The tragic death of 35-year-old former bobsledder and rugby player Simon Dunn has shocked Australia’s sporting and arts communities. Dunn’s body was found in his Sydney apartment on Saturday morning, according to NSW police. The circumstances were not considered suspicious.
Ruby Rose Management, who works for Dunn, confirmed the devastating news. A police spokesman said: “At approximately 10am on Saturday 21 January 2023, police were called to a unit in Crown Street, Surry Hills after reports of a man’s body being found inside.”
“The body is probably that of the 35-year-old resident. Surry Hills Police Area Command officers have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, which is not being treated as suspicious.”
Dunn became the first openly gay person to compete in bobsleigh for their country. After retiring from the sport in 2016, he took up rugby and often played for the all-gay Sydney Convicts.
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Dunn returned to bobsledding in 2021 to try and compete in the 2022 Winter Olympics. However, his dream was crushed when he tore his biceps.
In 2018 and 2019, Dunn was one of the finalists for the Australian LGBTI Awards Sports Personality of the Year award. “For me, my passion will always be working for my community and advocacy groups, plus exploring other ways I can contribute,” he previously said.
Simon Dunn’s death has sparked a flood of tributes
DJ and drag performer Kitty Glitter wrote on Facebook, “Just can’t believe it,” as Dunn’s first tribute. Kitty said she “knew him as a young, cute teenager and watched him blossom into the beautiful man and talented, outstanding athlete.” I am in shock and heartbroken… We all loved [him] treasure.”‘
Simon Dunn cause of death
“Our community has lost one of the most genuine, kind-hearted sweethearts the world has ever been blessed with. My heart goes out to all of Simon’s family and friends. His loving energy and spirit will always live on through us.”
Ruby Rose Management said: “Simon was passionate about giving back to the community and volunteering. He gave his time and used his profile to help several charities. Like all great ambassadors, he had his favorites, including the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation, Give Out Day and Pride in Sport.”
“Simon has never said ‘NO’ to donating his time to organizations looking to increase their diversity and inclusion footprint, from Woolworths to Lion, to help all of them better understand their LGBTQIA+ employees and customers. “
“Simon represented all of us, he always said, ‘I’m not the spokesperson, I’m just a gay white man telling you about my experiences and the experiences of those I listened and learned with’. Sharing these stories gives us all an appreciation for what has led us to where we are today.”
The death of former rugby player and bobsledder Simon Dunn has shocked Australia’s sporting and artistic communities. Dunn’s flat in Sydney, Australia, was searched Saturday morning and his death was discovered there.
Dunn made history by becoming the first gay bobsledder to fight for their country… Feel free to leave your condolences for the passing of Simon Dunn in the section below.
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