Fitz-Gerald spent three hectic days in the Wimmera coaching over the weekend, before addressing the region's aspiring sports stars at the Wimmera Sports Star of the Year awards on Monday night.

She told the 160-strong crowd at Horsham Sports and Community Club of the importance of honouring regional sports stars.

"Awards like these are extremely important, not only for the athletes who win them, but all those who are nominated," Fitz-Gerald said.

"It inspires and motivates them to push harder to win them."

Fitz-Gerald said competitive drive had been the secret to her success, but she said her biggest win had not come in the form of a world title or a trophy.

"A lot of people have said the great thing about sports are mates," she said.

"That is so true, I have friends all around the world because of squash.

"I keep returning to certain countries and places all the time, and it is nice to catch up with your friends and get away from it all."

She said she had noticed the Wimmera's passion for sport, particularly the members of Horsham Squash Club.

"All the members were so enthusiastic in the clinics," she said.

"Which is so good when you come to country regions."

Horsham Squash Club member Launa Schilling said Fitz-Gerald's visit had been extremely valuable.

"Most got a lot out of it," Ms Schilling said.

"She was giving them something to think about, and go away and practice."

Ms Schilling said some players were able to win a point against the world champion in the challenge matches.

"Most people got one to three points, but I think Sarah was being kind," she said.

"It was a bit of a fundraising effort for the club, with member Rob Marshall offering $5 for each point won."

Fitz-Gerald said she would be looking to return to the Wimmera in the near future, hoping to expand her visit beyond Horsham.

Patrick O'Meara