About the event
The World Transplant Games were held in Perth in 2023 and are celebrated every 4 years around the world. The games brought together over 1,300 transplant recipients and their families from 45 countries to celebrate their unique bond – ‘The Gift of Life’.
Athletes competed in various sports, showcasing their strength, resilience, athleticism, determination and the power of organ transplantation. The games:
- increased awareness of organ and tissue donation
- encouraged more people to become donors
- continued a legacy to bring lasting benefits to the transplant and donor community
- demonstrated the positive outcomes of organ and tissue donation and transplantation for games athletes and supporters.
Key event moments
The WTG 2023 provided unforgettable moments of triumph, courage and camaraderie.
This was highlighted by the WTG 2023 Parade of Nations and Opening Ceremony at Perth Stadium. Over 1,000 athletes marched across the Matagarup Bridge into Perth Stadium to open the games in spectacular fashion. An iconic heroes’ welcome was dedicated to living donors, donor families and athletes entering the stadium. The ceremony culminated with a spectacular light show and Gift of Life Baton presentation.
Did you know?
- 1 minute is all it takes to register to become an organ donor.
- 7 lives can be saved by a single organ donor.
- More than 1,800 Australians are waitlisted for a transplant.
Event impact
The WTG 2023 went beyond being just a sporting event. It fostered a sense of unity and support within the community. It highlighted the transformative power of organ transplantation, encouraging conversations and actions to save lives. Its impact:
- delivered an over 30% increase in organ donation and transplantation rates in Australia in the second quarter of 2023
- promoted registration on the Australian Organ Donor Register
- connected and provided an appreciation for donors and their families for their vital role in helping to provide the gift of life
- energised the transplant community to renew their health through sport and physical activity
- enhanced Australia’s reputation as a world leader in transplant sports and inclusive major sporting events.
Legacy
The Gift of Life Baton
A key legacy of the WTG 2023 was the creation of The Gift of Life Baton.
The iconic baton acts as a universal beacon for organ donation between World Transplant Games, providing a symbol of hope and solidarity. It represents the journey, the gift and life-changing impact of organ transplantation. It is passed from athlete to athlete, spreading a message of gratitude and inspiration while uniting participants and spectators alike. It will be passed on to future hosts of the WTG as a long-lasting legacy.
Organ Donation Ambassador Campaign
The Organ Donation Ambassador Campaign was launched at Olympic House in Switzerland. It provided a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the WTG to build ties with the International Olympic Committee and national Olympic committees around the world.
In the lead up to the WTG 2023, the campaign featured Australian Olympians:
- committed to raising awareness of organ and tissue donation
- promoting the WTG
- celebrating the gift of life.