Published on Friday, 22 December 2023 at 1:06:07 PM
The Shire of Ngannyatjarraku is delighted to announce the appointment of its new Sports and Recreation Officer, Michael (Mick) Hardy.
Mick has a diverse background with significant experience working in remote regional communities, and metropolitan Adelaide gained during his 13.5 years working with the South Australian Police Force (SAPOL). His extensive background in law enforcement, coupled with his understanding of the dynamics of remote communities have equipped him with the necessary skills, and experience to provide benefit to the communities within the Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku.
Prior to his tenure with SAPOL, Mick enjoyed a successful career as a professional cyclist and cycling coach at both State and National levels. His expertise in working with junior and senior athletes reflects a commitment to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle, and we look forward to seeing Mick bring his knowledge and expertise from these roles to the community.
Mick is passionate about the health and happiness of the youths in the community. His enthusiasm in delivering positive outcomes is infectious and is reflected in the smiles of the youths when they see and interact with him. Mick recognizes and appreciates the warmth by which he has been welcomed into the community, who have been eager to engage in friendly waves and conversations.
In his spare time, Mick remains dedicated to his love for cycling, and has plans to get a mountain bike to explore the lands. He can also be found in the gym or using the pool early in the morning. He is a devoted Adelaide Crows Football Club member for 11 years and looks forward to watching them play.
In anticipation of a fulfilling tenure at the Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku, Mick aims to organize engaging activities for children and youths, giving them something fun to look forward to every day. Furthermore, he has a vision of providing the opportunity for a happy and healthy lifestyle to children and youths, and additionally hopes to involve parents. With thanks to the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries for their support through their Community Place Based Grant, Mick is already able to deliver some of these engaging activities during the school holiday period at least until December 2024.
Mick will be taking over the roles from Angelica McLean and Oddie (Oriwa) McKay-Sio. Angelica and Oddie are both valued members of the Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku and have been working as part of the Sports and Recreation team for significant time.
Growing up in similar circumstances, Angelica knows firsthand the challenges young people face, navigating the streets and searching for something meaningful to do. Her unwavering commitment to uplifting the youth in our community is truly inspiring. “I have always had a passion for working with the youth in the NG lands. I grew up being one of those kids walking the streets, climbing on roofs etc. because I had nothing else to do”
Oddie excels at delivering high-energy activities that engage our youth. She loves the freedom it offers, saying, "Not only do we (sport and recreation officers) have the opportunity to be positive influences for our youth to learn from, but our youth have and can be positive influences on us, too.”
The Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku warmly welcomes Mick, and we look forward to the exciting contributions he will make to the community.
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