Biography

Born in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, Melissa and her family moved to Australia in 1986 initially settling in Beechworth, Victoria at the age of 8 years  

In 1990, after the family moved to Hobart, Melissa joined with the City of Glenorchy Swimming Club (now known as The Hobart Aquatic Club).   Along with her Sister Jolene, Melissa trained under the direction and guidance of Head Coach Chris Wedd.

She competed internationally with the Australian Para Swim team from 1994 and retired from the sport after the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games.  Following retirement completed a degree in Education before establishing a career in sport facility management. 

Sporting Achievements

2000    Paralympic Games, Sydney
                Silver Medal, 400m Freestlye
                Silver Medal, 100m Freestlye
                Bronze Medal, 4 x 100m Freestlye Relay
                Bronze Medal, 4 x 100 Medley Relay

1996    Paralympic Games, Atlanta
                Gold Medal, 400m Freestyle
                Gold Medal, 4 x 100m Frestyle Relay
                Silver Medal, 100m Freestlye
                Silver Medal, 100m Butterfly
                Bronze Medal, 100m Backstroke

1994    Commonwealth Games, Vancouver

community and career

Community Involvement


2014|15 Rotary Tasmania Membership and Retention Director
2013|14 Club President - Rotary Club of Tamar Sunrise

Career:

2015 | Chief Executive Officer, YMCA of Hobart

2008|14: Centre Manager, Launceston Aquatic
2002|08: Programs Coordinator, The Hobart Aquatic Centre

Education:

Bachelor of Education, University of Tasmania
Elizabeth College
Ogilvie High School

Competition hightlights

1994 Commonwealth Games
Vancouver Island, Canada
Silver Medal, 100m Freestyle
Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games
Opening Ceremony
Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games