A DAY IN THE LIFE: Kevin Jenkins

IF IT weren't for a stroke three years ago, Kevin Jenkins would be spending a lot more time outdoors pursing his passions, gardens and gardening.

"It set me back a bit,” he said.

"I fall over a lot.

"So I don't get into the garden like I used to any more.”

Once upon a time, Mr Jenkins' garden was a prize-winner, and he perfected his skills during the day as well, working as a groundsman and gardener for a private school and church in Brisbane.

In 1990, Mr Jenkins and wife Marlene moved to Warwick and after working a few different jobs, Mr Jenkins landed his dream job as groundsman at Warwick West State School.

It was a position he would hold until his retirement in 2007.

"That was my favourite job, by far the best time of my life,” he said.

"They were wonderful people, wonderful children and it was a wonderful place to work.

"I looked after all the gardens, mowed the grounds and kept the sports grounds in order.

"It was a great source of pride for me and well appreciated by the community as well.”

Mr Jenkins said he was still recognised by students from his time at West.

"They see me down-town and say hello,” he said.

"I do miss the job and the kids.”

All of this was a far cry from Mr Jenkins' first career.

Born in Tasmania, he left home at 17 and took off for Brisbane to join the army.

It was before the outbreak of war in Vietnam and Mr Jenkins reached the rank of corporal, working in communications.

In 1963 he married Marlene and the pair moved to New Zealand for a change of scenery, where Mr Jenkins re-enlisted, rising to the rank of sergeant.