Diving

Inducted in 2021

Valerie Beddoe AM is an iconic figure in Australian diving, with a career spanning over four decades as an athlete, coach, and administrator. As a diver, she represented Australia at two Olympic Games (1980 and 1984), becoming the first Australian to make finals in both platform and springboard events. Beddoe’s international success includes a gold medal at the 1979 World Diving Cup, Australia’s first international diving medal since 1924, and multiple Commonwealth Games medals, including gold in 1982.

Nationally, Beddoe dominated the sport, winning 14 National Open Women’s Championships and over 20 Junior titles. She pioneered high-difficulty dives, becoming the first Australian female to perform a 3.5 somersaults in pike position. After retiring as an athlete, Beddoe transitioned into coaching, leading Australian teams at World Championships and Commonwealth Games. She also served in various administrative roles, including as Diving Australia’s National High Performance Manager and National Technical Director.

Beddoe’s contributions to diving and sports administration have been widely recognized. She was awarded the Australia Sports Medal in 2000 and appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2001. Beddoe is a Life Member of both Diving Australia and Diving South Australia, cementing her legacy as one of the most influential figures in Australian diving history