A champion’s tale

By Matt Romania

Paralympian swimmer and author Matthew Levy OAM completed a tour around Moorabool last week as part of his book and speaking tour.

Coming from Queensland, Mr Levy chose Bacchus Marsh as the Victorian destination to meet and connect with a new community and share his wisdom.

He competed at five consecutive paralympic games, winning three gold medals, holding world records, and being recognised for services to sport with The Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).

The free community held at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall, opened with a performance from local musician CYNTA, welcoming attendees with a mix of cover songs and original pieces.

Mr Levy spoke about his journey from brain, heart, and lung surgery to becoming a champion athlete, and now motivational speaker and author.

Questions poured in from attendees, some local and some who made the trip into Bacchus Marsh to be part of the event, with strong interest in resilience and moving forward through difficult moments.

“We only have one opportunity in life to make the most of it,” Mr Levy said.

“We don’t get this day back. We don’t have any do-overs. It’s important to make the most of every day and every opportunity.”

For Mr Levy, in everyday life, the big thing is understanding that every day can be a good day.

“Find that positive moment, as it’s important to keep moving forward even if you don’t feel like it right now,” he said.

Event attendee Noah Barlow said his greatest takeaway was not to let “anything stop you and you can do anything if you set your mind to it”.

“It’s so important to focus on an athlete’s achievements and how hard they have had to work and not just their story.”

Mr Levy expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to spend a couple of days in the Moorabool Shire, meeting small business owners, upcoming athletes, and connecting with those interested in improving opportunities for young athletes.

“Thank you to Moorabool Shire Council, Kristie, Mary, and the team at Moorabool Libraries, as well as the Moorabool News for the support. Bacchus Marsh CWA and CYNTA were also fantastic. I hope to come back again,” he said.

For those who couldn’t attend the community event, Mr Levy’s new book ‘Going the Distance’ will be available to borrow at the Lerderderg Library, Ballan Library, and the Mobile Library Van.