Jan Thornett (nee Andrew)

Swimming

Jan Andrew (nee Thornett) learnt to swim at Northbridge Baths at the age of 6. 

Before Jan was even 10 years of age, she had won her first State title at North Sydney Pool.

She trained under Frank Guthrie at Canterbury Pool and in 1960 was selected as part of the swimming team to compete in the Rome Olympic Games.

With teammates Marilyn Wilson, Rosemary Lassig and Dawn Fraser, Jan won a silver medal in the 4x100 metre medley relay. Jan also won a bronze medal in the 100 metre butterfly event.

In 1961, Jan broke the world record in the 100 metres butterfly at the Japan/Australia meet.

Jan was also the Australian Open Swimming Champion in the 100 metre butterfly in 1959 and 1961 and in the 200 metre butterfly in 1960 and 1961.

Her daughter, Joanne Wheatley, went on to represent Australia in Handball.