Just over a decade ago the 72-year-old retiree was successfully treated for melanoma, which returned four years later, in 2012, with a far more dire prognosis.

"The second time I was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma and I was given just three weeks to live," Price recalls.

"I was under the care of Prof. Long who at the time was leading a new clinical trial with a focus on targeted therapies and immune-oncology in melanoma. Fortunately for me, the therapy worked and the changes were detected almost immediately.

"It meant six years away from bike riding but it saved my life. The whole experience has made me realise we only have a small window of opportunity in this life to make things count.

"It also showed me the value of support from family and friends... I know I could not have endured that period of my life without my partner Lyn Hyland." He also paid tribute to lifelong friends from Port Stephens, Bob and Jenny Hobson.

Over a cycling career spanning many decades, Price has raced at various levels both on the track and on the road and has represented three states NSW, Victoria, Queensland plus the ACT.

"I have always been very competitive [as a cyclist]. I thoroughly enjoy its competitive nature and the many benefits the sport now that I am in the masters class."

So much so that at the recent national masters championships held in Brisbane, Price landed two gold and two silver medals in track pursuit and point score, sprint and scratch, culminating in the overall 70-75 years age champion. He won the same title two years earlier in Melbourne.

"I am now in training for a shot at the world masters games to be held in Manchester in October. That's the plan for now."

A keen swimmer and traveller when not pedalling the streets and paths of Port Stephens, Price is about to ramp up his training schedule in the lead-up to the world titles, preparing to cycle two hours a day to maintain a competitive level of fitness.

He also hopes to avoid any nasty falls, which have also had an impact on his schedule in recent times. "Yes, I have had mys fare share of injuries", which include breaking his pelvis in six places and more recently cracking six ribs after his bike got caught on a bad section of road at Anna Bay.

"My love for the sport outweighs all else... all your troubles disappear when I am out riding, and it allows me to relax and wind down."

He also has a message to people everywhere, particularly those like him who unknowingly spent their early childhood outdoors without protection: "Get yourself checked for melanoma."