Tammy van Wisse

Corporate, Inspirational Speaker, Speaking Out

Marathon swimmer, Tammy van Wisse has swum one-and-a-half times around the planet, setting six world records – five of which are still current. She has swum the English Channel twice (the success rate is only seven percent), is the only person to have swum Bass Strait and spent three and a half months submerged in the mighty Murray River – to highlight the river’s environmental importance.

Armed with the same energy and dedication as she has put into her incredible swimming career, Tammy brings a truly unique and inspiring presentation that entertains as it informs, and inspires as it motivates.

Tammy’s never-give-up world champion stories are enlightening, entertaining and powerfully motivating. She shares her secrets and strategies of how to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles showing audiences that with a commitment to a goal, and a belief in oneself – anything is possible.

Topics:

• Goal setting
• Motivation & Inspiration
• Breaking down goals into chewable chunks
• Sport
• Overcoming Adversity
• The Power of Perseverance
• Environment
• Adapting to change
• The Power of the Mind – building our inner strength
• International Women’s Day
• World Environment Day

Where were you born?

I was born in Melbourne, Victoria.

What other jobs have you had?

I’ve been a swim coach and swim teacher.

What have been the highlights of your career?

Being the only person to have swum Bass Strait, and the fastest person to have swum the 2438km length of the Murray River.

What themes are recurring in your work?

Determination, discipline, goal setting, preparation, perseverance, team work & never giving up!

What are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about helping others achieve their best – particularly young people. I was overweight as a child and understand how difficult it is to stay motivated and stick to your goals. I’m also passionate about the environment. My marathon swims have turned me into a “human water quality tester” so I’ve literally been immersed in the issues. And finally I’m passionate about water safety – drowning is preventable and every child should learn how to swim.

Haven’t I seen you before?

Discovery Channel (worldwide) made a documentary featuring my Gippsland Lakes swim. I’ve also been on television (The Today Show,A Current Affair, Sunrise, The Footy Show and Today Tonight), and various print publications (including Herald Sun, The Age, New York Times, Woman’s Day & New Idea just to name a few).

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

I’ve swum over 65,000kms (that’s 1.5 times around the world) in my career and I have a day named after me in New Jersey, USA. Every July 21st, “Tammy van WIsse Day” is commemorated in recognition of the World record I set in 2006 from New York to New Jersey. Primary & secondary students are taught about my swim.