Bin there, done that

Published Date
17/10/2017
News Topic
Council
(L-R) Jason, Jack and Brendan Gaskin

Jack Gaskin is Australia’s longest-serving garbo in a family which has seen four generations work for Council, clocking up over 100 years’ service between them.

Jack Gaskin is a man who knows a garbage truck inside-out – after all, with 53 years’ service under his belt, he carries the title of longest-serving garbo in Australia – and he’s got two apprentices following in his footsteps.

‘Being a garbo was the best job in the world’, professes Jack. ‘Working with the other guys, they soon become your mates – the camaraderie is wonderful.’

Jack, who now carries out his duties at a more sedate pace driving a compact sweeper between South Kingsford and La Perouse, has been collecting Randwick City’s trash for over half a century. He was inspired to join Council by his own father, Jack Gaskin Senior, who after joining Council in 1957, soon clocked up 23 years working as a Driver. He sadly passed away in 2005, but the Gaskin legacy has long since continued – Jack Jnr. started his career at Council in 1964, followed later by his son Jason in 1990, and this year grandson Brendan also joined the fold.  

Jack Gaskin (far right) in years gone byThe Gaskin family name is certainly one that’s become well-known – and well-respected – around the City.

Joining Council was an obvious step for newest recruit Brendan: ‘I’ve always known it was a great place to work – they look after you at Council. I’m only two months into my role as Apprentice Carpenter, but I’m really enjoying it,’ he says.

(L-R) Jason, Jack and Brendan GaskinAnd for middle Gaskin Jason, a variety of roles during his 27 years has kept things interesting. ‘I started as an apprentice gardener, but I’ve worked as a Sports Fields Supervisor, and as a Team Leader in Beach Services. Nowadays I’m a Business Analyst but whatever I do, I love looking after the community. There’s a lot of pride in what we do, which is why it’s great to have all the family here, too – it’s great to be feel like we’re all contributing to making Randwick City a better place to live.’

And Brendan knows of one other perk of having dad and grandad in the office: ‘There’s always someone to ask for lunch money!’

Last Updated: 1 March 2022
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