Harry Jackson has been volunteering with Parafed Bay of Plenty for several years, refereeing games of boccia— a precision sport similar to petanque or bowls designed for athletes with disabilities.

At 23, Harry doesn’t have a disability himself, but his personal connection runs deep.

His mother, Jo Jackson, who was born without an arm and lives with chronic pain syndrome, is Parafed BOP’s Play and Youth Lead and Harry’s biggest inspiration.

“She’s just an awesome person, and she’s the reason I got involved,” said Jackson.

Jo runs programmes introducing disabled sport to schools across the region.

Alongside boccia, Jackson has refereed badminton games and is now training to become a coach. It’s a rewarding contrast to his full-time job as a butcher.

“Volunteering is something cool to do, and you meet some really awesome people.

“I do about an hour a week of refereeing badminton on a Thursday.”

Suzanne Morrison, Parafed’s Festival Coordinator, said Harry has a deep understanding of inclusion and the importance of creating welcoming spaces for everyone.

“He’s volunteered at the Healthvision Festival of Disability Sport and is a regular helper at Parafed’s Rotorua programmes, including boccia, badminton, tenpin bowling and the Amazing Race.

“His calm, friendly nature and willingness to pitch in make him a valued part of the team.”

Harry will again be volunteering at the Healthvision Festival of Disability Sport on May 10–11 at Baypark Arena, a two-day event featuring physically disabled athletes from around the country.

Sports include wheelchair rugby and basketball, along with inclusive ‘have-a-go’ sessions in badminton, boccia, cricket, and rugby league.

On Saturday, there will also be Tri Games (bowling, petanque and croquet) at Club Mount Maunganui, and Sailability on the water at Sulphur Point Marina, followed by an awards dinner in the evening.

The event is open to anyone with a physical disability—including those with low vision or hearing impairments—as well as their friends, whānau and supporters.

All have-a-go sessions are inclusive and open to everyone.