Mick Gatto tells of the joy his autistic grandson brings to the family’s life

From ruling the streets of Carlton to preaching love, joy and charity Melbourne hardman Mick Gatto has come a long way.

Mick Gatto and his grandson Dominic, who has autism. Picture: Tony Gough

Melbourne identity Mick Gatto has set up a not-for-profit organisation to raise money and awareness for autism.

Gatto, and his wife Cheryl, are the backers behind Equal Access For Autism, which aims to improve the lives of children and teenagers on the spectrum.

Gatto’s grandson, Dominic, 14, has autism.

“Autistic kids are so pure of heart. He’s brought so much joy to our lives, and we just love him to death,” Gatto, who has five grandkids, said.

Gatto added: “Domi loves to climb, and sometimes we have to rein him in because of his impulse for adventure.”

Gatto said he was smitten with his role as a grandfather.

“It’s a different level of love when you have grandkids,” he said. “It’s what you live for. There’s nothing better.”

Gatto has been moved to raise funds for the “pure of heart” kids with autism. Picture: Tony Gough

Artist Vincent Fantauzzo’s portrait of the pair. Picture: Instagram

Gatto, who runs an arbitration business, said his hard man reputation should not prevent him from trying to make a difference and leave a legacy.

“I love life,” he said. “People have got different opinions about me, but once they get to know me, they know I’m not a bad person.

“It’s my passion to raise as much money and awareness as I can for (his autism charity), and hopefully make a difference. I’m really putting my heart and soul into it.”

Melbourne artist Vincent Fantauzzo has already joined the cause and drawn a greylead portrait of Mick and Dominic.

“My big mate with a big heart #mickgatto inspired by his loving grandson,” Fantauzzo, who is married to actor Asher Keddie, wrote after posting his work on Instagram.