The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) has paid its respects to the late Jim Ferguson AO with a memorial service at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in Canberra on Saturday.
Mr Ferguson served as ASC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) from 1990 to 2000, the longest tenure in the organisation's history. His decade in the role had a wide and long-lasting impact on Australian sport, leading the ASC and the AIS in the lead up to the Sydney 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Under his guidance, the AIS expanded significantly, with the introduction of new sport programs such as golf, women's road cycling and water polo, while also overseeing the growth of sport science and sport medicine services and research.
ASC CEO Kieren Perkins OAM paid tribute to Mr Ferguson as a respected leader who helped shape Australia's modern sport system.
"Jim's legacy endures in the strength and structure of Australia's sport system and in the many programs and partnerships developed during his leadership. His contribution will be remembered by those who continue to work across Australian sport.
"I experienced first-hand the support and benefit of Jim's leadership in the lead up to Sydney, with his efforts playing a major role in the success of the 2000 Games.
"On behalf of the Australian Sports Commission, I thank him for his service and dedication to sport and extend our condolences to Jim's family and friends. Vale."
