Graffiti volunteer recognised for service to southern suburbs

City of Marion volunteer Alex Mericka has been recognised by Federal Minister Amanda Rishworth for his tireless efforts serving the southern suburbs over the past 26 years.

After a workplace accident in 1993 left him with a broken back, Mr Mericka's life suddenly lacked purpose.

He was unable to work, and doctors told him he would likely spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair.

But the Sheidow Park resident took rehab into his own hands, walking around the neighbourhood for hours on end to improve his strength.

It was during those escapades in the late 90s that he began to notice graffiti all across the Sheidow Park, Hallett Cove and Trott Park areas.

He contacted the Marion Council who supplied him with a can of paint and Mr Mericka got to work. With his trusty fox terrier Baxter by his side, he is still serving his community more than two decades later.

On Friday he was recognised for his efforts with a 2024 Southern Suburbs Volunteer Award after being nominated by Marion Council's volunteer coordinator Lucy Camp.

In 26 years, Mr Mericka has only missed about 32 days of volunteer work.

He said he took pride in caring for the community.

"I had it all ripped away from me when I had my accident," he said.

“Some people just survive [after an accident] but I can do more than that as a volunteer.”

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