Dr Conrad Winer – Sydney-based Consultant Physician in Rehabilitation and Musculoskeletal Medicine, and an ASLM member – must surely be the poster boy for ‘practising what you preach.’ Dr Winer recently completed the City2Surf, placing 9th in his 80-99 division.

He’s not new to the 14km circuit either. So, what drives him to keep doing it? Conrad explains, “I’m running again in the City2Surf partly because I enjoy it, and partly – as an octogenarian – to get the message across of how following a natural lifestyle reaps immense rewards in health, fitness and enjoyment.”

Coming from a family of naturopaths and osteopaths, he grew up with a focus on healthy living, including following a vegetarian diet. And the benefits really speak for themselves, “Neither of my parents nor myself ever needed to attend hospital (as a patient).” As a Director of the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Medicine for 17 years, Conrad has indeed still spent his fair share of time in hospitals over the years, and he continues to work in full-time practice.

Not only is he passionate about improving people’s health, but Conrad is also an advocate for animal welfare – nominating World Animal Protection as his charity of choice for the City2Surf. From campaigning in the 1940s, at the age of 12, to end animal exploitation in circuses, to later winning a RSPCA medal for rescuing animals in floods in his teens, Conrad’s support for a cause has never just been lip service.

We would like to congratulate Dr Conrad Winer on his City2Surf efforts, and also for being such an inspiring role model to the next generation of practitioners.

You can still help him reach his funding goal for World Animal Protection. If you have some spare change and would like to join us in supporting this great cause and an everyday hero, head to Conrad’s page – every little bit counts. Donations close 11 September, so go on and donate now!