Cuthbert became a household name following her performance at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics where, as an eighteen-year-old she won a staggering three gold medals.
She suffered a hamstring injury at the 1960 games, and announced her retirement, but then came back to win a fourth gold medal at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.
Cuthbert was a torch bearer at the 2000 Sydney Olympics opening ceremony and she is immortalised in a statue outside the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Tributes have been pouring in on social media with Athletics Australia releasing the sad news a short while ago.
Athletics Australia is saddened to confirm the passing of Olympic legend Betty Cuthbert, Our thoughts with her family & friends. #RIP pic.twitter.com/l4onq19Yke
— Athletics Australia (@AthsAust) August 6, 2017
Thank you for the inspirational memories, Betty Cuthbert. Rest in peace.
— Cathy Freeman (@CathyFreeman) August 6, 2017
The Sport Australia Hall of Fame, of which Cuthbert was a member, also offered their condolences.
“Betty was a true inspiration and role model to all Australians,” chairman John Bertrand said.
“Her feats on the track brought together Australians as one. She loved the country and we loved her”.
Vale.