Olympic Medallist Thrives in 3R’s Program

The City of Burnside is proud to be home to many remarkable individuals, including Norma Thrower of Glenside, a former Olympic 80-metre hurdler who now participates in the city’s 3R’s program.

Representing Australia at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, Norma earned a bronze medal in the 80-metre hurdles, finishing behind fellow Australian Shirley Strickland. However, it was her gold medal win at the 1958 Commonwealth Games in Cardiff that Norma cites as the pinnacle of her athletic career.

‘Winning the Commonwealth Games in Wales, that was my career highlight. In Rome, I was in the team, but I bombed out in the semi-final,’ Norma said with a laugh.

Inducted into the South Australian Sports Hall of Fame in 2023, Norma was honoured as one of the state’s premier athletes. Beyond her Olympic achievements, she has excelled in golf and tennis and was formerly the captain of the South Australian A-grade women’s basketball team.

Norma’s family has always been at the core of her journey. Married at 20, she has two children and four grandchildren. Her father, Arnold Austin, was a pivotal figure in her career as her lifelong athletics coach.

Norma has been a member of the City of Burnside’s 3R’s program – Respite, Recreation, and Revitalisation – since the start of this year. Encouraged by her daughter, she now attends weekly sessions at the Civic Centre.

‘A group of us come every Wednesday; we’re all over 80. I enjoy coming in, I always have a ball,’ she said.

The 3R’s program offers a variety of activities designed to keep participants engaged and uplifted, while also providing essential social support. ‘We have musicians come in, and we have a dance. It really boosts your mood. Other days, we’ve had an exercise instructor visit and art workshops,’ Norma said.

The program aims to foster a sense of community and wellbeing among senior residents, offering opportunities for social engagement. Norma’s experiences reflect the program’s impact.

‘After a few years, the girls start to rely on each other and lean on each other to talk. It’s a supportive environment.’

The 3R’s program is designed for individuals over the age of 65 who are socially isolated and want to connect with the community. Funded by the Federal Government through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), the program is accessed via a My Aged Care referral. Groups meet weekly from 10 am – 2 pm, with coffee and lunch provided, and offer a variety of activities including exercise, art, music, puzzles, and entertainment, all with the goal of getting people out of the house and enjoying themselves.

If you or a family member would like to join the 3R’s program, contact Council’s Home Support Program on 8366 4193.

Norma Thrower