REMEMBERING JACOB MINGO – CARNARVON’S WOOLWORTHS TROLLEY MAN OF 35 YEARS

BY TANGIORA HINAKI

Carnarvon is mourning the loss of one of its most recognisable faces, Jacob Mingo, who worked at Woolworths for 35 years, collecting trolleys and helping shoppers.

Jacob’s sister, A proud Yindjibarndi woman, Margaret Ranger, said her “baby brother” started working as a teenager, doing work experience at Woolworths before moving into the trolley team, a role he never left.

“He had a friendly smile and a heart of gold. He helped everybody, no matter who they were. If he saw someone struggling, he’d help put their shopping in the car and take the trolley back. That was our trolley boy,” she said.

Mr Jacob’s dedication to his work was matched by his love for his community. Ms Margaret said he looked after their mother, living with her and making sure she had her medicine every morning before heading to work.

“He was strong — pushing trolleys in the heat every day takes power in your shoulders and legs. But he loved going to work and meeting people. That’s what kept him there for 35 years,” she said.

Woolworths staff and managers have expressed their condolences, setting up a table with photos of Jacob inside the store. Margaret says his colleagues will attend his farewell.

Mr Jacob didn’t have children of his own but was a father figure to his nieces and nephews.

“He looked after all the kids — fishing, skate parks, lollies, cakes. He just loved them. He touched people far and wide,” she said.

The loss comes only months after the family farewelled a sister, leaving a big hole in their lives. Ms Margaret said her grandson has helped bring some joy back into the family home.

“The little one keeps us happy and keeps our minds busy. Maybe it’s part of the creator’s plan,” she said.

Ms Margaret also thanked the Huck family and John Willow for their care and support of Jacob over the years.

Listen to Ngaarda Media’s Tangiora Hinaki speak with Margaret Ranger: