Together with Kurt Fernley (NSW Australian of the Year), Jarrod Wheatly (NSW Young Australian of the Year) and Sophie Smith (NSW Hero), Heather will be heading to Canberra with the award nominees from the other states and territories on 25 January where the 2019 Australian of the Year will be announced.
Following the death of her late husband, Heather joined a local walking group and started participating in fun runs in her late 70s. She soon discovered that she was remarkably quick, and just before her 85th birthday in 2011 competed in her first Australian Masters Games. During these games, Heather won her four gold medals in the race walking events. Just seven years later at the age of 92, Heather now has over 30 gold medals and holds eight Australian and six world records in race walking for her age group. Heather is the true embodiment of “it’s never too late to start” and is an incredible example of how important it is to maintain your health and wellbeing as you age.
On top of her athletic achievements, Heather has also participated in the Relay for Life since 2002 and in 2018 was named the Cancer Council’s March Charge Ambassador. In 2014, Heather was awarded the Order of Australia medal for her involvement in the Relay for Life and her service to the Masters Games.
Heather’s biggest motivation is her late husband who told her “now is the time to show your mettle”, which Heather has gone above and beyond to achieve. We are incredibly proud to support Heather and would like to wish her and all the other nominees the best of luck in Canberra in January.
We are proud to be a supporter of Heather Lee and also of the other causes we support. You can find out more about these on the BRS “Making a Difference” page.
