It’s always a big deal when a local gets the invitation to an event called the Oceania Challenge.
For prominent Moama bowler Olivia Cartwright, such a fate is now reality.
The 20-year-old has received a perhaps surprising call-up to wear the green and gold at continental titles in November, marking her first shot at international representation.
‘Surprising’ is not what local observers might suggest, however, with the prodigious talent already boasting club Champion of Champion awards under her impressive resume as well as regional titles.
The reason some eyebrows may be raised around the country is that Cartwright has achieved this feat without spending time in the traditional national pathways first, but that won’t matter when she dons Australian colours.
Cartwright’s more recent successes include a 2023 Australian Open title in the women’s fours, so this is no random selection.
The woman at the centre of it all might not have been expecting the call, though.
“I was completely lost for words … it took me by surprise, it was a casual day at work and then I got a life changing call,” she said.
“It still hasn’t sunk in yet, but I’m ecstatic and over the moon.
“It’s a childhood dream come true and I didn’t expect this to happen so quickly.
“I know I’ve been proud of my accomplishments over the past two years, but it’s just little Liv coming to light and realising hard work does pay off.”
Cartwright will soon join her compatriots, a five-woman squad featuring two metro Victorians, ahead of the five-day tournament in New Zealand, beginning on November 20.
Australian head coach Gary Willis is proud to welcome her into the fold.
“Olivia’s development throughout this tournament will be exponential and we look forward to seeing her in action for Australia,” Willis said.
“It also goes to show that our national selectors are always watching and looking to reward good people for their hard work with an eye on the future, our ongoing success and succession plans always in play.
“We are thrilled that Olivia is available for the Oceania Challenge as her form over the last 12 months has been very good, and has not gone unnoticed by the national selection panel.”