“You don’t have to be the biggest, to be the best”

Every workplace has its fair share of quiet achievers, but perhaps none more so than FT’s Plant Mechanic, Darren Smith. His dedication to achieving an ambition held since he was a five-year-old boy was recently rewarded when he achieved his ultimate ambition of becoming bodybuilding’s Mr Australia.

Darren has been competing in the sport of bodybuilding since he was 16, and won his first Mr Tasmania title in 1996. He went on to win the title again in 2004.



“From there I thought, I can win Mr Australia if I apply myself. It’s taken me three years working away, to go back and compete. On the day, everything came together and I won my ultimate goal.”



Darren describes his training regime as a ‘24-7’ job, demanding total dedication to hours of training each day. He also ensures that he maintains a healthy diet, including eating no less than a kilogram of vegetables every day.

“It’s hard, but it still should be enjoyable. If it’s not enjoyable, you’re doing something wrong.”

Darren also works hard to mentor younger people entering the sport, sharing the skills he has learnt as a qualified fitness instructor.




“I try to show the younger guys that you don’t have to be the biggest, to be the best.”