John Simon wins 2018 Bathurst Electorate Grandfather of the Year

Mr Simon was awarded the title of 2018 Bathurst Electorate Grandparent of the Year, and was presented the award in a surprise visit to the Seymour Centre by State Member for Bathurst Paul Toole and Minister for Ageing Tanya Davies. 

“I was told to be ready at 9 in the morning for something that was being kept a big secret,” Mr Simon said.

“It is a big honour to receive this award and I am very grateful for this.”

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The award went to the 82-year-old on the basis of the outstanding role he has played in raising his six grandchildren, all of whom are now adults. 

He has also been a positive role model for his two great-grandchildren, whom along with his grandchildren, has taught important life skills in the fields of gardening, cooking and music.

“I love my kids, and they certainly are a big part of my life,” he said.

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Mr Simon emigrated to Australia from Croatia in 1958, and after working as a sugar cane extractor in North Queensland, he moved to Sydney to pursue his music before eventually settling in Bathurst.

“When I first came to Australia I brought a saxophone and flute with me, and once I moved to Sydney, I started performing live in clubs,” he said.

Mr Simon has appeared at the SDN Hamilton Street Children’s Education and Care Centre to perform music for the children, as his great-grandchildren attend the centre.

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The NSW Grandparent of the Year Awards celebrate the valuable contributions grandparents and seniors make to their families and communities.

It is run in conjunction with NSW Grandparents Day, which occurs every year in late October.

“People like John Simon are an inspiration to all local residents- both young and old- and I want to thank him for his selfless efforts,” Mr Toole said.