The whole town will be cheering on as Uniting AgeWell home care client Mick Hallinan carries the Queen’s Baton on his mobility scooter through Kerang next February.
The 94-year-old was one of 22 Gannawarra Shire locals selected to carry the Commonwealth Games baton on 16 February, 2018, while on its journey to the Gold Coast.
Mick was selected because of its outstanding contribution to the community.
He was born in Kerang and brought up on a wheat and sheep farm at the edge of the Mallee.
He spent some time working at the railways in Melbourne and moved to Cohuna to work at a dairy fairy for several years. But the little town of Kerang always called Mick home.
Raising a dozen energetic children – six girls and six boys – meant Mick became heavily involved in the local sporting clubs.
“Most of the family went through little athletics and then the Kerang Swimming and Lifesaving Club, with three getting into competition swimming,” he said.
“Being a parent in swimming, you need to be involved. That took a bit of time with various competitions, most often as a timekeeper.”
Mick supported the swimming club by assisting coaches every week day for many years, even after his children stopped the sport.
He was surprised to hear Kerang Swimming and Lifesaving Club put his name forward for the honour because most of his voluntary work was “some years ago”.
His children, who have moved away from Kerang, will return home to watch their dad carry the baton and join in the community celebration.
Mick started receiving home care support through Uniting AgeWell in February. His Client Advisor, Michelle Whitelaw, said he was an inspiration.
“It’s a privilege to work with someone who’s been so actively involved in the community and still living well at home,” she said.
“When you work in a smaller community, especially, you really get to know your clients and he is so deserving. I am so proud of him.”
For more information about Uniting AgeWell’s Home Care Package options, call 1300 783 435.