Community Sport Awards - Congratulations to the School Award Winners

Congratulations to the Snow Australia Community Sport Awards winners. These prestigious awards recognise and highlight the individuals driving progress and making a meaningful impact at the grassroots and development levels of the snowsports community.

In particular, we congratulate the school award winners: 

• Outstanding School Achievement - Geelong Grammar Junior School (Toorak Campus)
• Spirit of Interschools - Chilli Sparke, Oxley College

• Snowsports Official Awards - Paul Livissianos, Jonathan Mandl, Mel Johnston

Outstanding School Achievement - Geelong Grammar Junior School (Toorak Campus)

GGS Toorak’s 2025 snowsports program was highly successful, inclusive, and marked by strong community involvement. A nine-week pre-season dryland training program—run with support from parent volunteers and school leadership—engaged 103 students, or roughly one-third of the school. Training sessions were tailored to different age groups and helped spark interest among many students from non-skiing families.

The school broadened access to snow sports through pre-season training, “Family Fun” days, and the GGS Cup at Mt Buller, along with clear information sessions, event guides, and a buddy system pairing experienced and new families. Subsidised coaching further supported both beginners and competitive athletes across Cross Country, Alpine, and Snowboard disciplines.

Sustained by strong fundraising efforts—including a major season-opening event and community auctions—the program financed new equipment, subsidised lessons, and staff support. Together, these initiatives strengthened participation, promoted inclusion and skill development, and reinforced a vibrant, community-driven snowsports culture at GGS Toorak.

Spirit of Interschools - Chilli Sparke, Oxley College

Chilli Sparke, Snowsports Captain at Oxley College, has been a driving force behind the school’s cross-country skiing success and community spirit. Competing in Interschools since Year 2, she has inspired many students to try cross-country skiing, mentoring and coaching younger athletes with enthusiasm and care. Chilli balances her own athletic achievements with an ongoing commitment to developing others—running before-school fitness sessions, leading roller ski programs for Oxley and Tudor House students, and fostering a welcoming, inclusive team culture.

Snowsports Official Awards

Paul Livissianos has been involved in snowsports for over 20 years as a highly respected judge and official. Serving in roles such as Head Judge, Starter, and Referee, he has contributed to countless events — from Interschools and National Championships to World Cups and even the Olympics. Known for his organisation and professionalism, Paul coordinates and mentors judges, runs judging clinics, and ensures events run smoothly by planning months in advance. He actively recruits and manages judging teams for mogul events across Perisher and Thredbo. Beyond his technical skills, Paul’s calm, friendly presence supports athletes, volunteers, and spectators alike, creating an inclusive and enjoyable environment. His dedication, reliability, and passion have made him an invaluable contributor to Australian snowsports.

Jonathan Mandl has been a dedicated and passionate member of the Australian snow sports community since 2005. Deeply involved with the Radford College Snowsports Program, he has supported generations of students by providing coaching, competition guidance, equipment maintenance, and logistical help. As a long-time Snow Australia Interschools volunteer, Jonathan is known for mentoring new officials, sharing his vast knowledge, and creating a supportive, welcoming environment at every event. Whether marshalling, gatekeeping, or teaching on the slopes, he embodies generosity, patience, and enthusiasm, making a lasting impact on athletes and volunteers alike. Respected for both his expertise and kindness, Jonathan continues to be a cornerstone of grassroots snow sports development in Australia.

Mel Johnston has led the PLC Sydney Winter School for more than 20 years, running a children’s camp and overseeing a term-long residential program for up to 15 teenage girls. The program blends daily skiing with academic study, fitness, life skills, outdoor education, and wellbeing activities. Living with the students, Mel serves as a house mother and mentor, supporting both their personal and academic development. Her leadership has helped over 150 girls grow into skilled, confident, and independent young women, with many progressing to represent Australia in skiing. The program is unique in its strong integration of sport and academics, and Mel’s dedication has been central to its long-lasting success.

 Read the 2025 Community Sport Award Stories Here