Brian Tink represented Australia in boxing at the 1976 Olympics as well as in Commonwealth Games, World Championships, and in “Golden Gloves” title fights, earning many honours and lots of medals.

The recently-retired meat works owner however still maintains his keen interest in the sweet science, running four young blokes through their paces at a gym on his farm 20 minutes from Dubbo.

“I was boxing from a very young age, and love to pass-on what I learned to young blokes who are keen,” Brian said.

“Boxing teaches discipline, encourages people to stay fit and focussed, and helps you overcome fears and the many challenges in life,” he explained.

These are principles that have served him well his whole life, he added.

“I’ve never forgotten the lessons I learned at the Police Youth Club and Orana Boxing.

“We were shown how to balance, defend ourselves, and move swiftly either to score or get out of trouble in the ring,” he said with meaning.

Brian has high hopes now for Third Year Apprentice builder, Will Pollard, who was hard at work when we caught-up with him at his homespun gym.

“Will ticks all the boxes so far; he’s really enthusiastic, works all day, and then comes out here five days a week to hone his skills.

“The first time I had him here, I saw he was fighting wrong-footed so, he is now a southpaw (left-dominant fighter), and his whole set-up and power have developed.”

Brian has been utilising his former team-mate, and four-times World champion, Jeff Fenech, to create further opportunities for Will.

“There aren’t many opportunities for young boxers in the bush anymore, so Will heads to Sydney every couple of weeks to do some sparring with Jeff,” Brian said.

“Now he’s heading to Thailand with his troupe for a week.”

Fenech supported Tinky’s assessment of his young charge.

“Will is determined to become the best he can be,” the Australian fight legend said.

“He’s shown that at work and with his honest performances at every training session,” he added.

Ultimately, Fenech said, it’s what’s inside, that separates good, from great, fighters.

“I can help to improve his skills, but it is what’s in his chest, that will determine how far he goes,” Fenech said.  

“In Thailand, he’ll be working out like a professional and have one fight; that will be a real test for him, but I am very confident, Will has what it takes,” he concluded.

The toughest of all sports, and one local kid, could be yet another young bush sportsperson, on the cusp of a great career.