Create an experience with Tessa Wallace

Representing Australian Swimming at the Olympics, 3 Commonwealth Games, and World Championships, Tessa Wallace has been a figure of inspiration to not only young swimmers but to those struggling through Lyme Disease. She was diagnosed personally with the chronic illness several years ago, but despite this has performed tremendously; all whilst overcoming seemingly impossible adversities. 

In 2010, at only 17, Tessa won a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games in the 200 metres breaststroke, months after a knee surgery.  In 2011 she contracted Ross River Virus and saw her health decline; however, she was determined to qualify for the London 2012 Olympics. 

With constant fatigue, muscle aches and lack of ability to train, she somehow fought her way through a miracle race to win the 200 metres breaststroke to qualify for the Olympic Team, achieving her lifelong dream. It wasn't until after competing at the games she returned and was later diagnosed with Chronic Lyme Disease.

In the lead up to the 2016 Olympic selections Tessa’s symptoms flared – the aches, pain and fatigue made preparations difficult - and she narrowingly missed a Rio selection. Tessa saw this as a blessing in disguise to devote time to putting her health back on track and focus towards successful qualifying for her 3rd Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast in 2018. She has recently completed a Bachelor of Communications majoring in PR and Journalism. 

"I was brought up at the Caloundra Aquatic Lifestyle Centre as my parents own and run the complex. They also own the coast's most popular swim school, John Wallace Swim School, which is where I begun my swimming career. I absolutely love inspiring and engaging with kids and providing insight into overcoming life's greatest adversities to achieve your ultimate goal."