Col’s Chat –
Locals through my Lens
Elaine Thompson
As I sit down to spend a delightful hour in the company of Elaine Thompson, I am mindful that as I approach 60, the temptation to wrap up in the comfort blanket of age is growing strong. By the end of our chat, I feel invigorated and inspired.
It turns out that the expression, ‘At your age…’ is one that lights a fire under Elaine. “I don’t need a blanket response for what I can’t do. There appears to be a lot of people out there telling older people that’s it’s OK to do nothing. People need inspiration, and they need to surround themselves with people sympathetic to that desire. We shouldn’t be coerced into sitting back and having a cup of tea; instead, we should be encouraged to get out and about, try new things, keep our body healthy and do our bit to dispel the skewed perception of age.”
Born in Brisbane, growing up in Cairns and then returning to Ashgrove, Elaine does more than talk the talk, she – quite literally – walks the walk. At the age of 83, she took her first ever trip to Hawaii to compete in a half marathon. It all started with a chat with friend and soon-to-be coach, Sharon over a coffee. ‘Why not do a half marathon’ she said. Why not indeed.
“I’ve always been fit, but I was determined to continue to push myself. Following months of training, and a healthy eating regime, I found myself standing on the beach at Waikiki with 10,000 people. The moon was setting over the ocean and my 16-year-old granddaughter, Charlotte was by my side. It was inspirational. My only ambition at that stage was to finish. Despite stopping to help someone on the track who had collapsed, we crossed the line in just under four hours.”
“I was exhilarated. A sense of euphoria swept over me as I told myself, ‘Look what my body has done for me’. My son, Russell said, ‘Gee Mum, I’ve never seen you look so amazing’”.
Elaine has led a successful life of variety, family and a sense that things just need to get done. She exceled at sport, ran a business, modelled, was an art gallery director, worked in early childhood development and worked with a remedial plastic surgeon.
“Whether I decide to do it again in 2027 or not, I will never forget how much better I feel having done it.” If this resonates with anyone out there, Elaine’s advice is to not get frustrated at first, and start slow. “Start with a walk round the block, then two blocks. Then aim for an hour, then a park run/walk, then 10km. Focus on your body, consider your diet. Walk every day. Look at what’s around you, we live in a beautiful place. It enhances your life.”
Author and photographer: Colin Bushell / Colin Bushell Photography
