Fanny Durack was an Australian swimmer and trailblazer in women's sports. She made history at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics by becoming the first Australian woman to win a gold medal in swimming, competing in the 100-meter freestyle. Durack's achievements not only showcased her athletic prowess but also marked a significant milestone for women in sports, challenging societal norms of the time. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of female athletes.

Since her death in 1956 Fanny Durack’s final resting place has been Waverley Cemetery, fittingly overlooking the ocean. Her grave had been unmarked, overgrown and seemingly forgotten until Waverley Council set up a fund to buy a plaque to mark her grave and honour her contribution to Australian swimming. As well as money donated by Waverley Council, funds were received from the NSW state government, local swimming and surf life saving clubs, Fanny’s American niece and a former swimming pupil of Fanny’s.

$3000 was raised and in 1990 her grave was restored and a new onyx headstone put in place. It reads:  

'In memory of Sarah “Fanny” Durack (Mrs. Bernard Gately) died 20 March, 1956, aged 66. First woman swimmer to win an Olympic gold medal, Stockholm, 1912. Held every world freestyle record from 100 yards to one mile.’  

Fanny’s brother Frank is also buried in the same grave.