TO his footy mates and fans, he’s Mick Martyn; to business colleagues, he’s Michael. But no matter the perspective, he’s known as a local in Williamstown, where his ties to Hobsons Bay go way back.
Martyn, who attended primary school in Newport and high school in Altona and has lived in Williamstown for 27 years, says a lot has changed.
“You only have to go around Williamstown and Altona to enjoy parks, gardens and coastal views,” says the former North Melbourne premiership player.
“I’ve got three girls; two, four, and six. Access to recreational facilities has been upgraded and made more accessible, which is great for families.”
Martyn remembers kicking a footy with his dad Bryan at Newport Football Club oval, where he started playing at age 10.
The name Martyn is a byword in Hobsons Bay, with the Newport football oval having been named after his father, who also played for the Kangaroos.
“The Bryan Martyn football ground is where Dad played for 10 years,” says Mick. “He donated money back into the community through the family business. I was drafted to North Melbourne at 15 under the father-son rule. And I went on to play 287 games with them and 13 with Carlton.”
Martyn says Hobsons Bay has plenty of natural beauty, with something for everyone.
“I’d recommend a river cruise from Gem Pier, a visit to the train museum in Newport for steam train enthusiasts, and a trip to Scienceworks in Spotswood for all walks of life.”
He says visitors need only go to The Strand, Altona beach and Williamstown footy ground to experience the area’s little gems.
