JOE STILL TRUCKING WITH FORD

WHEN Giuseppe “Joe” Puglia retired as a truck driver at Norlane’s Ford Motor factory 13 years ago, he never expected to return to the site for a vaccination.

The 80-year-old, who has

Alzheimer’s disease, rolled up his sleeves on Wednesday to receive his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

He was also able to experience the Ford site’s transformation into a community vaccination hub for the Geelong and Surf Coast region.

Managed and operated by Barwon

Health, the hub has the capacity to provide vaccines to more than 10,000 people a week.

High-risk priority groups from the 1A and 1B cohorts, along with people in the community over 70 or with health conditions, can now receive their vaccination at the site, in line with Commonwealth prioritisation.

Mr Puglia, born in Sicily, was wellknown during his time at Ford.

Daughter Josie Puglia said her father still liked to say he was the best truck driver at Ford, and was awarded a certificate of excellence before he left.

Ms Puglia said the family was relieved he would be protected from COVID-19 after the vaccination.

“Dad found last year very challenging … he couldn’t comprehend the isolation, but with the help of his medical team, we have been able to keep him happy and comfortable,” she said.

The hub is taking bookings for the phase 1A and 1B cohorts.

If you are eligible, book at barwonhealth.org.au/ coronavirus/booking-a-vaccination or by calling

1800 675 398. This line includes a translation option. Appointments are subject to vaccine availability and available only to those meeting eligibility criteria.