By Goya Dmytryshchak
Williamstown’s Helen Smith has been appointed a member of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday honours for her service to fencing as an Olympic athlete, coach, mentor and referee.
Ms Smith started fencing 48 years ago at age 14, competing at numerous world championships and in Olympic Games at Montreal, Moscow and Los Angeles.
She founded the Williamstown Fencing Club in 1976 and was Commonwealth champion in 1978.
The former Williamstown High School teacher said the popular appeal of fencing had grown because of shows such as
Game of Thrones and Star Wars. She said it appealed to her because it was physically, mentally and psychologically demanding.
“It’s like being in a real combat,” Ms Smith said.
“There are lots of tactics, a lot of strategy involved, and when you win a bout, or even if you just score hits against someone you know is a superior opponent, it’s very, very rewarding.
“Every time you step on the strip you have to dig deep because there’s no one else to fall back on; there’s no other team member there on the piece with you.
Ms Smith said she felt very honoured at the recognition. “I’ve almost got tears in my eyes. It’s a great honour; I suppose that’s what it’s meant to be. I guess it’s nice to think I might have done enough to deserve that.”
Ms Smith teared up as she acknowledged those who helped her along the way, including her friend, former Premier Joan Kirner.
“You don’t get to be recognised and achieve all the things I have without the support of the family, particularly, my husband, my kids, and all the other people in my world of sport and in the community.
“I had support from Joan Kirner over the years and it’s really sad to see her pass. She’s been an amazing woman; I think she’s touched so many people in so many ways and you always felt you had her support.
“She made you feel a bit special even though she’s met some of the most amazing people in the world, like Nelson Mandela and Hilary Clinton. I guess I feel that without the support of many people like Joan in my sporting career – my teachers and my coaches and my mentors – I wouldn’t have been able to do what I’ve done.”
Ms Smith has been president of the Commonwealth Fencing Federation and Oceania Fencing Confederation since 2002.
She was awarded the Maitre d’Armes (Master of Arms) by the Oceania Fencing Masters Academy in 1992 and was inducted into the International Fencing Hall of Fame in 2013.
