By CASEY NEILL
HAND Brake Turn has helped to restore an elderly man’s faith in youth.
Students have helped to restore a donated 1984 Ford Laser for Cranbourne man Ron McCurdy.
The two-time Casey Resident of the Year’s 1996 Commodore was stolen from the Cranbourne Centro shopping centre and destroyed in May this year.
Mr McCurdy was there to collect food for the Salvation Army to distribute to people in need – a task he’s been completing seven days a week for 14 years.
“I think they got the kids, I’m not sure if they did or not,” he said.
“I wouldn’t do a thing like that to anybody.
“It was a real good car.
“But never mind, these things happen.”
Mr McCurdy received another car shortly after the incident.
“But the head gasket blew and I was stranded in the middle of the road,” he said.
His wife Dorothy has been helping him to continue his Salvos duties.
“She’s been in the Salvos a long time, I’m only a volunteer,” he said.
City of Casey recommended he contact Hand Brake Turn South Eastern to make the task easier.
Dandenong’s Five Star Automotive supplied a roadworthy certificate free of charge.
“These chaps have been absolutely wonderful,” he said.
“Seeing what you young kids are doing, it gives me a lot of faith.”
One student replied: “I’m glad we can restore faith in humanity for you.”
Hand Brake Turn is a not-for-profit Concern Australia program that gives 15 to 20-year-olds a chance to get their lives on track through training in mechanics, panel beating and spraying.
It runs five nine-week courses throughout the year and students who complete it achieve a Certificate II in Autobody Repair Technology.
Hand Brake Turn is at 7 Hilton Street, Dandenong. Call 9793 1466 for more information.
