The catchcry ‘guts it out’ will ring in the ears of many participants taking part in the inaugural GIO David Turnbull Memorial Bike Ride on March 26.
The three-word motto was a staple in the vocabulary of the late former City of Whittlesea and Mitchell Shire chief executive David Turnbull, who died from cancer aged 61 in March 2020.
Friends and colleagues have organised the ride to celebrate Mr Turnbull’s life and his contribution to the community through a local government career spanning more than 40 years.
The event comes just weeks after Mr Turnbull was honoured on Australia Day with a posthumous Medal of the Order of Australia, OAM, for service to local government administration.
The bike ride will raise money for Country Fire Authority, in recognition of Mr Turnbull’s leadership through the Black Saturday Bushfires.
Riders will set off from Whittlesea Community Centre at 10am on Sunday, March 26, with the option of completing either a 20-kilometre or 40-kilometre circuit.
The 40-kilometre route traverses both the City of Whittlesea and Mitchell Shire Council municipalities, which Mr Turnbull served for 21 years and four years respectively.
Both circuits will finish at Whittlesea Fire Brigade, with participants rewarded with a commemorative t-shirt and a barbecue lunch.
City of Whittlesea chief executive Craig Lloyd described Mr Turnbull as a ‘true humanitarian’ who he had worked closely with for several years.
“He was greatly respected by staff and community alike for his calm and considered approach to leadership and his genuine interest and care for all,” he said.
“David is remembered for his legacy in many areas and was a pioneer in growing the role of local government advocacy.
“He also led the City of Whittlesea through the challenging aftermath of the 2009 bushfires.”
Mr Turnbull served as the City of Whittlesea’s director of planning and development from 1994 to 2007.
From 2007 to 2016, he served as the council’s chief executive and, in 2016, was appointed chief executive of Mitchell Shire Council.
The ride’s entry fee is $35, which includes a barbecue lunch and t-shirt, or $10 for just lunch.
To register or for more information, people can contact Bruce Manison on 0448 944 000.
