Gold Coast 9 News presenter Dominique Loudon nominated for Harvey Norman Women of the Year

Before Dominique Loudon could talk, she was cheering for Aussie athletes. She reveals how she was first introduced to sport.

BY the time Dominique Loudon was appointed the 9 News sports presenter, she had plenty of female role models to look up to in her field.

“A lot of other women had already paved the way and broken down barriers, from Debbie Spillane to Yvonne Sampson,” she said.

“There have been situations where I’ve felt like I’ve needed to stick up for myself – but I think that’s the case for many women across different industries.”

Ms Loudon has been nominated in the sport category for Harvey Norman Women of the Year for her dedication to sports reporting, taking on a role usually bestowed to men.

Following her love for writing and performance, Ms Loudon was first introduced to sport as a baby thanks to her mum.

“My mum turned me into a State of Origin fan when I was in nappies so I’ve always been keen on football,” Ms Loudon said.

“I ended up marrying a former NRL player too, so covering sport must have been meant to be.”

She is married to ex-Penrith premiership winner Martin Lang.

MOVIE MAKER GIVING A VOICE TO THE VOICELESS

Dominique Loudon is the Gold Coast 9 News sports presenter and has been nominated for Harvey Norman Women of the Year.

FROM REBELLIOUS TEEN TO BUDDING PARAMEDIC

Ms Loudon said she’s inspired by the drive of the athletes she interviews every day and fondly remembers interviewing a national treasure.

“A career highlight was interviewing Paul Hogan at what was then called Jupiters Casino,” she says.

“He was incredibly generous with his time, and such a gentlemen. I remember doing my research for the interview and being pretty shocked at the jokes he used to get away with on his show.

“I feel incredibly lucky to be able to work out on the road every day and interview people face-to-face. Also, athletes are very positive people to engage with. They always have goals they are chasing.”

Do you know a positive female role model making a difference in the community? Nominate her now at womenoftheyear.com.au

Nominations close Sunday evening.