Richard Shirlaw: A Mate, A Mentor, A Man of Many Trades

“My name is Richard Shirlaw and I live at RSL LifeCare Bill McKenzie Gardens, Page. I was born on the 23rd of September 1945 at Wollongong Hospital. I went to Dapto High School and completed my intermediate certificate there.

Throughout my life, I’ve had a wide range of jobs. I started in retail, then moved into contract work selling carpets to clubs. I worked in underground coal mining, spent time at ERNS, and even opened my own bookshop. I’ve held roles in fast food, gardening, and worked as a swimming pool attendant. I managed a motel and a car rental company, worked in construction and carpentry, and eventually became the Operating Manager at the Toyota Warehouse in Australia.

At Toyota, I took on several responsibilities. I was a Forklift Trainer, Safety Officer, Health and Safety President, and Union Delegate for the AMWU. I was involved in negotiating wages for Toyota workers in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. It was challenging work but I was proud to represent my colleagues.

I officially retired in 2000 but I didn’t stop working. I started a lawn mowing and gardening business in Wollongong which kept me pretty active and connected to the community.

I have one daughter and two grandchildren and they mean the world to me. I love spending time with them whenever I get a chance.

In 2022, I moved into RSL LifeCare Bill McKenzie Gardens. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed. The team here are incredibly kind, observant, and respectful to residents and to each other. I’ve had a great time here.

I still look after myself and do my best to support fellow residents and team members. I believe in standing up for people and I’ll keep doing that for as long as I can.

These days I enjoy gardening, attending happy hour and concerts, and reading books delivered from the library. Life here is pretty beautiful, full of laughs, good mates and plenty to keep me busy. I’m having fun and I’m grateful to be part of this community.” – Richard Shirlaw, RSL LifeCare resident