Harriet Hudson: Accolades flow from council, community for Warwick Olympic bronze medallist

‘You can’t underestimate what you do with performances like that’: The Rose City sports legend has received a nod from some of the region’s big wigs in recognition of her epic achievements.

Southern Downs councillors are the latest members of the community to publicly acknowledge the epic achievements by Warwick Olympian Harriet Hudson.

The rowing star and her Australian teammates won bronze in the quad sculls event at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games in August, bringing the first Olympic medal in decades back to the region.

Harriet was recognised with an award from Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi and his fellow representatives at this week’s council meeting, honouring the athlete’s inspiring contribution to the community.

“We’re here to present to Harriet a small certificate in recognition of the wonderful pride that you’ve brought to our community,” Cr Pennisi said.

Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi with Warwick Olympian Harriet Hudson. Picture: SDRC / contributed

“Harriet, you can’t underestimate what you do to communities with performances like that. It really breathes that air of hope into people and their pride of community, and we’re really grateful for your contribution and what you’ve done.”

Cr Pennisi said it was a privilege to welcome Harriet to council chambers and hoped to be able to do the same for the region’s other Olympians in the near future.

Harriet has been eager to give back to the community since her return to Warwick, heading to her former primary school Wheatvale State School to encourage the small town’s next generation to dream big.

She has also ranked in at 31 in the Daily News’ list of Warwick’s 50 most powerful figures for 2021 for her inspiring efforts.