The 86-year-young Ted Bickford has been named the 2024 Mid North Coast Volunteer of the Year.
Affectionately known as the Graffiti Buster, Ted has been keeping the streets of the MidCoast graffiti free for more than 30 years.
Although based in the Forster-Tuncurry area Ted spreads his services across the region when the need arises.
Ted has managed to almost single handedly put a stop to the trend of “tagging” areas with unsightly graffiti not just with his elbow grease but with his approach to the younger generation.
He was recognised at a ceremony on Friday, 23 August at Port Macquarie, where he accepted the Mid North Coast Senior Volunteer of the Year Award.
“I have been doing this for years and I have built a great rapport with all the kids in the area,” he said.
“The message I spread to everyone is about being proud of your community.”
Ted has worked on his relationship with the local youth to the point that he says the majority of offenders come from outside the region.
“In fact, the local kids will call me if they spot someone doing the wrong thing. And it’s mostly kids visiting or holidaying here.”
Ted’s extraordinary efforts are supported by the MidCoast Council who provide him with a vehicle and the tools and chemicals he needs to do the job the does so well.
Council’s General Manager, Adrian Panuccio, said the organisation was delighted to work with Ted.
“We live in a popular tourist destination and there are some absolutely wonderful spots within our local government area,” he said.
“We don’t want to see it brought down by graffiti which can also impact visitor numbers affecting the local economy.
“Ted does a fantastic job and it’s great to see him recognised for his work that he does in keeping our region graffiti free but also the work he does with the youth and instilling a sense of pride and community in them.”
Residents can contact Ted the Graffiti Buster on 0408 440 309 and while based in the Great Lakes area Ted often travels throughout the MidCoast region.
You can also report graffiti on Council’s Report and Request page on the website.
