On the trail to health success & stroke awareness

I’m so passionate about health and nutrition, and I love motivational speaking and having the opportunity to impact others. I hope to continue with those pursuits in my career.

Tommy Quick
Bachelor of Human Nutrition

Since the age of 12 when he suffered a massive stroke, Tommy Quick has been overcoming adversity and smashing his goals. Tommy’s latest achievement – gaining his VU Nutrition degree – will soon be eclipsed as he takes on the epic ride of his life, to raise vital funds and awareness for stroke survivors.

“In Year 7 my life changed forever when I had a stroke. I awoke after five weeks in an induced coma and had to learn to swallow, walk and talk again.

Going back to school the following year was harder than I could have imagined. My attention span was impacted so it was difficult to concentrate when I wasn’t interested; which is why it’s so important for me to study subjects I enjoy.”

Inspired to learn, determined to succeed

“I’ve been fortunate to have teachers throughout my education who inspired me to pursue my dreams. I’d always loved sport so studying PE in Year 12 came naturally.

After school I completed TAFE studies in Fitness at VU Polytechnic and became a personal trainer, which I loved. I discovered my course’s pathway into the Bachelor of Human Nutrition, enabling me to build on my existing knowledge and specialise in nutrition and health.

I got so much support at VU, from teachers to disability services. If I needed anything, I barely had to ask. Teachers treat students as equals. They provide clarification, extra time and help with planning. All the teachers were exceptional, and senior lecturer Helen McCarthy was phenomenal.

I’m so passionate about health and nutrition, and I love motivational speaking and having the opportunity to impact others. I hope to continue with those pursuits in my career.”

Taking on the ride of his life to give back to others

“In 2014 I completed the Kokoda Track – once I came off that incredible high I was looking for the next challenge.

I wanted to raise money and awareness for stroke survivors, so from August 2021 I’ll be tackling a 9000 km bike ride over a year, to the four most extreme points of Australia. It’s never been attempted before and I’m hoping to visit 100 schools and raise a million dollars.”