Imagine dedicating two decades of your life to keeping a 200-kilometer stretch of highway pristine, only to face financial strain just to keep your efforts going. That’s the reality for 80-year-old Michael Filby, a retired police officer and tireless volunteer in Walpole, Western Australia. For the past 20 years, Michael and his trusty 1975 Lada Niva have become a symbol of dedication, logging enough kilometers to circle the globe four times—all in the name of keeping the South Coast Highway spotless. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite his unwavering commitment, Michael receives just a $2,000 annual stipend from the Shire of Manjimup, with no additional support from state or federal governments. Now, the community is rallying to ensure his legacy doesn’t fade away.
The story took a turn when local hairdresser Jo Lane discovered Michael had spent $4,000 of his own money to keep his aging vehicle running. Moved by his selflessness, she launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of raising $30,000 to cover his operating costs for the next three years. “He’s a silent achiever,” Jo explains. “He’s always chatting, but rarely about himself or the incredible work he does for this town. You can see the results—the highway is spotless because of him.”
And this is the part most people miss: Michael’s efforts aren’t just about picking up trash; they’re about preserving the beauty of Walpole and setting an example for future generations. Local chemist Emma McKinlay was one of the first to donate after hearing about Michael’s car troubles. “It broke my heart,” she recalls. “He’s a pensioner, and he’s been funding this almost entirely on his own. I knew I had to help.”
Shire of Manjimup councillor Jennifer Wilcox, a founding member of Walpole Tidy Town alongside Michael, has been tirelessly seeking funding for his work. “We’ve knocked on every door imaginable—government departments, corporations, grant bodies, you name it,” she says. “Now that Michael’s 80, this feels like our last chance to ensure he can step back with dignity.”
Michael himself is determined to continue as long as his health allows, but the financial strain is undeniable. “I’ve spent $100,000 of my own money over the years,” he admits. “I’m running out of funds, but I’m doing this for the future.” He sees this campaign as his “last throw of the dice” to secure the support he needs. “The government says it’s the public who litters,” he points out. “Well, now we’re asking the public to help us keep going.”
But here’s the bold question: Should individuals like Michael bear the financial burden of cleaning up public spaces, or is it the government’s responsibility to step in? As the community bands together to train a successor and protect Michael’s legacy, this debate is more relevant than ever. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going.
