Earlier this month, the Scone resident recreated the experience at the 22nd Deaflympics in Sofia, Bulgaria, with a personal best and another victory.

“It’s given me more ammunition to continue and hopefully crack the 50 [metres],” she said.

“It was an awesome experience and good to bring a gold medal home.”

Like all other competitors at Deaflympics, Miss Mills is deaf; however, she not only competes alongside the hearing impaired, she also performs well in open competition.

Grandfather and coach George McCready said training required a lot of dedication.

“Fitness is important, the technical aspect of throwing is the critical thing and takes quite a while to master,” he told Hunter Valley News.

“Particularly in the past 18 months it’s been mainly intensive training, an average of six days a week.

“You’ve got to go for it and dedicate yourself; if you don’t put time into it, you don’t get the results.”

A lot of effort is required to conquer an international title, but Miss Mills said all the hard work was worth it.

“New people, new friendships, new experiences, new places, and the satisfaction of beating you personal best is great,” she said.

“And people support you along the journey.”

The sporting life may deliver some proud and glorious moments, but low points also tend to be part of the package.

“It’s hard, lonely work in athletics because you aren’t in a team,” Mr McCready said.

‘It’s a bit isolated,” agreed his grand-daughter, “but it makes it worthwhile when you get into the atmosphere at Deaflympics.”

Mr McCready is very proud of his granddaughter’s commitment and achievements.

“She stuck with it all, although at times she’s doubted herself, she persisted and then decided she wanted to keep going,” he said.

Miss Mills is very grateful for all the support she has received from her parents and grandparents.

The 26-year-old hopes her achievements inspire people to run after their aspirations, despite any obstacles that may stand in their way.

“[I want to] encourage young people to reach for their dreams,” she said.