Bundaberg-born Olympian Isaac Cooper is among five of the region’s standout swimming talents being honoured through a new project at the Bundaberg Aquatic Centre.
The Olympic Walk recognises the achievements of Isaac and fellow featured swimmers Chantel Wolfenden, Tracey Oliver, Michele Pearson and Rosemary Lassig, immortalising their contributions to elite sport and their representation of both the Bundaberg community and Australia on the world stage.
Isaac’s own swimming career includes a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games as part of Australia’s 4 x100 m mixed medley relay team.
Speaking about being part of the current Bundaberg Regional Council project, Isaac said it was “a real honour”.
“The Olympic Walk is a great way to celebrate the sport and hopefully inspire young athletes to believe that big things and big dreams can come true from regional communities like ours,” he said.
“Facilities like the new Bundaberg Aquatic Centre give young swimmers an incredible opportunity to develop their skills and chase their goals – it’s exciting to see what it’ll offer the next generation.”
Reflecting on his connection to Bundaberg, Isaac said the region would always hold a special place in his heart.
“Bundaberg will always be home.
“It’s where I learned to swim, where I built my foundations and where so many people backed me before anyone else knew my name,” he said.
“The community gets behind you; they genuinely care and that support stays with you wherever you go.”
Isaac also offered advice for aspiring young swimmers from regional communities just like his own hometown.
“Don’t be afraid to dream big, even if it feels a long way off,” he said.
“Just focus on getting a little bit better each day, listen to your coaches and enjoy the process.”
The Olympic Walk, situated at the entrance of the Bundaberg Aquatic Centre, honours athletes from both the Olympics and Paralympics.
The project will be reviewed every four years in line with the Olympic cycle to ensure newly eligible athletes were recognised.
Community members are encouraged to submit nominations for future Olympic Walk inductees via email to ceo@bundaberg.qld.gov.au.
Find out more about the project here.
