Many people know Mel Tunbridge as a lifelong member of the community, Melinda (Min) Bowerman. Her Dad, Greg Bowerman, was the local barber in Galston and Glenorie for more than 50 years.
In an extraordinary display of endurance and compassion, Mel is set to embark on the Strzelecki Desert 501, a 501-kilometre ultra run through the harsh terrain of the Strzelecki Desert in South Australia.
This solo endeavour, scheduled for July 2025, aims to raise funds and awareness for Wings4Kidz, a charity dedicated to providing free flights for seriously ill children from rural areas to access essential medical care, and support the flooded small town of Innamincka and surrounding areas.
The Strzelecki Desert 501 will see Mel traverse the iconic Strzelecki Track, starting from Innamincka and concluding in Lyndhurst, in an official Guinness World Record attempt. Mel will then run on to the historic town of Farina to finish at the underground bakery, which is open for just 8 weeks per year. This route, known for its challenging conditions, will test Mel’s physical and mental limits as she strives to complete the distance in record time.
Mel will be accompanied by her husband Jason who is by her side in “all of her greatest achievements”. “Jason has seen me at my very best and most vulnerable through these ultra runs. He anticipates what I need before I have even thought about it. And when my brain fails me and my emotions are at their peak, his logical problem solving and intimate knowledge of how I respond to circumstances will get me to Farina”.
Mel Tunbridge is no stranger to extreme challenges. She has previously completed several Ultra-Trail events in Australia and internationally. Mel is no stranger to running in Australian deserts, having run multiple distances in the Simpson Desert and the Kanku Breakaways of Coober Pedy, and she has run the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Mel is a successful executive. She is the Executive Director of the number one Business School in Australia at the University of NSW (UNSW) and is often seen running to and from the Randwick campus on her commute. Residing in Canoelands, she is also an active member of Maroota Rural Fire Service.
As a Mum of 2 young girls, Mel believes it’s important to demonstrate to girls in particular, “it’s cool to do hard stuff”. With notable achievements of their own, it’s clear to see Heidi and Eloise embracing this lifestyle and mantra. They are often seen on the sidelines and finish line of many of Mel’s races and will be part of the support crew for the Strzelecki Desert 501.
Mel remains resilient, using her experiences to fuel her passion for encouraging others and her partnership with the charity Wings4Kidz is no exception. Her ability to juggle her professional responsibilities, athletic pursuits, and family life is a testament to her strength and determination. With the Strzelecki Track currently closed and under floodwater, the planning and training continues.
The ultra run is not just about setting records; it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of children and their families. By supporting Wings4Kidz, Mel hopes to ensure that more children can receive the medical attention they need without the added stress of travel logistics and costs.
For more information and to support Mel Tunbridge’s Strzelecki Desert 501, visit the official website www.strzeleckidesert501.com.au or tap her on the shoulder at Galston Parkrun most weekends
