Long-time Werribee resident and athletics coach Peter Burke celebrated a special milestone on Sunday, February 23 when he received his Athletics Victoria Life Membership badge for over 50 years of service as a coach and administrator.
Peter’s association with Werribee began when he made the move from Essendon in 1970.
In 1972, he commenced coaching athletics at the Werribee Athletics Club before it later merged into the Western Athletics Club.
Already involved in athletics as a cross country runner and a track and field athlete, he hit the ground running when he made the move west.
“I thought I could be more helpful in Werribee than in Essendon, so I made contact with the local club,” he said.
Despite being an individual accomplishment, the impact he has had on others has been rewarding in its own right.
“When I got presented with my membership, several people got to celebrate with me who I’ve known for more than 30 years.
“They are pretty special people and it’s a real pleasure to get to know them.”
Peter said accolades like a life membership “keeps us [coaches and administrators] going“.
While most athletes train in groups, it takes a certain dedication and discipline to stay the course in an individual sport.
“A lot of it’s solo, so to get anywhere they have to be very persistent and deal with the ups and downs of injuries,” he said.
Despite his half century of service, Peter doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon.
“I intend to go as long as I can.”
Jaidyn Kennedy
