Wollongong Honours Olympian: Promenade Named After Emma McKeon

Today, on a picture-perfect day at North Wollongong Beach, Australian swimmer Emma McKeon officially opened the promenade in front of the North Wollongong Surf Club.

Wrapping up the official proceedings, Emma and Wollongong Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM, revealed the plaque that carries her name.

The Emma McKeon AM Promenade recognises Emma, who holds more gold medals than any Australian athlete and is currently Young Australian of the Year.

The decision to name the promenade after Emma came from the local community after her success at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

Thank you to all those who made a submission and were part of the process to recognise Emma’s achievements.

Emma said that Wollongong held a special place in her heart, and she was very grateful to the ongoing and passionate support she received from her hometown.

“I feel so very lucky to have grown up in Wollongong and been part of a community that is so supportive,’’ she said.

“It seems quite surreal to think that this beautiful promenade will carry my name and I just hope that it inspires others to follow their dreams. If I think back to that little girl who used to come to this beach with my family as a kid, she never would have dreamt of this happening.

“Thank you to all those who have supported me over the years – there is something really special about knowing your hometown has your back.’’