Olympic gold medallist, world champion swimmer & Founder of Klim Swim

We have been able to successfully grow a passionate swimming community and have raised awareness of water safety here on the island.
Tell us your story – how did you get here?
I’m lucky to have found my passion for swimming early in life which has shaped my character and identity for many years. Life after sport, I transitioned into a career in both health and beauty which furthered my skills and learnings. Recent health circumstances and Covid made me reassess my priorities and my path, which has led me back to the sport I fell in love with, and I also found solace in using my voice and profile for the greater good.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Throughout my life I’ve transitioned through a few varied careers from professional sport to the retail sector, health and wellness, and in recent times, swim coaching and mentorship. Each of those chapters were rewarding and fulfilling in their own right, but my success in the swimming pool is something that resonates with most people, so that period stands apart from the rest.
What impact have you made in Bali?
As part of Klim Swim here in Bali, we have been able to successfully grow a passionate swimming community and have raised awareness of water safety here on the island. The inclusion of the annual Klim Swim Invitational at Finns Rec Club has given the swimming community an opportunity to compete against the best swimmers in Bali, Indonesia and the world.
What does the future look like for you?
Having discovered a new paradigm in life, I’ve been fortunate to inadvertently become a spokesperson for sufferers of CIDP (a condition I was diagnosed with three years ago) not just in Australia but around the world. This position has given me a voice to raise the awareness of the condition and the importance of plasma donations which are in very high demand for the production of medicines required to treat autoimmune conditions such as mine.
At Klim Swim, I have enjoyed seeing the evolution of the younger generation, so I hope to continue to deliver a high level of swimming tuition through our camp, clinics and overall programme to swimmers around the globe.
What do you love most about Bali?
Bali is home. This is where my family is. I love that there is so much diversity and activity to explore such as visiting Nusa Lembongan for a snorkelling trip, or walking along the beach with my dog Yuki, or the amazing food and culture. It has ever-changing and progressive energy. Even if you have a bad day with local traffic, there is always the beauty of a sunset, the ocean or the amazing people that make you realise how lucky we are to call this island home.
If you could excel at any other sport, what would it be and why?
I’d have to say basketball. I played basketball as a teenager and had to prioritise swimming (lucky I did that!). It’s also a sport my son enjoys the most, so I’d hopefully gain some cred in his books.
Who is your Local Legend and why?
Will Meyrick. Will pioneered the culinary scene here in Bali and continues to evolve while continually embracing the Bali influence. Hujan Local is definitely one of the best and one of my favourite restaurants.