David Kelly

David Kelly

G’Day my name is David.

I first met Peter, Claire, Rebecca, and Megan in Rockhampton in 1999. I have kept in touch over the past 24 years. They were my first ‘Adopted’ Family. We connect weekly, even the special Christmas, Birthdays, and any other celebrations. I have seen them navigate the ups and downs through the matrix of life. They are a very honest, humble, caring, happy, funny, and generous. Their best trait? They are truly authentic.

I grew up on a family farm, mixed farming, and grazing. I then went to Sydney to complete a trade in Sheetmetal. It was in this time I became a bit busted up from footy and a vehicle accident. For rehabilitation I would swim and started riding a bike to and from work. I then gravitated towards Triathlons in the mid-80s.

I was then motivated to go to University in Lismore to study exercise and sport science. I must’ve been good at, it took me 8 years!! In between study I worked as a Swimming Coach at a boarding School, Sports Scientist with an Academy of Sport, and Physical Education Director at a Health Retreat.

Post study, I worked as a teacher in Boys Education. I like to travel, so I set about where to go next? Darwin came calling as did Rockhampton where I worked as an Open Space Sport & Recreation Officer. I returned to NSW and commenced work with Hunter New England Health and the University of Newcastle in Population Health.

Due to health and family reasons, I have taken leave from work. I volunteer at the local Parkrun, Inverell Mountain Bike Club and Community Gardens. For exercise I wash up and eat my porridge quickly! Seriously, I try to ride my bike, help make Mountain Bike Tracks, and shovel compost. I love being in nature.

The main message in this bio and motivation to do the ride is for Claire Elizabeth Reaburn. An amazing and resilient soul. A great wife and mother. She is also my friend whom I love dearly. The best part about Claire is she tackles challenges head on. It’s tough! Rare Ovarian Cancer is an insidious illness. Claire rides the waves of Specialist Consultants, routine blood tests, and unknown treatments. She is an absolute Champion. She is a winner. I’m going to help her!