I remember the first time I heard of Amy's existence. I was at Middelton, at the family holiday home when my mother told me I had a new cousin whose name was Amy Elizabeth. Immediately I thought "They have named her after me", which, I suppose was a typical response from a 9 year old who happened to be named Elizabeth.... She was the cutest, chubbiest blond haired baby who won over everybody, including me who just loved babies at the age I was. One of my vividest memories of her as a child was the fact that she would eat nothing but vegemite sandwiches, even at christmas, and I can remember Pop complaining bitterly about her lack of palate.... but she stubbornly refused to eat anything else. Being a person with a similar palate I quietly cheered her, admiring that spirit, which obviously is the reason she was so successful in her chosen sports. To the world she was a famous sportsperson who achieved so much, but to myself she was just Amy, a lovely sweet girl who was able to connect with her family no matter where she was or whatever she was doing.

Another special moment i would like to share with everyone is a very special and proud moment I had with my own daughter Caitlyn who is 10 years old. In March she competed at the Queensland State Titles for athletics in the Under 10 1100m walk. She completed the race in 9th position with a time of 7min10 sec which was well over a minute off her best time. So what, you may say, but during the race she was wearing a headband that once belonged to Amy, and she has not come anywhere near that time again this year, even in 2 carnivals. I like to believe that Amy was watching over her, giving her that little bit extra to achieve such an amazing time.

Special love and kisses to Denis, Mary and Georgie xxxxxx

Amy was a great person to hang out with, both on and off the bike.  I have many fond memories of long rides I did with her during our off season.  Time would slip by as we discussed one topic after another and she always had a knack of turning a situation into something really funny.  Often we could hardly pedal as we laughed so hard about funny things we’d both experienced overseas. 

Amy was a very positive person and could always look at things objectively.  I recall a ride we did just as she was deciding to transfer from track to road.  She was so excited about this new challenge and was telling me about her plans to qualify for the time trial at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games.

I have many memories of Amy looking so stylish off the bike.  I remember always thinking how fashionable she looked and admired the way she carried herself with such pose and self confidence.  I have really mixed feelings of joy and sadness thinking of you Amy.  You were a wonderful person to walk this world and are truly missed.

Helen
xxxxx

Five years has gone by and the peloton is a little lonelier without you but the memory of your smile and your friendship continues to ride beside all Australian cyclists.  

Amy - I hope you're still riding in fair weather and calm winds - with the occasional detour for gelato of course.