Thursday, 26 May 2022

Robert Karkut

Mr PEARSON (Essendon—Assistant Treasurer, Minister for Regulatory Reform, Minister for Government Services, Minister for Creative Industries) (09:42): I rise to honour the life of Robert Karkut, who tragically passed away earlier this month. Rob made a significant contribution to the Flemington community as the founder of the Flemington Green Ninja Army. Rob organised volunteer ninja greening projects on the streets of Flemington, sharing his love and passion for the environment and local wildlife. He was committed to turning inner-suburban streets into habitat for birds and plants, making them a better place for humans to live too.

Rob’s great talent was encouraging locals to participate in his ninja strikes—planting, collecting rubbish and making local streets more beautiful for all. I have fond memories of time spent with Rob and my wife and kids doing what we could to green up Flemington. Rob instilled a sense of community in his neighbourhood and lobbied both the Flemington Traders Association and the Moonee Valley City Council to join in. Traders and council supported his greening projects with food and drinks for his team of ninjas, protective clothing, hundreds of plants, mulch and a much-acclaimed green ninja suit that he wore to encourage local kids to join the ninja army.

Rob was known for his generosity of spirit and the gentle way he helped and supported his elderly neighbours. Friends and neighbours say that the street where he lived and the Flemington community will never be the same again, such was the love and respect for Robert Karkut. Rob’s legacy will be informed by the many lovely plants, trees and streetscapes that grow and thrive because of his hard work and commitment. Rob is deeply missed by his parents, Annie and Frank, and his partner, Andrea. Vale, Robert Karkut, and thank you for the gift you gave of yourself to our community. We are richer for it.