Chelsea, a supported employee at Multicap’s Monte Lupo Cafe, recently competed in the 2025 Great Barrier Reef Masters Games in Cairns, returning home with an impressive haul of eight medals. 

The trip was Chelsea’s first-ever visit to Cairns, and she made it count by competing in eight swimming events over the course of the weekend and placed in every single one.  

Her final medal tally included six golds, one silver, and one bronze medal and she couldn’t have been happier. 

“I was really proud of myself,” Chelsea said, glowing with pride. “But my times weren’t as good as I hoped being 28 seconds over my personal best.” 

Despite not hitting her target times, Chelsea’s results are nothing short of outstanding. Her success in the pool is the result of years of training, consistency and a deep passion for swimming.  

She currently trains three times a week with her swim team and is no stranger to early mornings. 

“I get up at 5am to go to the pool,” she said. “I really love training, especially with my team.” 

Chelsea juggles her athletic training with her job at Monte Lupo Café, where she’s a valued member of the team.  

Whether she’s preparing food in the kitchen or providing customer service at the counter, Chelsea is always ready to give her best.  

“The weekend was so tiring, I slept on the plane ride home, but it was worth it,” she said. 

One of her favourite memories from the Games wasn’t just the competition, it was the camaraderie.  

“The disco was so much fun! We danced and celebrated. It was great to see lots of the other swimmers.” 

When it comes to swimming, Chelsea knows what she likes and what she doesn’t. “My favourite stroke is backstroke,” she said. “My least favourite is breaststroke, but I still swim in every race I can.” 

Chelsea competes in the multiclass category for swimmers with disability, representing her division with confidence and pride, having a lot of fun along the way. 

Her success in Cairns is just the beginning. Chelsea and her mum are now busy planning her next big challenge, the 2025 Australian Masters Games in Canberra.