“I’m the kind of person that just has to keep going until I get good at something.”
It’s a philosophy that has served Harry Bebbington well over the years.
It helped him transition from working as a plumber to doing a Master’s degree at La Trobe. It fuels the hours he spends supporting older Australians through his work. And it has taken him all the way to the Australian team for the Gravel World Championships this October.
Changing gears and finding purpose
Harry is currently studying a Master of Counselling, Rehabilitation and Mental Health at the Melbourne (Bundoora) campus. He plans to become a rehabilitation counsellor, focussing on supporting people through injury, recovery and major life changes.
But before coming to La Trobe, Harry had already completed a plumbing apprenticeship and spent five years in the trade.
Was this shift in careers something to do with his experiences with injuries as a professional biker?
Harry thinks carefully before answering “I think, personally I enjoy the process and the work that goes into improving myself. And I would like to help others discover their best too”.
From local trails to international meets
For Harry, success has never been about shortcuts. It’s always been about showing up, putting in the effort and staying committed to what matters most.
His love for cycling began with rides alongside his dad on local trails around Melbourne. What started as a childhood hobby gradually became a competitive pursuit resulting in podium finishes at World Series events and the Australian National Championships. It earned Harry a spot on the Australian team for this year’s Gravel World Championships in Western Australia.
Riding along multiple paths
When he’s not studying or training, Harry works in social support, helping older Australians stay connected through community activities and outings. Alongside work and placement commitments, he still finds time to train up to 20 hours each week.
How does he find the time to do all that?
Harry credits the flexibility and connections offered at La Trobe that has allowed him to balance his many commitments while continuing to pursue his goals.
As he trains for the upcoming championships, Harry offers a simple piece of advice to other students who are pursuing their own goals – “Find good people you can lean on, it helps make the journey easier”.
Go Harry!