Victory for the ages is as good as Gould

TASMANIA’S Olympic swimming legend Shane Gould has become the oldest winner in the history of television show Survivor after claiming victory and a $500,000 prize.

TASMANIA’S Olympic swimming legend Shane Gould has become the oldest winner in the history of television show Survivor after claiming victory and a $500,000 prize.

The over-50s are normally among the first to have their torches snuffed but, at 61, the Tasmanian-based Gould has defied the odds.

The sexagenarian and triple gold medal-winning swimmer beat barrister Sharn Coombes, 41, for the title of sole Survivor during Tuesday night’s grand finale.

RUNNER-UP’S ‘ENORMOUS MISTAKE’

With her win came a message for older Australians: “Being told you’re too old at 55, that’s ‘BS’.

“I’m still pinching myself,” said Gould, who has lived in Bicheno on the East Coast for the past 10 years.

GOULD HAPPY TO BE ALL AT SEA ON THE EAST COAST

“I’m just over the moon. I never ­really believed I’d do it.

“Being an older person, it goes to show that we’re not washed up, dried out and used, we’re certainly not.

“Be encouraged that even though there are a lot of social pressures that push you aside, you’ve got to fight for your ability to continue to contribute and participate in society.

“I encourage everyone, particularly women, to assert themselves and not just give up.

“Don’t just take it lying down, keep looking forward, don’t accept that older people are disposable. We have so much to contribute with our wisdom and experience.”

Shane Gould, left, celebrates winning series three of Australian Survivor over Sharn Coombes. Picture: NIGEL WRIGHT

With $500,000 in her kitty, there are a few humble items Gould has her eye on.

“I had an imaginative shopping list, but now that it’s a ­reality, I will be pretty wise about it and be careful with it and make sure it lasts a long time,” the 1972 Olympian said.

“There are a few things I’d like to get — I’d like to get a new wetsuit, another stand-up paddle board and a long lens for my camera. I want to use it for good.

“I’ll get good advice and be patient.”

Gould revealed she almost said no to the opportunity to appear on Survivor.

“It took me two months to decide,” she said.

“I wasn’t sure if it was the right thing for me. I ­really didn’t understand Survivor.

“I wasn’t sure if I would be treated right and I’ve been treated with huge respect and dignity and so I’m glad I did make the decision and glad that I was app­roached to do it.”

Gould splits her time between Sydney and Bicheno, where she has lived for more than 10 years and has business interests. She is an active member of the community and has had plenty of Tassie support since the series has been screening since late July.