Bundaberg Regional Council has thrown its support behind local discus athlete, Taryn Gollshewsky, providing $5,000 in funding towards her Olympic dream.
Taryn is currently in Paris preparing for the Women’s Discus Throw Qualifications tomorrow, but had a happy send off from students where she teaches at St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School.
Bundaberg Region Mayor, Helen Blackburn, was on hand to deliver the cheque to the star athlete.
“We’re here today because Taryn, our own home-grown Olympian discus thrower, has made it to the Olympics and we are so proud,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“So for Bundaberg and Bundaberg Regional Council, we’ve presented a $5 000 cheque to Taryn to help her with her expenses of getting across to Paris.”
Taryn, who has competed in three Commonwealth Games and two World Championships, said she had to qualify in the top 32 worldwide to compete at the 2024 Paris Olympics and is currently ranked 27th.
“I missed out on the 2016 Rio Olympics by 13cm and then I missed out on the Tokyo Olympics due to injury,” Taryn said.
“So I’ve been to three Commonwealth Games but haven’t quite made an Olympics yet, so this is my Olympic debut.
“It’s literally a dream come true.”
Taryn said she had already spent more than $12,000 this year alone on travel and accommodation costs in order to qualify.
“I’ve been really fortunate that I’ve been able to represent Australia and travel the world,” Taryn said.
“When I was little, when I was asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always said I wanted to be an athlete and wear a cool tracksuit and represent Australia at the Olympics.
“So, this is a childhood dream of mine and I’ve worked for 19 years with my coach, Les Kuorikoski, to make this dream come true.”
