Up Close with 5x Olympian Nat Cook

POSTED April 14 2026 , News, Senior School

A highlight of our 105th birthday year was welcoming five‑time Olympian Natalie Cook OAM OLY as our Bishop Riley Memorial Speaker. Held every five years as part of our celebrations, these sessions connect students with individuals whose lives exemplify resilience, purpose and service. Natalie’s visit brought these themes to life across two days for our Senior School girls.

Natalie presented to all Senior School year groups, challenging the girls to consider what it means to “show up like a winner”, reminding them that success is built on daily habits, not headlines. Her message, grounded in discipline, self‑belief and the power of purposeful action, resonated strongly, and she encouraged them to ask themselves each day, “What did I win at today?” and to recognise that perseverance, especially when plans go awry, is a skill that can be trained.

Natalie’s contribution extended well beyond her year group presentations. On the morning of the IGSSA Swimming Carnival, she joined our Interschool Swim Team at their team breakfast, offering a motivating address that set a positive tone for the day. The team went on to deliver an outstanding performance, securing a place on the podium with St Mary’s finishing third.

Being a celebrated Olympic Beach Volleyball gold medallist, Natalie led training sessions with some of our top volleyball players, bringing professional insight, energy and humour to the court. She also visited our Year 12 Physical Education Studies classes, where students are currently exploring biomechanics and exercise physiology. Her input helped the girls apply their understanding by providing real-world context.

Throughout the week, Natalie’s authenticity and clarity of purpose made a meaningful impact on students and staff alike. Her passion for legacy and purpose, and her commitment to supporting athletes through fundraising and advocacy, provided the girls with a powerful example of values‑led leadership, and we thank her for being so generous with her time.  

You can view a video of her time with us here.