This 82-year-old hero has been making tracks for 40 years

Publish Date : 27 Apr 2017
This 82-year-old hero has been making tracks for 40 years
Track builder Hugh Willis, right, with Albany Councillor John Watson.

Hugh Willis, an 82-year-old Torbay resident and former Westlake Boys High School maths teacher, has been building bush tracks across Albany and East Coast Bays for the past 40 years.

Working for the benefit of the community

“The work he has accomplished is incredible and has been done for the enjoyment of our community,” says Albany Ward Councillor John Watson.

“This kind of can-do attitude and community spirit is so inspiring and beneficial to many people in our community.”

Hugh’s next goal is to improve a small bridge connection in the Tōtara Forest River Walk in Albany.

“The Tōtara Forest River Walk is my favourite track,” says Hugh. “It has a nice wide river with perfectly formed terraces surrounded by impressive tōtara trees."

“I’d like to thank student volunteers at the Advance Training Centre in Albany for their support and muscle power, and Auckland Council for providing materials and assistance.”

Find out more or lend a hand

Booklets featuring tracks built by Hugh are available for a $5 donation from Albany Library and Torbay’s Unichem Pharmacy.

All proceeds go to the Elevate Christian Disability Trust.

Email Hugh for more information or to help him maintain tracks in Albany.

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