Trailblazing gay rugby player and bobsledder Simon Dunn dies, aged 35
Simon Dunn has tragically passed away. The Australian rugby player and former bobsledder was found dead in Surry Hills, Sydney, on 21 January.
He was 35-years-old. A police spokesperson said in a statement: “The body is believed to be that of the 35-year-old occupant.
Officers from Surry Hills Police Area Command have commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding his death, which is not being treated as suspicious.” Simon’s agent, Ruby Rose Management, said he was “loved by family and friends, adored by fans, media and social platforms all over the globe,” and that he’s left an “amazing” legacy. “Simon was passionate about giving back to the community and volunteering,” they continued. “Simon never said ‘NO’ to donating his time to any organisation who wanted to grow Diversity and Inclusion footprint from Woolworths to Lion – helping them all to better understand their LGBTQIA+ employees and customers. “Simon represented us all, he always said ‘I am not the spokesman, I am just a gay white male telling you about my experiences, and experiences from those with whom I listened and learnt.
The sharing of these stories gives us all an appreciation of what has lead us to where we are today’.” Ruby Rose Management ended their statement: “Simon will be missed, not just for his sportsmanship, not just for his valued views on our community and sport but mostly for being who he was a genuine all-round nice guy, who had time for everyone. “He had a story for us all, but mostly he wanted to know your story, and who you are, and how can he help share what you mean to life.” Simon made history in 2014 when he became the first openly gay man to join a national bobsleigh team in any country.
