Melissa-Anne Tanner was glued to the television during the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, it was then she got a glimpse of Para-archery.

The world champion canoeist immediately wanted to give it a go.

After 18 months Melissa-Anne was rated number one in Australia and was selected in the Archery Australia Para team for World titles in July 2023.

Born in Singapore, Melissa-Anne joined the Australian Airforce at 18-years-old, but a broken ankle in 2008 changed her life.

After unexpected complications the lower part of her right leg was amputated in 2011. Then, in 2021 her left leg was amputated because of a syndrome called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

Melissa took up para-canoeing as a way to focus and in 2014, representing Australia in the RIO24 World Va’a Sprint Championships, she won 6 gold medals.  Melissa was then selected in the Australian Canoe/Kayak Paralympic team in 2015, however due to a …

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Date of birth
14 August 1973
Sport
Para-archery
Impairment
Physical Impairment
How acquired
A broken ankle in 2008, led to unexpected complications
Residence
Southport, QLD
Occupation
University student and athlete
Started competing
2022
First competed for Australia
2014
Greatest sporting moments

Olympic medallist Clint Robinson becoming her personal coach in canoe.

Favourite quote
Anything is possible.

Disciplines

  • Sport: Para-archery Classification: Open Standing

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