Peter Smith

Peter Smith – Profile

Peter Reaburn and I first met in 1977 on the beach at Coolangatta, while competing in the Queensland Surf Life Saving Titles. We discovered that we were studying Human Movement Studies together at University of Queensland and have been friends ever since. We played rugby and touch football together, surfed together, and went to each other’s weddings.

After Uni, I became an Air Traffic Controller (ATC), working in Mt. Isa, Sydney, Newcastle, Archerfield, and Brisbane. I retired in 2014.  As an ATC, I still was involved in sport and exercise. I taught aerobics, coached rugby union, touch football, and was the strength and conditioning coach for a women’s hockey club. I also refereed rugby to a high level.

I had two children, one of who represented Australia in hockey. And through hockey, I became a sports commentator for a Livestreaming company. For the past 10 years I have been commentating hockey, water polo, and volleyball.

I was devastated to hear of Claire’s diagnosis with Rare Ovarian Cancer (ROC). I am honored that my mate Peter has asked me to help make this Ride for Research happen in 2024. I enjoyed it so much in 2022, despite getting Covid with two days to go of the 2022 ride, that I am backing up to support this great cause in 2024.