It’s been an absolute whirlwind since returning from what was a very successful Olympic Games for me. Only in the last couple of weeks have my feet had time to touch the ground. From the day the very successful Australian Olympic Team touched down in Sydney until Christmas I have been on the go non-stop. There were welcome home functions, awards evenings, sponsor commitments and public speaking engagements galore. It was a very busy and stressful time, but I eventually made it through.

I was able to get home to Mullumbimby to catch up with my family over Christmas. It was really nice to have a week or so to myself where I could enjoy spending some time with my husband and family. After a fairly restful Christmas break I returned to Canberra to start contemplating what I am supposed to be doing with the rest of my life. When you have been doing something for as long as I have been swimming for (my whole life!), change can sometimes be a little unsettling. I have been fortunate enough to retain a couple of sponsors, including Fuji Xerox, which I am very grateful for, but it is time now for me to try and decide on a career path and direction for the rest of my life.

I have prepared for life after sport by completing a Bachelor of Applied Science in Sports Administration. I actually graduated while I was over in Athens competing at the Olympics. It was a long 7 year haul to get the degree done, but it is an achievement that I am very proud of, and it has at least given me some direction. I would like to put my sports admin. degree to some good use by gaining employment in the sporting industry. I love sport and would certainly like to stay involved in some capacity, even if it is sitting behind a desk rather than being in the pool. Having a family is also a priority for my husband and I at the moment. Hopefully, with any luck, it will happen sooner rather than later! I am looking forward to the future with both excitement and apprehension. I know that change is never easy, but I’m positive that if I put my mind to whatever I choose, I can make a success of it.

I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Fuji Xerox for their support, particularly over the last year or so. Fuji Xerox is a very easy and friendly company to be involved with. I have enjoyed meeting many staff members and attending the various functions. I hope in some way that you have all been able to share in my recent successes. Thanks again and I look forward to catching up with all again soon.