Life Member: David Boshier
Inducted: 2025
David’s journey with Corroboree Athletics began in the 2013-14 season when he joined as a proud dad, supporting his son Angus in the U10s. While it’s unclear if his daughter Ana started in the U6s that year, she was definitely competing in the U7s the following season.
David quickly became an integral part of the club, joining the Committee at the end of his first season. By the 2014-15 season, he had stepped into a coaching role as an assistant and has remained a cornerstone of the coaching team ever since, becoming coach coordinator in 2023-24 after the passing of John Hunt.
Former club president Ingrid Takken recalls David as an invaluable Committee member from the outset. “He was always engaged, and his contributions were spot on,” she said. “He was quiet, but when he spoke, everyone listened.” Alongside his coaching, David also served as a qualified official, representing Corroboree at representative carnivals — a role he continues to this day.
During the early years, David balanced his club responsibilities with demanding commitments abroad, often leaving mid-season for work at Oxford University in the UK. Despite these challenges, he contributed as much as possible, often stepping in proactively to address issues without being asked.
In recognition of his dedication, David was awarded the John Hunt Club Person of the Year Award in 2019-20, alongside Rainer Reuss, for their longstanding contributions to coaching.
With his overseas commitments easing, David took on the Vice President role in 2020-21. He initially approached the position with modest expectations, but unforeseen circumstances required him to step up significantly. When Garry faced some health challenges and was unable to run the meets, David stepped in and managed the club and events, ensuring Corroboree ran seamlessly.
David’s contributions extend beyond the Committee. In 2017-18, he introduced the Corroboree Frog Day, inspired by an idea from his son Angus. This annual event, which supports the Tidbinbilla conservation program for the endangered Corroboree Frog, has raised between $1,000 and $1,700 each year. David has nurtured a lasting relationship with the program, and every detail of Frog Day reflects his hard work and commitment.
More recently, David joined the board of Athletics ACT (now Capital Athletics) to aid the unification of Little Athletics and Athletics Australia. His advocacy led to Corroboree becoming a club for all ages, enabling athletes to proudly wear Corroboree’s blue and yellow at senior meets without needing to join another club. This milestone was instrumental in encouraging other clubs to embrace the ACT merger of the two bodies. For his efforts, David received his second John Hunt Club Person of the Year Award in 2022-23.
As David steps down from the Vice President role, his daughter Ana graduates from the U6-U17 age group. While Ana may continue competing in senior meets, David plans to remain involved as a coach and general Committee member to support the club’s transition to new leadership. This year marks his 11th year on the Committee—a testament to his enduring dedication.
David’s contributions have been supported by his wife Kate, who has consistently volunteered at meets, and by Angus and Ana, who have both helped in various capacities throughout the years. Their family’s commitment has been the cornerstone of David’s long-standing service to the club.
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, we are honoured to award David Boshier Life Membership of Corroboree Athletics.