“It’s a great honour to be named Murray River Council Sportsperson of the Year. I was very humbled to be nominated by the committee of Echuca Moama Athletics,” she said.
“It's an award that probably pays tribute to about four decades of competing and coaching and administrating in sport.”
Now in her third year as club president, Ms Downward has overseen its membership expand to 220 Little Athletics members, plus 15 Masters and 20 Senior athletes.
As head coach, she has developed athletes to state, national and even international levels across NSW and Victoria, including her daughter, Hannah.
She is also active in nurturing the next generation of athletes as a School Sports Victoria Team Vic coach, and a strong advocate for inclusion.
Ms Downward established dedicated evenings for multi-class and disability athletes, ensuring community members can participate, achieve and feel supported.
Beyond athletics, she volunteers regularly at community events and serves in local sporting roles, including with the Mathoura Football Netball Club and Moama Recreation Reserve Committee.
With an impressive history of competing in athletics, which included overseas travel, Ms Downward is motivated to give others the same opportunities she received.
“The sport of track and field gave so much to me. As a youth, as a person in their 20s, it was who I was,” she said.
“It gave me the basis for who I became, and now what I teach.
“Why wouldn't you be trying to provide those opportunities for other people in our community?”
The council said Ms Downward’s actions showed the best of community sport.
“Her impact reaches far beyond the track, making her an inspiring role model and a most deserving Sportsperson of the Year,” it said.
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