Staff members at Whitsunday Regional Council are rallying behind one of their own as he heads to London to represent Australia as a cyclist in the Paralympics.
Council has arranged for 25 posters to be put up across the region, with locals able to leave messages of support for David Nicholas, who has worked with council since 2009, and is scheduled to depart for London on August 7.
Having already made a name for himself in Australian cycling circles following road race victories in 2009, 2010 and 2011, David won his first international medal in the road time trial at the 2011 Road World Championships, before becoming a world champion in 2012 after winning the 3km individual pursuit at the UCI Track World Championships, held in Los Angeles.
Council Deputy CEO Jon Gibbons described David as a valued employee who enjoyed the support of his colleagues.
"David started off as a trainee, and he’s now an IT support officer," Mr Gibbons said.
"He’s quite an incredible young man," he said. "He hasn’t let anything get in front of his goals."
"He’s achieved so much in such a short period of time.
"Everyone at council is very supportive and hoping for the best," Mr Gibbons said. "He definitely deserves it."
Long-time local Alan Dufty, who won medals at the 1984, 1988 and 1992 Paralympic Games, had only one piece of advice for David as he became the first person to leave a message for him at Fausts IGA yesterday.
"Treat it just like any other race," he said. "It takes the nerves away."
The posters will be located in most major shopping centres, all the libraries and council offices.
