By MEGAN OGLE
THE Tewantin Tickers have a fire cracker in their midst with long-time walker Dorothy Jenkins the first to pound the pavement over 500 times.
Ms Jenkins joins fellow tickers twice a week to walk 5km from the Noosa Marina, along the Foreshore and back to the Marina.
Not only is Dorothy the first to complete 500 walks, which she was awarded a pin by the Heart Foundation in February for her efforts, she is also the oldest walker at 89 years old.
“I used to play golf to keep fit but the course was quite hilly, walking is the next best thing,” Ms Jenkins said.
“Walking is so good for you.”
The Tewantin Tickers are part of the National Heart Foundation Walking initiative which sees people from across Australia form walking groups within their community to take a step towards a healthier life.
Ms Jenkins said the group, which consists of over twelve members, walks their route rain, hail or shine.
“We walk for over an hour and we set a good pace, there’s no crawling,” Ms Jenkins said.
“And the discipline is really good, you don’t want to let the group down so you always turn up.”
Ms Jenkins said she is very grateful locals Janet and Albert started the group more than six years ago as she thoroughly enjoys her morning walks and catch ups with long-time friend Lorna.
If you would like to be a part of the Tewantin Tickers join the group each Monday and Thursday from 6.30am at the Noosa Marina. Everyone is welcome to participate in the free group and you’ll surely spot Ms Jenkins there!