Our team were very sad to hear about the passing of three very important people to Travellers Aid, Shane Kelly, Greg Muir and Trevor Huggard.
Shane had been connected with the organisation and our people for decades. He was a passionate sports fan and Collingwood supporter. Shane’s knowledge about Melbourne and its public transport system was always handy when people would come in asking for directions. Shane was a regular visitor to Travellers Aid with nothing keeping him away – even COVID restrictions!
Greg was a proud and passionate Yorta Yorta man who always advocated for his people and loved sharing his culture. He was a talented artist with works spanning over 50 years and exhibited in many galleries. We would always enjoy having a yarn with Greg and enjoyed his great sense of humour.
Long time service users of Travellers Aid, Shane and Greg will be missed by all of the Travellers Aid team. Big thanks to Jodie who planned a morning tea out our Flinders Street service hub to gather with family, friends, volunteers and staff to remember these amazing men and celebrate their lives.
Trevor Huggard
Earlier this month, Trevor Huggard, AM. former Lord Mayor of Melbourne, passed away in his home after a long illness with Parkinsons.
Trevor Huggard’s first interaction with Travellers Aid was during his time as Lord Mayor of the City of Melbourne. On a visit with Barry Humphries to inspect the derelict Regent Theatre in Collins Street, he found a “frightened and hungry teenager” whose possessions had been stolen by a “helpful” man who had managed to get him onto the Tasmanian ferry as a stowaway to Melbourne. Trevor was able to prevent the boy from being locked up and was then referred to Travellers Aid who assisted him with flights and a companion carer for his return to Tasmania.
Travellers Aid President 1993 -1997
With his marketing and economics knowledge, Trevor brought a new energy and approach to managing Travellers Aid.
His leadership contributed to the strength and profile of the organisation through fostering a positive relationship with Melbourne City Council, hiring valuable staff and officers and introducing professional development throughout the organisation.
In the mid-1990s, Travellers Aid’s finances were in dire straits. President Trevor Huggard persuaded the Executive to conduct the risky venture of a raffle for a new car. The effort was such a success that two further cars were raffled. These raffles not only brought in much needed funds, they created valuable publicity for Travellers Aid in Melbourne.
Trevor was a kind and generous man and valued supporter of Travellers Aid. On behalf of the Travellers Aid team, we offer our deepest condolences to his family and close friends.
