From the tiny Queensland settlement of Pilton, south of Toowoomba, Nicole Vernon grew up on a cattle farm in what she describes as “the middle of nowhere.” When she was 14, to pass time she tried out for the Darling Downs Athletics Club and quickly learnt not only did she have talent in field events, but she was developing a passion for it.

Pursued by Michael Thomson, Athletics Australia’s Global Games preparation program coordinator, Nicole was put in touch with coach Panais Negropontis. With Panais’ guidance, over the past two years she has improved her shot put personal best by well in excess of a metre.

With London 2012 drawing closer, Nicole has continued to build momentum and won silver in discus at the 2011 National Championships. She also placed a credible fifth in shot put at the 2011 IPC World Championships. She is confident she can register a new competition personal best in London and throw over ten metres in shot put.

Nicole loves the travel opportunities sport has given her, and cites travelling to Prague for the 2009 Global Games and travelling to different parts of Australia for national competitions among the highlights of her career. While she loves travelling, the proud Queenslander’s favourite holiday destination is popular coastal destination Airlie Beach.

Having competed alongside 2009 world discus champion Dani Samuels at countless events, Nicole has the perfect role model. Naturally, she also looks up to Beijing 2008 Olympic shot putter Justin Anlezark, who Nicole nominates as her favourite sports star.

Outside of training, Nicole has recently finished high school and is looking at a career in sport and fitness. She also harbours a love for music and can play the guitar, piano and flute. A country girl at heart, Nicole enjoys working on her family farm.