I work as a Scenes of Crime Officer with the Queensland Police Service (If I could have a dollar for every time I hear “just like CSI”, I’d be extremely wealthy!). The difference between fiction and reality is as follows: I don’t have my hair and make up done at the start of every shift, I wear either overalls or a two piece “blokes” uniform, with “Redback” work boots to complete the look. At times I smell really, really bad depending on the last job I’ve been to and I work on my own (probably a good thing reading the last comment I made). But apart from that I’m really very spoilt and enjoy my job. I live in a house and have lived in Brisbane since 1996 and joined the Pat Carroll running group in Feb 2005.

My favourite restaurant is Chumley’s in New York and Home Hill in Tasmania (it’s a winery restaurant in the middle of nowhere and just a nice place to relax)

My earliest childhood memory is grabbing my mother from the back seat of the car (she was the front passenger) and trying to bite her neck because she wouldn’t stop at the shop to buy me a chocolate. The poor woman has never been the same since!. I can also remember my first day at preschool, it took my mother and the teacher all of their strength to drag me into the classroom. My sister was sooooo embarrassed because she said she could hear me from her classroom which was miles away and everyone was asking “who is that screaming”. She denied that we were in any shape or form related. Believe it or not, I’m actually a really gentle, kind and generous person, I just need a lot of chocolate and didn’t want to go to preschool.

I love being an adult because I can buy my own chocolate and I don’t have to go to preschool.

My favourite movie is As Good As It Gets because behind the harsh exterior is a heart of gold.

Brisbane City is the place I chose to live because the weather is great and it’s relaxed with everything I like close at hand.

My regular holiday destination is usually Coolangatta, Straddie or Tasmania to relax, but anywhere overseas is always great for an adventure.

If money was no option I would donate all the money needed to ensure the Guide Dog Association could provide dogs for the blind. I’d also make sure every nursing home had air conditioning in all rooms and I’d love to spend time travelling and studying all creatures great and small (I love animals). On a purely selfish level I’d live in New York, Denmark and Sydney and I’d race V8’s and Superbikes and shop constantly.

It frustrates me when people don’t have the guts to apologise for doing the wrong thing and blame others for their actions.

I have been involved in running since 2004 and my most memorable running experience is the Noosa Half marathon.

I enjoy distance running because it relieves a lot of stress and it gives me some “me time” where I’m alone and no one bothers me.

My favourite run is anywhere where it’s peaceful and relaxing.

Motivation is something I have a lot of thankfully.

Injuries are something I don’t have to worry about (touch wood).

Moving to Brisbane was a turning point in my life because I grew up in Tasmania, lived in Melbourne and Adelaide and decided that Brisbane was the place I wanted to stay.

The Pat Carroll running group are a motivating and inspiring group of people, who make the effort to get up early in the morning to better themselves.

I prefer running in Spring and Autumn because in summer I melt and in winter I freeze.

Running is at times really difficult because on longer runs it not only tests your body but also your mind.

The best advice I gave me was “leave that man, he’s a nutter”.

A young man involved in a really bad traffic accident inspires me because when I initially saw him he wasn’t supposed to live and a year later he tracked me down and asked if he could see me to say thankyou for helping him. Although he still had difficulty walking and talking he told me his plans for the future. Anyone who jumps over hurdles to reach their goal is an inspiration to me. I will do my best not to regret anything.

Allyson enjoyed a bit of ‘me time’ during her cool down.

Did you get your photo taken?

The Brisbane Running Buddies and the Regatta Runners are running from The Regatta Hotel this Saturday starting at 6am, running varying distances from around 8k up to over 30k. Brekky/coffee afterwards at The Regatta. All welcome.

Contact tfabian@bigpond.net.au if further details are required.

Mark Jones and friends are running on Sunday from Landsborough Street side of Regatta Hotel. Starting run @ 5:45am.

Tue 7th: 3k Time Trial

Thurs 9th: 50min + No Watch 1k

Make sure you visit INTRAINING @ Park Rd Milton for all your running needs.

I managed to get a good deal on some Mizuno clothing so I am happy to reduce the usual cost of the singlets etc.

If purchased at training:

Singlets $35, T Shirts/Crop Tops and Bra Tops $40

I also have some men’s running shorts in M/L & XL at a cost of $25

You are welcome to take any item home to try before you buy.

The Canberra Marathon could be your first major goal in 2006.

Thank you to pb sports nutriton for your ongoing support in providing product which is used at the group sessions.

INTRAINING stocks an extensive range of TIMEX watches.

INTRAINING stocks an extensive range of MIZUNO shoes and running apparel.

Great features on injury prevention and the best foods to eat. Enjoy our new coaching series where we uncover the truth about various ways to train.

Use our guide to romantic destinations to help you plan a Valentine's weekend getaway. Learn Georgie Clarke's secrets. Answer our biennial reader survey. Plus all the usual columns and departments.