The 2012 Australian Deaf Games finished in spectacular fashion in Geelong on Saturday night with a Gala closing ceremony at Deakin Universities Costa Hall. Close to 1000 people attended the event and they were entertained by a fantastic dance performance and the presentation of the major Awards for the evening.

8 days of fantastic competition were brought to a close by DSA president Brent Phillips who made the announcement that South Australia and the city of Adelaide would host the 2016 Australian Deaf Games with DSRSA President Tim Morgan accepting the ADG flag from DSRV president Grant Roberts. 

The coveted John M Lovett Cup (formally the ADSF Cup) was won by host State Victoria with DSRV president Grant Roberts accepting the trophy from Jill Lovett to the applause and cheering from Victorians in the crowd. The official placings for the Cup were:

• Victoria
• New South Wales
• Queensland
• South Australia
• West Australia
• ACT

Victorian sports minister Hugh Delahunty presented the Athlete of the Games Trophy to Jack Besley who dominated the ADG Golf event with an 8 under par tournament which featured a sizzling 66 on the final day at the tough 13th Beach Golf course. Geelong Mayor John Mitchell presented the NSW Men's Golf team with the team of the Games trophy in recognition of their outstanding team performance in taking out the ADG team golf event.

Brent Phillips presented the 2011 DSA sports awards to the following recipients:

• 2011 DSA Male Athlete of the year - BRIAN LOCKYER
• 2011 DSA Female Athlete of the year - JAMIE-LEE LEWIS
• 2011 DSA MEDIA AWARD - NETWORK TEN
• 2011 DSA ORGANISATION OF THE YEAR - SWIMMING AUSTRALIA
• 2011 DSA VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR - ANNE JEAVONS

Another highlight of the evening saw DSA Vice President David Peters presented with DSA Life Membership which was presented by DSA President Brent Phillips. David was a humble and worthy receipient of the award which is due recognition of his over 30 years contribution to Deaf Sports Australia.

Conrgatulations to Games chairman Phil Harper, the GOC team, City of Geelong, Volunteers and everyone who was involved in the 2012 Australian Deaf Games.

We look forward to seeing you all in Adelaide in 2016!