Lisa Curry: ‘Why I really went on I’m A Celeb...’

Lisa Curry

THE SWIMMING CHAMPION’S FIANCE SPILLS THE BEANS ON HER REAL MOTIVATION

She has clashed with some contestants, become a mother figure to others and been pushed to her limits both mentally and physically. But no matter how tough it gets on I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, Lisa Curry won’t let anything get her down. With a special reason for signing up to the reality show, Lisa is determined to face every challenge thrown at her with the same vigour that saw her win gold medals for Australia. Raising money and awareness for her chosen charity – Aussie Helpers, which supports farmers in need – the swimming star was touched by the heartbreaking struggles happening throughout the country. ‘Lisa experienced this first-hand being on a road trip for two years in the

outback, rural and regional areas of Australia,’ explains her fiance Mark Tabone.

‘She spoke at length to many of these farmers about what they were going through.’

After hearing about the charity dedicating itself to staying in touch with hundreds of farming families to ensure their wellbeing and survival, Lisa knew she needed to be a part of it.

‘It lifts their spirits with donations and luxuries they can’t afford,’ Mark says.

‘After Lisa heard from some farmers that they were selling milk for less than it cost to make, she was shocked.’

As one of Australia’s most recognisable athletes – having won 15 gold, seven silver and eight bronze international swimming medals – Lisa hopes her profile will help highlight the great work the charity does.

Back at home on the Sunshine Coast, Mark is proud of Lisa’s dedication and says despite the gruelling conditions, she probably wants to be pushed even harder!

‘She thrives on the unknown, challenge and adventure,’ he smiles. ‘She is tough, she can handle it, and I think if anything, she’s disappointed that she hasn’t been involved in more tucker trials.’

But while Lisa is enjoying her new TV role and time in the jungle, Mark says there are still things she is missing.

‘She will be missing cooking her own meals, her second pillow and a proper bed,’ he says. ‘And me, her kids and friends, of course.’

And while many celebrities enter the jungle with fears of spiders, heights or eating all sorts of revolting foods, Mark reveals Lisa didn’t have any concerns about living in the wild.

‘Her only worry was us being apart for so long,’ he explains. ‘Everything else was just exciting.’

Even though Mark is missing Lisa, he knows she’s thinking about him because of a secret code they set up before she jetted out.

‘My life is not the same without her, I really miss her,’ he says. ‘But I’ve got a couple of cryptic messages with her playing with her necklace and her ring.’

‘She thrives on the unknown, challenge and adventure. She is tough, she can handle it’