Sixteen years after a life-changing accident left her a quadriplegic, Rhiannon Tracey continues to defy expectations, inspiring thousands through her advocacy, entrepreneurship and unshakable optimism.
The Melbourne-based motivational speaker, model and wellness advocate is the founder of The Next Step Program Spinal Injury Recovery and Wellness Centre, a not-for-profit facility operating out of Epping and launched in 2012.
Tracey started the recovery centre to fill a gap in intensive neurological rehabilitation, which recently expanded to include an inclusive, independent gym and partnered with Griffith University to bring stem cell clinical trials to Victoria – a development Tracey describes as “potentially life-changing” for people living with spinal injuries.
“I wasn’t ready to take no for an answer,” she said. “I wanted to have a happy and fulfilling life — and to show others what’s possible.”
Tracey also made history as the first female wheelchair user to walk the runway at Melbourne’s Fashion Week, explaining visibility and inclusion remain central to her mission.
“It’s about creating that doorway of opportunity for others,” she said.
This month, Tracey will take the stage as official ambassador for the Melbourne Disability Expo, held on Friday 21 and Saturday 22 December at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
“The expo is more than just a showcase – it’s a space for real conversations about respect, self-advocacy and the kind of care our community deserves,” she said.
For Tracey, her message is simple yet powerful.
“Never give up — you can give up, or you can give it all you’ve got.”
