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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY FEATURE Pages 21-27
TOLMIE SPORTS RETURNS
NUMBER ONE: Elise Empey is officially Mansfield’s Sportsperson of the Year.
Sport
PHOTO: Courtesy AUSCYCLING/Matt Rousu Photography
Elise Empey riding high Mansfield mountain biking g superstar p wins annual Sportsperson p p of the Year award MOUNTAIN biki biking superstar Elise Empey won the Sportsperson of the Year award at last week’s presentation night at the Mansfield Golf Club. The festivities were attended by over 100 people, the fervour in the crowd palpable as the evening’s proceedings got underway. Following an introduction from Rotary’s Maurie Walsh,
BY SHAUN McMAHON smcmahon@ nemedia.com.au
who’s spearheaded the organisation of the event for many years now, nominees from 2022 were presented by the mellifluous and entertaining MC Craig Willis. A great spread of sports were on display in addition
the perpetual tto th t l ffootball, tb ll netball and cricket, whose standout stars still secured worthy nominations. Local favourites tennis and golf were represented by Sarah Fox and Rod Sargent respectively, while netballers Leonie Berry and Erin Brond received nominations alongside Eagles footballer Sam Thomson. Swimming and
basketball’s b k tb ll’ youngestt stars were on display with the multi-talented Seb Walker and hoop hero Ella Mercieca receiving nominations. Sports less seen were also showcased, with Nikki Theodossi being recognised for her return to the hockey field, and local bull rider Will Purcell nominated for his rodeo talents.
Molly Lines received M ll Li i d her second nomination in as many years for her equestrian accomplishments, showing her promising future in the sport. And she was unlucky not to win, pipped at the post by fellow year 12 graduate and mountain biking superstar, Elise Empey. “I’m surprised,” said
Ms E Empey as she M h received i d the award from Mansfield Golf Club President, David Octigan. “Surprised, but very happy.” Her table of supporters didn’t appear to be surprised though, as a raucous round of applause erupted following the announcement of her win. ■ Continued page 5
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