Bobby takes on the Billycock

•   Bobby Young and RFDS Physical Health Worker Scott Tomkins are preparing for the inaugural Bobby on the Billycock event. 

By Taylor Clyne,
March 09, 2022

To celebrate the success of local Bobby Young’s new healthy mindset and lifestyle the community is encouraged to attend a walk, run and ride aptly ‘Bobby on the Billycock’ on Sunday March 20.

The initiative is made possible thanks to the Royal Flying Doctors Service (RFDS) who have helped Bobby lose more than 50 kilos through regular training and support.

Physical Health Worker Scott Tomkins said the work Bobby has done was inspiring.

“We offer services across cardiovascular, respiratory disease and mental health with referrals for clients usually coming from
a GP.

“We’ve been working with Bobby for about a year now through exercise based therapy programs to promote positive habits that are sustainable, he’s done a really great job,” he said.

Bobby’s initial goal was to walk from Scottsdale to Bridport but once that was deemed a safety risk, he decided the Billycock was a better option and far more scenic.

What happened next was a surprise to Bobby, with the entire community backing his mission and turning the walk into a physical health event finishing with a Wellness Expo at the Scottsdale Recreation Ground.

Events include the Dorset Council Billycock Hill walk 27km starting at 7am, the Cottage Bakery Tonganah walk 11km starting at 11am, the Rotary North-East Park to Rec walk starting at 10am, the Nugget Sellers Pavilion Community walk starting at 10am (one lap of the oval) and the RFDS Rail Trail Run and Ride 27km starting at 9.30am and 11.30am respectively. 

The Wellness Expo will kick off at 10am with stalls, free massages, a RFDS plane simulator display, line dancing, music, activities for the kids, food, drinks and more.

Entry is just a gold coin donation to RFDS with registrations to all events kicking off an hour before
the event.

Mr Tomkins said it’s about engaging all of the community and outing a face behind the services available locally.

“It’s very empowering to see the community get behind this, we hope it becomes an annual event,” he said.

Bobby added that he was feeling very lucky and motivated,

“I encourage everyone to come and walk with me or participate in another event, it will be a great day and makes me excited for my future health goals,” he concluded.

The event will take place on Sunday March 20, for more information, including times, registrations and shuttle services contact RFDS
on 6391 0504.