As the iconic Burnie Ten reaches a major milestone, staff at OneCare’s Rubicon Grove aged care facility are taking part in the 40th anniversary event to honour resident and race founder, Captain Mike Boss-Walker.
The Burnie Ten was the brainchild of Capt. Boss-Walker, who in 1984 was a local deputy harbour master and a keen amateur runner. He proposed a footrace that would promote Burnie, an idea that was supported by the Burnie Development Committee.
Capt. Boss-Walker was event Chair from 1985-1990, and also initially held the roles of Convenor and Secretary. He and wife Jenni have lived an adventure-filled life, but he counts his legacy in creating Australia’s premier community running event as his proudest achievement.
Capt. Boss-Walker now calls Rubicon Grove home. OneCare CEO Pete Williams said a group of staff will take part in the 40th anniversary race this weekend to honour his contribution to the race, and the entire region.
“The Burnie Ten is a major, much-loved event that has brought world-class runners and such renown to this beautiful part of Tasmania, while lifting the wellbeing of the community,” Mr Williams said.
“We’re thrilled to celebrate Mike’s seminal role in creating this event, with a group of OneCare staff taking part in this year’s Burnie Ten on his behalf. He showed so much drive and passion to bring the race to life, and it’s an absolute privilege for us to mark his contribution.
“It speaks volumes to the sense of community at Rubicon Grove, and how valued Mike is here, that so many staff have put their hands up to take part. Congratulations on your legacy Mike!”
Capt. Boss-Walker told the Advocate newspaper his advice for staff participating in the race was “to try and finish!”
“I appreciate the efforts put in over the years by volunteers and sporting clubs,” he told the paper. “I’m pleased I’ve given everyone something good to do.”
