General News
11 March, 2025
Hero passenger Barry Clark
Former Minyip shearer Barry Clark has become a national hero after bravely tackled an armed intruder on a Jetstar flight on Thursday, March 6.
Mr Clark, now based on Moama, was flying from Avalon to Sydney to see Horsham's Jake Lloyd play his 250th AFL game.
He was sitting in the front row when a 17-year-old allegedly boarded the plane armed with a shotgun; he leapt to action and helped subdue the alleged offender until police arrived.
When the flight finally arrived in Sydney, Mr Clark was greeted with strong applause from Jetstar staff and passengers.
Jetstar chief executive Stephanie Tully said Mr Clark could fly for free to see Sydney play anywhere in Australia.
The 17-year-old was charged with several offences, including threatening the safety of an aircraft and firearm possession.
Meanwhile, footage of the incident has been shared worldwide, turning Barry Clark into a household name.
"I've even had TV stations from the US want to speak with me."
Mr Clark travelled to Sydney with a group of Wimmera fans, including Jake Llyoyd's parents.
Before Friday's game, Jake Lloyd thanked the close family friend, highlighting the situation's seriousness.
"My thoughts are with everyone on board as it must have been a terrifying situation," he told Channel 7.
"It sounds like there were some incredibly brave actions from Barry and others to keep everyone safe."
Mr Clark returned home to Victoria on Saturday before heading to the Echuca races as a corporate sponsor on Sunday.
Now retired shearer was hoping for a quieter life since buying a wedding venue in 2019.
"As well as the farm, we run a wedding and events function centre and accommodation on the farm as well.
"It has been a while since I was a professional shearer, but it seems once a shearer, always a shearer!"
Undoubtedly, his newfound hero status means Mr Clark will never have to buy another beer in Australia.