckily this time I can come and we can do short trips around
Australia," she said, adding that she hoped Rafter would be around enough
to change the nappies of their first baby, due in July.
During his speech, Rafter thanked Ms Feltham for her "support, friendship
and love" over the past four years and confirmed they were expecting
their first child.
Rafter, who founded the charity Cherish The Children in 1999, said despite his
numerous sporting awards, being named Australian of the Year was the greatest
honour he had received.
By Natasha Skrivankova
From "The Australian":
Pat Australia's number one
From AAP
January 25, 2002
AUSTRALIAN tennis star Pat Rafter was a worthy choice for Australian of the
Year, his beaming parents Jim and Jocelyn said.
As Rafter ran up to his parents and planted a kiss on his mother's cheek, they
both expressed their joy in seeing their son's achievements recognised.
"We're both very proud. We think he's a worthy recipient of this
award," Mr Rafter said at the awards ceremony at Sydney's Admiralty
House.
"I'm sure he'll do his best in following [last year's winner Lieutenant
General] Peter Cosgrove, which will be a hard act to follow.
"He's been a great ambassador for Australia, and for his family, for a
number of Australians around the world."
Governor-General Peter Hollingworth presented the award to the world number
six-ranked tennis player, who is on an indefinite break from the game.
Rafter's parents said the award could mark a turning point in his life as he
considered whether or not to return to competition tennis.
"I'm sure it will help Pat's growth as a person," Mr Rafter said.
In accepting the award, Rafter said his parents had taught him the important
values that led him to where he was today.
"For example, mum said to me `treat everyone the same ... it doesn't
matter what you do or who you are ... you come into the world with nothing and
you'll die with nothing," he said.
His father taught him to always give his best and to show good sportsmanship,
he said.
"Acting like a spoilt brat doesn't turn a loss into a win.
"I mention these teachings because they are based around Australian
family values and when you extend those values beyond the family they become
qualities that underpin all that's good in Australia," he said.
Rafter said the award was not only a recognition of his achievements in sport,
but also of those Australian values - being uncomplicated and upfront, helping
others and treating people equally.
"Where else could I feel comfortable calling the leader of the country,
John ... and treating him like a mate," he said.
Rafter's girlfriend, Lara Feltham, acknowledged that her partner would still
be "on the road" with his new responsibility.
"Luckily this time I can come and we can do short trips around
Australia," she said, adding that she hoped Rafter would be around enough
to change the nappies of their first baby, due in July.
During his speech, Rafter thanked Ms Feltham for her "support, friendship
and love" over the past four years and confirmed they were expecting
their first child.
Rafter, who founded the charity Cherish The Children in 1999, said despite his
numerous sporting awards, being named Australian of the Year was the greatest
honour he had received.
Rafter Named Australian of the Year
... and announces he's a dad-to-be
Pat Rafter was named '2002 Australian of the Year' in Sydney
on Friday. Rafter, who has also revealed that he and long-time
girlfriend Lara Feltham are expecting their first baby mid-year,
received the award in front of Australian Prime Minister John
Howard.
Rafter said: "This is an unbelievable honor. World rankings
and winning Grand Slams have meant a lot to me, but I
consider being named 'The Australian Of The Year' the
high-point of my life so far."
The back-to-back US Open champion and dual Wimbledon
finalist was recognized for his efforts on and off the court,
including his strong commitment to charity. He continues to
work heavily with his own Cherish The Children Foundation.
"I've been able to help hundreds of underprivileged and sick
children all around Australia. I'd like to urge all Australians to
give back something to. To what ever level we can, whether
it's money or time, let's protect and promote the Australian
values that make us the envy of the rest of the world."
In his acceptance speech, Rafter praised the firefighters who
tirelessly fought the NSW Christmas bushfires. "This year I
particularly think that those firefighters from all over
Australia, who gave up their Christmas and put their lives in
danger to help out their mates, I think of every one of them as
Australian of the Year."
The National Australia Day Council outlined the reason for
bestowing the honor on Rafter in the following statement:
Pat Rafter is an elite sportsman whose self-effacing grace and
charm has captured millions of admirers in Australia and
around the world. Along with realizing his full potential on the
tennis court, he has always acknowledged the prowess of his
opponents, and has made significant contributions back to his
nation.
Pat was born in 1972, the seventh of nine children, and his
early years were spent living in the outback mining town of
Mount Isa in Queensland. When he was eight their parents
Jim and Jocelyn moved to Eumundi on the hinterland of the
Sunshine Coast. He has stayed close to all his family and he
sees them as an important part of his career success.
He started playing tennis on the hot bitumen courts of Mt Isa.
When he first started playing full time in 1991 he wasn't able
to afford to buy a new racquet. His attempt to get entrance
into the Australian Institute of Sport was also unsuccessful.
Undeterred, and starting with nothing except the loyal and
loving assistance of his entire family, Pat started making his
mark in 1993 and 1994. Since then he has won many career
titles, including back to back US Opens in 1997-98. Written
off by many as a "one slam wonder" after his first US Open,
his response was to acknowledge the possibility, and then go
on and win the following year.
Pat is admired not just for his ability to beat the best tennis
players in the world. He has an unfailing commitment to fair
play, and an ability to deal with setbacks with as much dignity
as his wins. In 1997, he returned his appearance money when
he lost a first-round match in France because, as he said, "I
didn't do a good job, so why should I get paid for it?" In 2001,
after coming runner up at Wimbledon for the second year in
succession, his first thought was to warmly congratulate
Goran Ivanisevic.
Although the glory in tennis is largely achieved as a singles
player, Pat has placed the most importance on playing as part
of a team representing Australia in the Davis Cup.
Pat firmly believes that he has a responsibility to, "put more
back in than I take out." Over the years he has given his
energies to many environmental causes. In 1999, after
making several donations to causes for children, he set up his
own Cherish the Children Foundation. This foundation is
aimed at giving assistance to kids wherever they need it. Pat
said at the launch, "...there are a lot of things that we can give
back to make people happy."
Conquering the world with a self- deprecating sense of humor
and giving as freely as we receive are qualities all Australians
regard highly. Pat does it with ease. In all aspects of life, Pat
is a good sport.