Marco Meini wants to ride his bicycle through 18 countries.
Camera IconMarco Meini wants to ride his bicycle through 18 countries. Credit: Supplied/Andrew Ritchie

Gardener’s global search for freedom

Staff ReporterWestern Suburbs Weekly

The Perth resident and friend Giovanni Gondolini, both 30, left their hometown of Ravenna, Italy in February last year with an aim to visit 18 countries on their bikes.

They arrived in Perth in January and next month leave for Melbourne via Margaret River, Esperance and Adelaide.

From there, they plan to travel through Bangkok, Vietnam, China and Mongolia.

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‘We’re looking forward to the adventure,’ Mr Meini said.

Jim’s Mowing franchisee Adri Verhagen, of Floreat, employed Mr Meini soon after he arrived.

Mr Verhagen, who owns franchises in Floreat, Cottesloe and Claremont, said his Italian worker had become popular with his clients.

‘His gardening is amazing, especially his hedge trimming and pruning,’ he said.

‘He learnt how to mow lawns and is now as good as anyone.’

Mr Verhagen has exposed Mr Meini to several local activities, including go-karting, diving for crabs in the Swan River, surfing and snorkelling at Mettam’s Pool.