Rob’s selfless work recognised

GEELONG drug rehabilitation activist Rob Lytzki is one of Victoria’s nominees for the 2023 Senior Australian of the Year Award.

Mr Lytzki is the founder and director Foundation 61, which is a live-in community that offers support and direction for people struggling with drug and alcohol addiction.

Mr Lytzki started the charity in 2005 after about three decades of his own addiction battles.

The program began at a three-bedroom house and has since shifted to a former children’s home at Mount Duneed for up to 15 people.

His latest project is the House of Hope, a women-only rehabilitation centre now under construction on the fringes of Geelong in what would be a first facility of its type for the region.

In a symbol of the holistic care and support that Foundation 61 provides, its House of Hope is being built with the help of labour from male program participants.

“Robert Lytzki understands how insidious addiction is after battling it for 30 years. But he turned his life around – and now helps others do the same,” his nomination stated.

“Leaving school in Year 8 and eventually overcoming his own addiction, he obtained several certifications and diplomas and a Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Therapy.

“Robert’s dedication, honesty and care has helped hundreds of individuals get their lives back.”

Mr Lytzki is one of four Victorian nominees for the senior Australian prize, which is part of the annual Australian of the Year ceremony featured during Australia Day each year.