At 22, he’s proud of the life he’s created, one built on determination, family support, and opportunities made possible through the Down Syndrome Association of the Northern Territory. 

When Royal and Rex first welcomed their son, time seemed to stop. The early years were filled with uncertainty and fear. 

“It was like crossing the scrub with no track, no path, and not knowing how we would get through,” Royal says.. 

Slowly, with persistence and support, the family found its footing, and Banjo found his. Today, his life is full of sport, friendships, work, and community – proof that possibility grows when support and belief meet. 

Banjo’s milestones came later than most. He didn’t walk until after his third birthday. Every new skill came at its own pace, and each achievement felt like a hard-won victory. His progress reminded his family that growth looks different for every child. 

With that, Royal and Rex changed the conversation. They focused on what Banjo could do. 

Royal says: “If Banjo said, ‘Mum, I want to run in athletics for Australia,’ I’d say, ‘Yes, it’s possible. You’ll just have to work hard.’ Negativity doesn’t get you anywhere – focus on the positive.” 

That belief carried Banjo through school and into adulthood, where the next challenge was clear: what comes after school? For many young people with disabilities, this transition can mean isolation. For Banjo, it meant Project 21. 

Now in his fourth year, he attends five days a week. The program blends vocational and life skills – from cooking and road safety to workplace etiquette and social interaction. 

“It’s post-school learning that gets him job ready,” Royal says. “It builds independence and community.” 

Banjo grins when asked about his favourite dishes to cook: “I like cooking; pasta, curry, noodles.” 

He is also training in horticulture at Charles Darwin University and proudly graduated with a Certificate I in hospitality. 

Weekends bring more connection through Social 21. 

“Mini golf, movies, going out to eat, it’s a good time,” Banjo says. 

Like any young adult, his days are full. He trains with the Darwin Athletics Club, in the athletes with a disability track and field group. At the 2022 Special Olympics in Tasmania, Banjo represented the Northern Territory, returning with three bronze medals. 

“I did it, I won medals,” he says. 

Basketball and AFL are two passions of Banjo’s. Inspired by NBA stars, Banjo wants to join a local team. 

“I want to play in a team. Shoot hoops,” he says. 

Royal laughs, recalling how he once climbed onto the back of Dad Rex’s ute to slam dunk. 

“He never lets anything stop him. If he wants to slam dunk, he’ll find a way.” 

At home, Banjo cooks, pegs washing and mows the lawn. Mornings begin with feeding the animals on the family’s two-hectare block. His closest companion is a miniature mule named Ellie. 

For Rex, Project 21 has been transformational. 

“If Banjo had left school without something like this, I don’t know where he’d fit in. Project 21 gives him community, structure, and skills that prepare him for life.” 

One hope is that Banjo will secure part-time work, potentially in horticulture. 

“He sees himself as going to work every day, just like the rest of us.” 

Beyond skills and jobs, friendships matter most. 

“Having an intellectual disability can be isolating,” Royal says. “Through Project 21, Banjo has friends, outings, and belonging.” 

Raising Banjo has been a journey of resilience and reward. 

“At first, life stood still. But Banjo has gone beyond what we imagined. He gives 100 percent to everything and teaches us to see the good in life every day. You will always find Banjo saying, ‘I love my life’.” 

Their advice to new parents is simple, but profound: “Love your child. Focus on what they can do, not what they can’t. The rest will follow.” 

October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and for Down Syndrome Association NT, Banjo’s story is a reminder of what’s possible when a community chooses inclusion. 

Chief executive Rachel Kroes says: “Banjo’s journey shows that with the right support, people with Down syndrome can build meaningful and connected lives. Programs such as Project 21 aren’t just about skills – they’re about purpose, community and opportunity.” 

Perhaps the most thought-provoking reminder comes from Banjo himself. Out shopping, cheering at a basketball game, or dining in Darwin, he greets strangers with a smile and a simple introduction: 

“Hi, my name is Banjo.” TQ 

BANJO COMPETING IN THE LONG JUMP. PHOTO: MEAGAN DEMPSEY OF SIDELINE IMAGES