Queensland Country Health Fund are the official health insurance partner of Suzy Batkovic, Townsville Fire basketball captain and centre.

Fire up with Suzy

We sat down with Suzy to find out a little bit more about her and how she likes to ‘Stay Healthy. Be Confident.’

Suzy Batkovic

Where’s your happy place?

Mission Beach – it's such a beautiful place. I’ve snuck up there a few times lately and I always come back to Townsville feeling better.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

My Mum taught me that I could do - or be anything I wanted - as long as I worked hard and believed in myself.

Last album that you listened to?

Adele – 25

What’s the best restaurant you’ve ever eaten at?

Hurricane's - Bondi Beach

Do you have a secret talent?

The ability of making myself laugh... a lot.

Do you have a signature dish that you cook for family and friends?

Roast Beef.

What’s your favourite way to use your Extra Cover and why?

Physio and massage. It’s an essential part of injury prevention and great recovery.

What’s the best part about being a Member of Queensland Country Health Fund?

I believe QCHF are the best insurer because of their variety of extras, value for money, great customer service and they are always extremely helpful.

If you had friends or family visiting your home town of Newcastle, New South Wales, what would you do or where would you take them?

I would take them to Merewether Beach. Newcastle has awesome beaches and good cafes and restaurants.

Who inspires you and why?

My Mum, Marica, is an inspiration on all fronts of life. She's the most amazing person and mother; I am very lucky.

What do you do on a daily basis to help you ‘Stay Healthy. Be Confident.’?

I try to look after my mind, body and soul. I believe that's a big key to being healthy and confident.
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Suzy's biography

Batkovic burst onto the scene as part of the Lauren Jackson and Penny Taylor team that claimed the 1999 WNBL Championship with the AIS. This led to the Newcastle-native becoming a staple in the Jayco Australian Opals squad, helping the team win bronze at the 2002 FIBA World Championships.

Catching the attention of many international suitors, Batkovic was selected by the Seattle Storm in the 2003 WNBA Draft. The 192cm centre spent the next seven seasons abroad, winning the 2004 Euroleague title with French team Valencienne along with stints in the WNBA, Spain, Russia and Italy.

During this time Batkovic was ever present in the Opals squad, twice winning the Maher Medal for International Player of the Year (2001 and 2008) and helping the team claim the silver medal at the 2004 Athens and 2008 Beijing Games.

Returning to the WNBL, it was for the Adelaide Lightning where Batkovic was at her best, winning back-to-back WNBL Most Valuable Player awards – sandwiched between a third Olympic medal at the 2012 London Olympic Games.

After a successful two seasons in Adelaide, Batkovic made the move to the Townsville Fire for the 2013/14 WNBL season, producing another outstanding season, earning a third consecutive WNBL All-Star Five selection.

Batkovic's veteran experience and leadership helped the Opals secure a place in the 2016 Summer Olympic Games after defeating New Zealand in the 2015 FIBA Oceania Championship. She was the Championship top scorer, averaging 15.5 points, while also averaging six rebounds.