Friday 8 March marks International Women’s Day, an opportunity to celebrate the incredible women diving in Australia, past and present. 

One of the women leading the way for diving in Australia is Diving Queensland Chief Executive Officer, Lisa Wright.

Following her successful international career as an athlete for Zimbabwe, Wright switched her attention to coaching where she turned her love for the sport into a successful career.

After a stint as Auckland Diving Head Coach and Manager, Wright commenced the next stage in her career in the official role as a judge. 

Wright has judged internationally at four World Championships, two Commonwealth Games and the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. 

“It is an amazing experience to be an international judge and have the opportunity to travel all over the world,” said Wright. 

“The role allows me to make fantastic friends and to have really enjoyable experiences, and I am privileged to judge the best of the best athletes on the world stage.”

Alongside her international judging, at the end of 2023 Wright took on a role with Diving Queensland as the Chief Executive Officer. 

“It has been very exciting to take on this new role, I have passion for diving and sport, I just want to make a difference really,” said Wright. 

Having held numerous positions within diving over several years, Wright has witnessed positive changes within the sport. 

“I think women now have a really strong position within sport, I think it used to be a lot more male focused in management roles which has been a positive shift.

“At Diving Queensland and Diving Australia it is really clear that women are supported in our roles and have flexibility for working mothers and also be afforded the opportunity to be career women.”

Diving Australia CEO Alex Newton said, ‘we are certainly seeing some shifts in diving and the opportunities for women.”

“ It is fabulous with all her skills and experiences that Lisa has taken on the CEO role in DQ, We are all really looking forward to working with her to grow and develop diving in Queensland.’

When Wright was asked what her best advice for women looking to be involved in sport, she shared, 

"I think the biggest thing is being bold and brave in whatever it is you want to achieve.”

“Be unashamedly and authentically yourself. And just like in diving, you feel the fear and you jump anyway!"