Northcote frisbee player Katie Lock joins This Girl Can campaign

A transgender swimmer’s petrifying plunge into her local pool is one of many stories inspiring Victorian women to get active. Found out how exercise has played a key part in her life.

Swimmer Michelle McNamara is an ambassador for the This Girl Can campaign.

Alphington swimmer Michelle McNamara is one of the new faces inspiring Victorian women to get sweaty.

VicHealth’s This Girl Can campaign is an effort to inspire women to move past fears of judgment and get active.

Ms McNamara is a campaign ambassador and said she loved that her story could help others become active.

Northcote frisbee player Katie Lock is also featured. Picture: Ellen Smith

The 64-year-old began hormone treatment to transition from a man into a woman.

But rather than worrying about what she looked like in swimmers, she hit the pool to stay fit and healthy.

“Being an ambassador has encouraged me to maintain my exercise regimen and has contributed to my physical and mental wellbeing. Helping others overcome barriers to exercise has been really uplifting,” Ms McNamara said.

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She encouraged other to get involved and share their positive message.

VicHealth active chief executive Dr Lyn Roberts said the campaign inspired people by promoting “real” women and their fears and struggles.

For more information about the campaign visit the This Girl Can website.

@richardapearce