Warm welcome home for Narrabri’s Olympian Shannan Davey

Narrabri Olympian Shannan Davey has received a warm welcome home after making the shire proud during his efforts at the Paris 2024 games.

The Olympic boxer earned his selection for the games late last year after claiming gold in the Pacific Games.

With two Narrabri Olympians – Shannan and rower Laura Gourley – the shire’s eyes were firmly focused on the French capital and its two athletes.

“I definitely felt the support,” Shannan said of the shire going green and gold for its Olympians.

Shannan was supported in his Olympic efforts by family and friends who made the journey to Paris.

One person who wouldn’t have missed the experience was his number-one supporter and mother, Leanne.

“It was such a wonderful experience,” Leanne said.

“It’s a moment in time we will never forget.”

The path to the Olympics has been one of great intensity for Shannan who has given his all to continue his rise in the boxing world.

Shannan was thanked for his commitment and for making the shire proud by mayor Darrell Tiemens at a presentation at the council chambers.

He was presented with a gift of local products as well as messages of congratulations from local schools and aged care residents as well as cards which were located in shire facilities during the Olympics.

“We as a town and a shire are enormously proud of you,” Cr Tiemens told Shannan at the presentation event.

Cr Tiemens said the shire was immensely proud to see two former Narrabri students compete on the world stage. A similar presentation event was held with Laura Gourley in September.

“We love that Shannan put his best foot forward,” Cr Tiemens said.

“It is a huge achievement to represent our country, and this shire, on the world stage.

“That is something no one can ever take away from you.”

Being a full-time athlete is no easy feat, and Shannan acknowledged his supporters, including his mum, dad and family, the businesses which continue to back him as well as the community.

“Thank you for not forgetting Narrabri,” Cr Tiemens said.

While Shannan moved away so he could reach further heights in boxing, Narrabri continues to hold a special place.

“This is where it all started at 12 years old,” he said of his start in boxing.

Shannan now has his sights set on the next Commonwealth Games as well as making inroads into pro boxing.

“I hope I’ve inspired the next generation,” he said.

Following the presentation held on Friday, Shannan was welcomed at a thank you event held at the Wilga Hotel in the afternoon.

He will return to Narrabri next month to speak at an event alongside Laura Gourley.