The Australian Government today recognises the enormous contribution of swim coach and sports administrator, Don Talbot, AO OBE.
Minister for Youth and Sport, Richard Colbeck, said Mr Talbot, who passed away on Tuesday, exemplified the kind of leadership qualities that resulted in him being regarded as one of Australia’s greatest coaches.
“Mr Talbot’s career was not only marked by a golden era in the pool, but also as he continued to create pathways for elite sports men and women as the inaugural director of the Australian Institute of Sport,” Minister Colbeck said.
“He was a giant of sport who will be long remembered for not just helping Australia’s elite swimmers make their mark in world competition – but to dominate it.”
Mr Talbot was instrumental in helping nurture and create greater opportunity for athletes as the director of the AIS when it first opened 40 years ago.
“He understood the ingredients that were needed for success from the ground up – spurring on and helping nurture ambition and drive in each individual, while helping create and reinforce a sporting framework to support them.
“There is much to be said of his record of achievement, but in the hearts and minds of so many, he will be remembered as someone who championed success at every level and used it to unite Australians everywhere as we cheered from the stands.
“I extend my sincere condolences to Mr Talbot’s family, his friends and the Australian swimming fraternity.”
