Barratt's international debut came in 2005 when she competed for Australia at the World Championships in Montreal, Canada. This marked the beginning of a successful career on the global stage.

Memorable Achievements

One of Barratt's most notable achievements was winning a gold medal in the 4x200m freestyle relay at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. She also secured a bronze medal in the 200m freestyle at the 2012 Games in London. These accomplishments have cemented her legacy in Australian swimming.

Influences and Inspirations

Barratt credits her parents and former training partner Stephanie Rice as the most influential people in her career. She also looks up to Australian rugby league player Darren Lockyer as her hero.

Challenges and Injuries

Barratt faced several challenges throughout her career. In September 2006, she suffered from constant pain due to a severe curvature of her spine. She also struggled with shoulder issues in 2009 and 2010, which led to shoulder surgery at the end of 2009. After the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, she contracted pneumonia and was hospitalised.

Superstitions and Beliefs

Barratt has some unique superstitions. She prefers even numbers and avoids the number 13. These quirks have been a part of her routine throughout her career.

Awards and Honours

Barratt's achievements have earned her numerous accolades. She was named 2012 Elite Athlete of the Year at the Queensland University of Technology Elite Athlete Awards. In 2009, she received the Medal of the Order of Australia. She also broke Tracy Wickham's 29-year-old Australian national 400m freestyle record in 2007, which was recognised as the Golden Moment of the Year at the Australian Swimmer of the Year Awards.

Family Legacy

Athletic talent runs in Barratt's family. Her grandmother, Margaret Johnson, represented Australia in long jump at the 1956 Olympic Games in Melbourne.

Retirement and Personal Life

Barratt retired from competitive swimming shortly after the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. In January 2011, she left the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra due to homesickness and returned to Brisbane. She missed her family, friends, and Queensland's warmer climate.

Current Endeavours

Currently residing in Brisbane, Barratt is pursuing higher education in Medical Radiation Science at Queensland University of Technology. Alongside her studies, she works in logistics.

Barratt's journey from a young swimmer following her brothers to an Olympic medallist is a testament to her dedication and resilience. Her story continues to inspire many aspiring athletes across Australia and beyond.