Penrith Council has awarded Jessica Fox OAM the Key to the City, following her stunning successes over many years.
Jessica’s achievements, and the accomplishments of the City’s Olympians and Paralympians, were recognised at a civic ceremony on Tuesday, 10 December.
Penrith Mayor, Cr Todd Carney, said the City honoured Jessica for her outstanding sporting achievements, her contributions as an ambassador for Penrith, and as an advocate for all athletes in sport.
“The Key to the City is the highest honour awarded to individuals or organisations in our City. It’s only awarded in exceptional circumstances, to acknowledge an outstanding achievement and contribution,” Cr Carney said.
“Jess is the most successful individual medallist in Australian Olympic history. She is the world’s most successful paddler and renowned as the greatest individual paddler of all time.
“On and off the water – Jess demonstrates the best values of Penrith – positive and adventurous, while remaining grounded and proud of her roots.
“We commemorate her outstanding achievements and contributions to a sport and community, that admires her.”
The civic ceremony also honoured 17 inspirational athletes who are connected to Penrith – either through birth, residency, school, training base or club.
The athletes were:
• Olympia Aldersey – Rowing
• Tim Anderson – Canoe Slalom
• Tristan Carter – Canoe Slalom
• Jessica Fox OAM – Canoe Slalom
• Noemie Fox – Canoe Slalom
• Josh Green – Basketball
• Sarah Hawe – Rowing
• Erik Horrie OAM – Para-Rowing
• Ella Jones – Para-Swimming
• Paige Leonhardt – Para-Swimming
• Annabelle McIntyre OAM – Rowing
• Jonathon Milne – Para-Archery
• Amanda Reid – Para-Cycling
• Lucy Stephan OAM – Rowing
• James Turner OAM – Para-Athletics
• Katrina Werry – Rowing
• Melissa Wu – Diving
“To all our athletes – you have been outstanding ambassadors for our City and your sports,” Cr Carney said.
“You have inspired a new league of future champions and encouraged others to get active and reach for their dreams. And you have all instilled immense pride in the people of Penrith and Western Sydney.”
