For Burnie teenager Matty Dunn, getting his learner’s licence means more than just time behind the wheel. It means freedom.
Matty lives with Fanconi anaemia, a rare genetic condition that requires ongoing medical care and has shaped much of his young life.
Now, thanks to his local community, he is about to receive the keys to a car of his own.
The Rotary Club of Burnie West and Burnie Mazda have teamed up to give Matty a near-new demonstrator vehicle, a gift aimed at helping him build independence and stay connected with the people and places he loves.
“He’s a very popular young man. Has been for years,” Rotary Club of Burnie West president Ricky Charles told Pulse.
“And people love a good story. They really do.”
The idea started at home. Matty’s grandmother, Cheryl, who has been quietly saving for years, reached out to the club hoping something could be done.
“She’s saved up $10,000,” Charles said. “And [that led to] a deal with Burnie Mazda if we could raise $20,000, they’ll put in the rest.”
Charles took the proposal to his members, who backed it on the spot.
The club is now working to raise its share, with its major fundraiser, a ferret racing night at the Burnie Central Townhouse Hotel, just eight weeks away.
“With a story like this, that’ll be no problem,” Charles said.
For Charles, who has spent almost 15 years in Rotary, Matty’s story is exactly why he keeps showing up.
“The majority of us are lucky, but there is a certain part of the community that are unlucky,” he said.
“We can’t give everyone a car. We haven’t got that sort of money. But you can do a bit to help.”
“And if that doesn’t hit you in the heart, well, nothing will.”
Burnie Mayor Teeny Brumby said the gift was about much more than a set of wheels.
“This is Burnie at its very best,” Brumby said.
“Well done Rotary Club of Burnie West and Burnie Mazda for your generosity and Matty we are all cheering you on for the journey ahead.”
The club and Burnie Mazda were on Friday finalising which car will best suit Matty as he takes his next step towards the open road.
