COL’S CHAT Locals through my Lens

“I sometimes can’t believe it myself!”

Speaking about his adventurous life, local legend, Ron Ward, is a man whose youth resembles a Dickensian novel; a tale of hardship, endeavour and ultimate reward. Raised by two orphans and living in a tent, Ron began working from the age of five, selling everything from newspapers, chickens and puppies. Fast forward to 2023, and I’m chatting to a man whose positive appreciation of life is truly infectious: A boxing legend, a charity ambassador, a farmer, a roustabout, a soldier, a boilermaker, an athlete and – if our chat is anything to go by – a master storyteller! He’s even got a park in The Gap named after him!

“I left school at 12. I must have worked over 50 jobs, from tannery ‘stripper’ to gym owner.” The Courier Mail’s Fighter of the Year in 1957, Ron became synonymous with boxing in Queensland. “I never really liked fighting, but my trainer said I could do well. I always went flat out in everything I did, and became amateur state champion, and eventually turned pro.”

Many locals will know Ron from his service to the veteran community. “Becoming a soldier was not high on my list, but in 1958, I found myself called up for National Service and, for the last 30 years, have been Honour Guard for Brisbane’s ANZAC and remembrance ceremonies.”

Awarded the Lord Mayor’s Senior Australian of the Year in 2021; husband to Ruth, and father to four children, this effervescent octogenarian is a truly genuine, honest, inspiring and funny bloke.

Just make sure you set aside plenty of time if you ever say to him, “Tell us about the time when…”

Author: Colin Bushell

Colin Bushell is an award-winning photographer, writer and educator. OriginallyfromLondon,hehasbeen a Gap resident for 18 years but – when fate lets him – he spends up to three months of the year on assignment around the world, looking for stories and images.

Colin teaches photography in fun and engaging workshops, both in the classroom and out on location. He is always keen to share his secrets of the trade and has featured on the ABC and other media outlets.

Colin is also President of The Gap Creative Inc.