Just four months ago, Jennifer broke her ankle in training and had to have nine screws and a plate, a total of 800 grams of metal, in her ankle to keep it in place.

She was told by medical staff that she should rest for six to nine months, however, doctors were so impressed with her recovery that they told her it was all right to fight.

"Now I am finished it hurts but while I was playing and getting my medal it didn't," Purcell said.

Purcell had three fights, winning two and losing one.

Competitors came from China, Taipai, South Africa, the Pacific Islands and all over Australia for the event.

Purcell has had a long history in the martial arts. She has been involved in Judo for nine years, and has been competing at a national level for six.

In April last year, she came fourth in the Oceania.

"It was a big step to go to Oceania and it was another big step into the international arena," she said.