Thanks for everything, Yanek

YANEK Olsen’s generosity of spirit has seen him leave a lasting impression on the people who have walked through the Torquay Salvos.

The 70-year-old father of four retired from his position as thrift shop manager last week after serving in the role for six years.

Although it was a bittersweet decision, Yanek said he and wife Lynne were looking forward to enjoying life while in good health.

“We’ve reached a stage where we’re ready for another journey in life. It enables us now, while we’ve got good health, to do what we want, when we want,” he said.

“It becomes more than just running a store. They’re (the volunteers) friends to each other; it creates your own little community within.

“It’s great to leave on good terms; it’s like winning a premiership – you think ‘well, we’ve done this, the people are great, but we need to do things ourselves now’”.

Yanek is best known for his love of sport, with football references slyly creeping into his vernacular during most conversations.

He is a life member at Newtown and Chilwell Football Club and South Barwon Football Club, having spent many years wearing the guernsey for both sides.

“I’ve been doing sport since I was nine-years-old.

“I’ve accomplished quite a lot, and you value what you’ve done and the clubs you’ve been with. Sport’s a big part of my life.”

The avid sportsman has spent much of his life working fulltime, beginning his first job at Geelong Cement Works when he was 17.

He then went on to work at Deakin University for 18 years and was the institute’s fifth employee.

Minister Peter Ellis said Yanek’s diligent attitude had set a sensational example for his fellow volunteers.

“This man has left a rich legacy. He has a beautiful spirit, he’s hardworking and totally committed, and he’s turned that shop (the Torquay Salvos) into one of the best performing thrift shops in country Victoria.

“It’s a great team, but it’s also a great leader who’s a team player. And because of that, we’re blessed.”

Yanek and Lynne will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary next year surrounded by their 14 grandchildren. The couple will also travel to China in April.