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Ellie Cole OAM

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A ground-breaking career

At age three, Ellie Cole’s right leg was amputated after she suffered a life-threatening sarcoma cancer. Rather than dwell on adversity, Ellie has instead shown an incredible ability to overcome the odds.

In her 16 years in the pool, Ellie has risen to prolific heights and, in recognition was honoured as the flagbearer at the Tokyo 2020 Closing Ceremony.

In 2021 she became Australia’s most decorated female Paralympic athlete, with a record-breaking 17 Paralympic medals and OAM to her name.

"I may have swum my last race, but I'm just getting started with APM"

Read a full transcript of this video.

Her next step

As she approached retirement after the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, she had many achievements to reflect on - Paralympic gold medals, a Golden Moment Award, an Order of Australia Medal – including featuring in the 2020 documentary, Rising Phoenix.

In addition to being a qualified Allied Health professional (Exercise Science), Ellie wanted to continue advocating for people with disability.

"A long career as a Paralympian has certainly provided me with an insight into how others can flourish when provided with opportunities to apply their unique skills in an environment that supports them to reach their potential" Ellie said.

Ellie is incredibly passionate about the subject of diversity and inclusion, leveraging her strong platform as an athlete to highlight important causes.


"It is still significantly harder for those with a disability to secure employment and become active members of our communities."


Enabling better lives together

In 2022 following retirement from the pool, Ellie joined the APM team in her role as Ambassador for APM.

Together, Ellie and APM will work together to help drive the change agenda and shine a light on the impact that an inclusive society can have on the Australian community and business.

"I am delighted to be partnering with APM and look forward to working closely with their team towards driving social inclusion in both the workplace and our communities" Ellie said.