It’s been a wild ride for Ellie Cole. As a recipient of the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) and holder of 17 Paralympic medals, Cole became Australia’s most decorated female Paralympian in 2021. In January 2024 she was also awarded an AM for her “significant service to sport as an advocate for diversity and inclusion.”
At just three years old, Cole faced a life-altering challenge when her right leg was amputated due to a life-threatening sarcoma. Despite this, Cole didn’t let adversity define her. Instead, she displayed remarkable resilience and determination. After a year of unsuccessful chemotherapy, her parents made the difficult decision to amputate her leg. Just eight weeks later, Ellie began swimming as part of her rehabilitation—a journey that led to an extraordinary career in the pool.
In 2022, Ellie announced her retirement from competitive swimming, concluding a remarkable career that spanned four Paralympic Games, four World Championships and three Commonwealth Games. She retired a superstar of Australian swimming.
Cole is now a Toyota Australia ambassador and brought her expertise and passion to the Channel Nine Paralympic commentary team for the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games. She is also regular host on Nine’s Wide World of Sports program. We were able to steal Ellie away for a quick chat before the Paralympics to discuss what she would pick for her Dream Garage.
Daily driver: Toyota Prado
Not surprisingly as a Toyota ambassador, Cole spends most days behind the wheel of a very practical choice from the brand’s range.
“I currently drive a Toyota Prado,” she said. “It’s so perfect for my lifestyle – we are a family of three with two dogs. Its perfect for both off-road as well as our regular drives to Melbourne.”
Something Special: Prince Skyline GTB
Don’t call it a Nissan. The Prince Skyline is the ancestor to the modern day Nissan Skyline, and Cole’s family has a long history with the car. A rare and special car, it would no doubt make a great collection to her Dream Garage – if she can find one for sale in Australia.
“When I was a little girl, my dad restored my grandfather’s 1965 Prince Skyline GTB,” she explained. “I remember the hours that he spent in our garage to get it back on the road again. There aren’t too many in Australia left, but over the years we have found some Prince Skyline enthusiasts that are still family friends to this day!”
Track Toy: Toyota GR Supra
While she’s be fast in the pool her whole life, Cole recently discovered the thrill of going quickly on the racetrack. That was in Toyota’s Supra sports coupe and it clearly left an impression.
“I recently took a Toyota Supra onto a track and had the greatest time. I’d give anything to replicate that feeling again!”
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