The catchcry 'Guts It Out' will be ringing in the ears of many participants taking part in the inaugural GIO David Turnbull Memorial Bike Ride later this month.
The three-word motto was a staple in the vocabulary of the late former City of Whittlesea and Mitchell Shire CEO David Turnbull OAM, who passed away from cancer aged 61 in March 2020.
Friends and colleagues have organised the ride to celebrate Mr Turnbull's life and his immense contribution to the community through a local government career spanning more than 40 years.
The event comes just weeks after Mr Turnbull was honoured on Australia Day with a posthumous Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to local government administration.
Riders will set off from the Whittlesea Community Centre at 10am on Sunday, March 26 with the option of completing either a 20km or 40km circuit.
Fittingly, the 40km route traverses both the City of Whittlesea and Mitchell Shire Council municipalities, which Mr Turnbull served for 21 years and four years respectively.
Both circuits will finish at the Whittlesea Fire Brigade, with participants rewarded with a commemorative T-shift and a barbecue lunch.
City of Whittlesea CEO Craig Lloyd described Mr Turnbull as a "true humanitarian" who he had worked closely with for a number of years.
"He was greatly respected by staff and community alike for his calm and considered approach to leadership and his genuine interest and care for all," he said.
"David is remembered for his legacy in many areas and was a pioneer in growing the role of local government advocacy. He also led the City of Whittlesea through the challenging aftermath of the 2009 bushfires."
Mr Turnbull served as the City of Whittlesea's Director of Planning and Development from 1994 to 2007.
From 2007 to 2016 he served as the Council's Chief Executive Officer and in 2016 was appointed CEO of Mitchell Shire Council.
The ride's entry fee is $35, which includes a barbecue lunch and commemorative T-shirt, or $10 for just lunch. All proceeds will go to the Country Fire Authority.
