Betty Cuthbert farewelled by Olympic legends, family and friends

Dawn Fraser, Raelene Boyle and AOC president John Coates are among those who have arrived at her funeral in Perth.

Raelene Boyle arrives for Betty Cuthbert "The Golden Girl" at Mandurah Performing Arts Centre.

Olympic legends including Betty Cuthbert’s dear friend Dawn Fraser have arrived at her funeral south of Perth.

Swimming great Fraser, three-time Olympic track medallist Raelene Boyle and Australian Olympic Committee president John Coates are among those at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre for a service with Cuthbert’s family and longtime carer Rhonda Gillam.

The golden girl died aged 79 on August 6 after living with Multiple Sclerosis for almost 50 years.

Dawn Fraser poses for a photo with Henk Vogels during the funeral service for Betty Cuthbert.

A silver order of service for Cuthbert says Coates will speak about Cuthbert’s athletic achievements — she remains the only runner in history to have won Olympic gold in the 100m, the 200m and the 400m.

Cuthbert grew up in Sydney and lived to Western Australia in 1991.

Her twin Marie “Midge” Johnston will light a candle of remembrance at the service. Cuthbert’s Neice and nephew Peter and Louise will speak to the service about their own memories.

Veteran sports broadcaster Bruce McAvaney will also speak.

Margaret Court attends her friend’s service.