Community & Business
9 April, 2023
Nudgee boys ready to race
THE Nudgee College boys are getting geared up for this year’s Great Wheelbarrow Race (GWR), with the Brisbane based all boys collage determined to take out the top spot in the 20th anniversary race from Mareeba to Chillagoe.
From their first ever race in 2015, the Nudgee boys have made themselves known on Wheelbarrow Way, smashing record times all with a smile on their face.
This year, the boys will be raising funds for Little Windmills, an organisation that helps sick kids from the country get the medical assistance they need in the city – a charity that is close to the heart of the runners.
Trip leader Brent Mitchell is ready to bring his previous knowledge of the race to their team and is prepared to lead his team to victory for a good cause.
“I initially heard about the GWR when I moved from Brisbane to Innisfail in 2014. The church I was a part of was putting together a team to raise funds for a charity that aims to abolish modern-day slavery,” he said.
“I really didn’t know what I was getting myself into when I said ‘yes’. It was a tough competition but so much fun. Despite the shin splints and sore arms, I always looked back on the competition with a smile on my face.
“When I moved to Brisbane to teach at Nudgee, I wanted to be a part of our team that does the trip up for the GWR. Having competed alongside the Nudgee team in 2014 I knew they were serious about the
competition, so it’s great to be leading the trip now.
“GWR is an excellent opportunity to give back to our FNQ community and take part in a truly unique experience. Our students get so much out of it, and we are seeing a continued strength of students wanting to be a part of our team.”
In the lead up to the event, the Nudgee boys are keeping fit and strong with their chosen sports whilst also participating in sessions where they learn to wield the wheelbarrow.
George Coorey is one of the boys who are competing in this year’s race for the first time and is keen to touch down on Far Northern soil.
Although nervous to compete, he believes him and his teammates have what it takes to make it over the finish line.
“I was a bit nervous when I found out how long the event was. Three days of running is not easy,” he said.
“However, I’m really look-ing forward to spending time with my mates and supporting this great cause. The running will be tough, but it’ll be easier doing it with mates.
“I believe it is important forkids to get involved in charity events especially when they are young. It’s an important part of being Australian. We are here to support each other and if we have the ability to enjoy it at the same time then I believe it is im-portant for us to do it.”
Nudgee College would like to thank their sponsors and those who have contributed to the $14,000 they have raised so far for this year’s race – Clear to Work, Holland America, Bridgestone (Nundah + Gee-bung), Harcourts Property, Stream Creative, Springers Solar and Agrimix.
