I meet many people when walking my dog in Apex Park at Wellington Point. I meet people of different ages and abilities and over time I find that their lives intrigue me to find out more and I want to share their stories with others. One of those people is local Tom Short.
This is Tom’s story.
Leaving Wynnum, where I lived until I married, we purchased our home in Ormiston where I have lived with my wife and children ever since.
My first job, at the age of 16 was as an apprentice jockey. This was terminated when I outgrew the requirements for being a jockey.
At that time, it was easy to get a job at the Brisbane Abattoirs so, for the next 25 years, I became a slaughterman.
During this time, as my children grew into the computer age, I developed an interest in technology and studied everything about IT I could find.
Then, in 1998 at the age of 43, the Brisbane Abattoir relocated to Sydney and, like everyone else, I was made redundant.
While at the abattoir, I joined the State Emergency Service and spent 26 years with these incredible volunteers.
After redundancy from the Abattoirs, I approached Redland Council where I was employed for the next 25 years, first as a maintenance officer and then as computer technician until retirement.
For many years I have been, and still am, Santa Claus at the Special Childrens Christmas Party in Capalaba and to see these children’s happy excitement is a fulfilling experience.
My wife and I have had a few trips within Australia but as she is still working, our travel plans are on hold for now.
My days are filled with fishing in Moreton Bay and taking my dog Lenny on my early morning walks in Apex Park along with Jeff, Chris and other walkers who have become my good friends.
Some days I take Lenny, my Staffordshire Bull Terrier to visit Jeff and Chris. He is a gentle dog with a great therapy personality
In retirement, I am content.
