Tony Davis is a founding father of Little Athletics in Kyneton and more than 50 years on he remains one of its strongest supporters.
Last week he was honoured for his tireless commitment as Macedon Ranges’ Citizen of the Year in the 2024 Community Awards.
His journey with Little Athletics began with Oakleigh Athletics Club in the 1960s, where he helped to establish the Oakleigh Little Athletics Centre. He went on to run the long jump program at the first Little Athletics State Championships.
When Tony moved to Kyneton as the high school’s engineering tech teacher, he brought his passion for the program with him and helped to establish Kyneton’s club in the 1970s.
“We didn’t know how many feet we’d get on the track. We decided to just go for it and see who arrived,” Tony recalled.
He has been a volunteer at the club every Saturday morning ever since, clocking 52 years of volunteer service.
“The club has always just jogged along. Events like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games usually get kids inspired,” Tony said.
“We’ve also had good support from parents over the years, which has been important.”
In the beginning, it served as a club not only for Kyneton but also surrounding areas including Woodend, Taradale and Castlemaine.
The Kyneton club now has about 160 members and boasts successes of many budding athletes along the way.
Over the years, Tony has held several roles at the club including secretary, starter and line marker, and has represented Kyneton at regional and state conferences. He was made a life member of Kyneton and District Little Athletics Centre in 2007.
Tony said while he was able, he would continue to offer his support to the club.
“I’ve always enjoyed it. It’s rewarding and always great to see the kids,” he said.
Tony’s wife Margaret, and their three children and grandchildren, are proud of his volunteer role in Kyneton Little Athletics and his contributions to the Kyneton community.
He was presented with the Citizen of the Year honour at a ceremony last Thursday.
