Helen Margaret Brownlee AM (born 18 May 1945) is an Australian executive with the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC). In 2013, she was the first woman to be elected as one of the vice presidents of the AOC executive board.
Brownlee’s life has always revolved around the sport of canoeing. She was born to father Os Brownlee, a founding member of Australian Canoeing, who played a pivotal role in shaping her competitive career. With his guidance and experience, Brownlee began her journey in canoeing at a young age. Initially, she trained in the K1 and K2 classes on the Parramatta River, but her true passion lied in canoe slalom.
Brownlee’s dedication and skill quickly made waves in the sport, and she achieved a remarkable feat by winning Australia’s first-ever international slalom medal. However, despite her accomplishments, Australian Canoeing primarily focused on sprint canoeing, preventing her from competing in the 1972 Summer Olympics. Nevertheless, Brownlee’s love for the sport continued undeterred.
Undeterred by the Olympic setback, Brownlee’s commitment to canoeing led her to serve as a judge at both the 1972 and 1988 Summer Olympic Games. She would go on to become a member of the competition jury at the 1992, 1996, and 2000 Olympic Games, displaying her expertise and knowledge of the sport at the highest level.
In 1976, Brownlee shattered another glass ceiling as she became the first woman elected to the International Canoe Federation (ICF) Slalom and Wildwater Committee. Her impressive achievements in the field eventually propelled her to the ICF Board of Management, where she continued to advocate for the sport she loved.
Recognizing her immense contributions and impact on canoeing, Brownlee was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 1985. This prestigious honor exemplified her dedication and service to the sport, solidifying her place in Australian sporting history.
Furthermore, Brownlee’s commitment to promoting fair play and sportsmanship extended beyond her own career. In 1992, she established the Pierre de Coubertin Awards, recognizing secondary school students who actively participated in sports and exhibited exceptional sportsmanship. This initiative highlighted her belief in the power of sports to shape character and foster positive values.
Brownlee’s enthusiasm and efforts to encourage female participation in Olympic canoeing did not go unnoticed. Her instrumental role in increasing the number of female slalom canoeists following the 2000 Summer Olympics earned her the 2002 Trophy for Oceania from the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This award acknowledged her tireless advocacy for gender equality and opportunities in sport.
Throughout her career, Brownlee dedicated herself to the growth and development of canoeing. From the 1972 Olympics, she served as an official or jury member for the sport, lending her expertise and knowledge to ensure fair and successful competitions. Her contributions were recognized in 2010 when she was inducted into the International Whitewater Hall of Fame, further cementing her status as a trailblazer in her field.
In 2013, Brownlee broke new ground yet again, becoming the first woman to be elected as one of the vice presidents of the AOC executive board. Her election marked a significant milestone for gender equality within the Australian Olympic Committee and demonstrated her extensive experience and leadership abilities.
In recognition of her invaluable contributions to the Olympic movement and her advocacy for greater participation in sport, Brownlee was awarded the Olympic Order in 2015. This prestigious honor celebrated her enduring commitment and impact on the Olympic Games.
Brownlee’s remarkable achievements and legacy were honored once more in 2018 when she was made a Member of the Order of Australia. This prestigious award acknowledged her significant service to sports administration, her advocacy for women’s participation in sport, and her unwavering dedication to the Olympic movement.
Helen Brownlee’s contributions to canoeing and sports administration have been unparalleled. Her trailblazing achievements, commitment to fair play, and dedication to gender equality have left an indelible mark on her sport and the wider Olympic movement. Her passion and leadership continue to inspire future generations of athletes and administrators alike.
Awards:
– Medal of the Order of Australia (1985)
– Australian Sports Medal (2000)
– Olympic Order (2015)
– Inducted into Sport Australia Hall of Fame (2015)
– Member of the Order of Australia (2018)