L-R: Viking Plastics Managing Director, Malcolm Ling, presenting longtime employee, Martin Hickey, with a “gold” welding gun
Following in the steps of his father, Martin Hickey commenced at Humes in 1976. As a fresh young sixteen year old, Martin learned the craft of plastics fabrication. In 1983, the plastics fabrication division of Humes was sold to Viking Plastics. Martin and his skills were acquired by Viking Plastics where he continued to work for the next 31 years as an expert in specialised plastics fabrications, fume cupboard fabrication and fan assembly. Says Martin, “our fans used to be made by hand using flat sheet PVC – the fans I made 36 years ago are still running today!” In 2015, Martin announced his retirement plans and on December 16, 2015, completed 38 years as a long time and very valued employee of Viking Plastics.
Martin’s work ethic was very much old school – fiercely loyal with rarely a sick day. He loved his work. Viking Plastics is renowned for its leading edge innovation in plastics fabrication and Martin welcomed every professional development opportunity to upskill to new technologies. With a rare talent for thinking outside the square, Martin’s problem solving ability was a real asset. The team spirit on the factory floor was enhanced by Martin’s dry sense of humour and willingness to share knowledge and expertise with co-workers, not to mention organising the footy tipping and Melbourne Cup sweeps!
Martin’s work life was balanced with a love of footy and horses. Martin’s father, Harry Hickey, was three time best and fairest winner for the Bulldogs (1939,1945,1948) and ran second in the 1939 Brownlow Medal count. With football in his blood, Martin loved spending time coaching the Red Hill Juniors. Breeding and training horses was also a passion with much time spent at country race meetings.
Martin is retiring to farm life in Gippsland with his wife, Penny, where they can spend more time with their horses. Martin was presented with many gifts at his farewell, including a much treasured “gold” plastics welder. He leaves with the well wishes from all at Viking Plastics.