Walker, who has variously been an architect, sportsman, a media celebrity, sports commentator and author kicked off the annual appeal for Legacy Wollongong and South Coast at a business lunch yesterday.

The sold-out event heard Walker speak on the various stages of his life and career from his childhood in Tasmania, to his success as an author.

In an engaging and entertaining speech, Walker discussed how his father's early influence and support provided the platform for all that he has achieved. Despite not having a plan, Max has navigated a career path that is both an inspiration to many and is a reflection of both his own and his father's dream.

The key to success is the ability to embrace change, whether it be in the sporting world or in business, he said.

Max's talk provided lessons from his own experiences, however he also drew on the experiences of some of the major influences in his life starting with his father (Max Senior), and including Norm Smith (the outstanding VFL/AFR super coach), Kerry Packer and Sir Donald Bradman.

In a brief chat with the Mercury, Max spoke of his admiration for Sir Donald Bradman and commented on a Sydney Morning Herald report suggesting that his Test average may have been recorded incorrectly.

"Whether the real number was 100 is really a matter for sports statisticians. However, for the man in the street, the generally recognised number (99.94) has attained an iconic status of its own," he said.

The Business Lunch is the second activity that Legacy has launched locally this year after their successful golf day held on May 2 at the Grange.

The money raised will go towards supporting around 1334 widows and dependants in the Illawarra.

The six individual Wollongong and South Coast Legacy clubs support almost 3000 widows and dependants.