Australia’s first publicly gay bobsled player has passed on. The shocking news is a huge blow to the LGBTIAQ+ community in Australia and sports at large. Simon Dunn was only 35 at the time of his sudden death, and we will discuss every detail surrounding his passing in this read.
Keep reading for the details.
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Finding A Body
At about 10am on Saturday, January 21, 2023, locals alerted the police after finding the body of a man inside Crown Street, Surry Hills.
Confirming His Death
Australian police and his agent from Ruby Rose Management confirmed the news of his death to the public.
Discovering Bobsledding
The 35-year-old fell in love with bobsledding on a work trip to Canada and later represented Australia in the North American Cup.
He also joined the Convicts, Australia’s first gay rugby team that plays in the Sydney Suburban Rugby Union championship, and the Kings Cross Steelers in London.
Bobsled Comeback
In 2021, the athlete announced he was returning to bobsled with a dream of participating in the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.
An Injury Stopped The Mission
Unfortunately, the star suffered a bicep injury during training which cut his journey short as he had to fly down to Australia for treatment, forcing him into early retirement.
Getting His Accolades
Dunn was also nominated for the Australian LGBTI Awards Sports Personality of the Year in 2018 and 2019. He was also popular in his community for his community efforts especially on LGBTIAQ+ advocacy and works in the arts.
Fighting For The LGBTQ+ Community
Dunn used his voice to address former Wallaby Israel Folau’s comment that all gay people were going to hell while encouraging an end to homophobia in Rugby.
PDA With Partner
The professional sportsman also broke the internet when he attracted the media for kissing his ex after the Sydney Convicts had won their grand final game.
He defended his actions in a statement and told the public it was shared to “celebrate” his win.
Parting Ways With Partner
In November 22, the late Dunn announced that he and his partner of five years had split up. The breakup was mutual “after a rough year of personal loss.”
Social Media Activities Before His Death
The 35-year-old, last active on social media on Thursday, posted a pic and captioned it, “I think it’s time for another photoshoot?”. He also dropped photos of him spending Christmas in the sun on the beach.
Pride Cruise 2022
Dunn shared pictures of him traveling on the Pride Cruise from Melbourne in December 2022.
A Fresh Start
On January 1, Dunn posted a picture with the Sydney Harbor Bridge firework in the background with the caption.
“Oh hey 2023. Leaving a roller coaster of a 2022 in the past…”.
Giving Back To His Community
The late star was passionate about giving back to his community and volunteering. He gave his time and energy to multiple charities. According to statements from the Ruby Rose Management Agency, his favorite charities included Bobby Goldsmith Foundation, Give Out Day and Pride in Sport.
Tributes For Dunn
Tributes are pouring in droves from fans across the world for the LGBTIAQ+ ambassador.
Dj and drag performer Kitty Glitter dropped an emotional tribute.
