Rebekah Weller named Mandurah’s sports person of the year

Ten awards were handed out, with Weller taking out the City’s top individual sporting honour.

As modest as ever, the Peel Aquatic Club swimmer said she was surprised to hear her name called out for the award.

“I was shocked. I’m absolutely stoked and over the moon about it but I was in shock when they said my name,” she said.

“I am so grateful for it because I know I was up against some really good athletes. All of the candidates had done so well over the year.”

Weller’s nomination for the award came off the back of a stellar 2016 swimming season, which saw her conquer milestones on state and national levels.

In 2016 she finished second in the 19.7-kilometre Rottnest Channel Swim and took out a win in Perth’s Port to Pub race, a 25-kilometre ultra-marathon.

She also finished second in WA’s state titles and eighth in the national competition.

The up and comer spends between 18 and 20 hours in the pool each week, and drives to competitions anywhere between Albany and Geraldton.

Mayor Marina Vergone said the City of Mandurah Sports Awards provided an opportunity to recognise local athletes and sporting volunteers.

“There are thousands of people in our community who are passionate about local sports, and the awards highlight their dedication and contribution,” she said.

“Congratulations to the winners on their outstanding performance both on and off the field over the last 12 months.

“The passion and dedication of volunteers and local sporting clubs keep our athletes competitive and strong, so it’s also important that we recognise the role they play in nurturing the talents of our future sporting greats.”

Peel Thunder’s league team took out the Team of the Year accolade after winning the club’s first WAFL premiership, while Cooper Geddes who claimed the Junior Sports Person of the Year award.

Other award winners include;