Kate Colahan’s legacy has today been honoured officially with the 2026 Peter Norman Humanitarian Award, acknowledged posthumously for her work in changing lives through athletics in Queensland’s rural communities.
Affectionately known as Coach Kate, those who crossed paths with Kate Colahan all begin with a recollection of her infectious energy and contagious passion.
Those traits were channelled into a life devoted to athletics through roles including Head Coach of Outback Athletics from 2015-2025, making her a worthy recipient of the Peter Norman Humanitarian Award fittingly announced today on October 9 – Peter Norman Day.
Nominated by Donna McLellan, Colahan is celebrated as a pioneer in creating fun, accessible and community-driven athletics experiences, as well as helping to establish the Normanton and Surrounds Athletics Club – the most remote club in Australia.
“In her own Kate way, she was able to motivate athletes, whether they came from the big smoke in Brisbane, Townsville, or as remote as Normanton. It just came naturally to her – like breathing,” McLellan said.
Colahan is remembered for more unofficial roles, too:
“Her hugs! Her hugs were like a warm blanket being wrapped around you,” McLellan said.
Colahan’s husband, Mick Dickfos, was overcome with emotion upon hearing the news, sharing the pride with their two kids – Bella (daughter) and Darcy (son).
“Kate being bestowed with the honour of the 2026 Peter Norman Humanitarian award has all of us feeling very grateful for this recognition,” Dickfos said.
“Kate loved the world of athletics. This was evident every time she showed up to coach, lead and inspire all levels of athletes, but more importantly the next generation of coaches and little athletes.”
The Kate way included memorable coaching cues like the funky dance, stepping over the fat cow and the mad dash, as well as the famous Crazy Kate warm-up. These were just some examples of how Colahan could brighten even the dullest day.
Colahan kept teenagers engaged in the sport and used athletics as a vehicle to develop young people, motivating and empowering them to grow both on and off the track.
Colahan’s family have nominated the Sporting Wheelies Association as the recipient of the donation by Australian Athletics accompanying the Peter Norman Humanitarian Award.
The Peter Norman Humanitarian Award was inaugurated by Australian Athletics in 2018, inspired by Norman’s historic stand at the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games.
Norman wore the badge of the Olympic Project for Human Rights in solidarity with USA’s Tommie Smith and John Carlos, the award celebrates those who embody the courage and compassion that Norman is remembered for.
The award is given annually to a member of the Australian Athletics community who exemplifies his spirit through human rights, philanthropy or humanitarian causes today on Peter Norman Day.
Peter Norman Day was proclaimed by USA Track and Field on October 9, 2006 – the date of the Australian sprinter’s funeral.
By Australian Athletics with thanks to Dayne O’Hara
Posted 9/10/2026
