NSW driver told to hand in rego plates over personalised tribute
The personalised number plates on Ekrem's car mean the world to him.
The letters "FCANCR" represent a precious tribute to his late mum Aynur, who fought for 10 years before losing her battle with cancer in 2020.
"Beautiful memories with her growing up, she was an extraordinary lady," he said.
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The letters "F-CANCR" represent a precious tribute to his late mum Aynur, who fought for 10 years before losing her battle with cancer in 2020. Nine
For three years, Ekrem has proudly boasted the plates on his black Volkswagen hatchback.
"It was a way for me to honour her, like I don't come from money, I couldn't do a grand gesture like build some sort of monument or open up some sort of facility or clinic," he said.
That was until Transport for NSW got in touch and ordered Ekrem to hand his plates in.
"I received a letter from Transport NSW saying that I need to return my number plates and they listed a number of reasons," Ekrem said.
For three years, Ekrem has proudly boasted the plates on his black Volkswagen hatchback. Nine
"I mean the 'F' could mean fight ... it's up for interpretation."
Troy Johnson, who has incurable pancreatic cancer, has his own personalised number plates, which read "TERMNL".
He says it's his way of making light when sometimes the light is hard to see.
Johnson is throwing his support behind Ekrem.
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Troy Johnson, who has incurable pancreatic cancer, has his own personalised number plates, which read "TERMNL". Nine
"Essentially, when I see the the 'F cancer', whether it's a sticker or whether it's a number plate, personally I always find it gives me a comfort because going through this battle ... it's just nice to know that it's not just me that's suffering," Johnson said.
"I think he absolutely should be able to keep his number plates."
After contacting Transport for NSW, A Current Affair received an unexpected call saying Ekrem could keep his plates.
Transport for NSW secretary Josh Murray said he was "very happy to say we'll put this to bed".
The personalised number plates on Ekrem's car mean the world to him. Nine
"I guess we're sorry that Ekrem and his family have been caught up in this scenario," Murray said.
"We want to support Ekram and his family in the use of these plates, and we'll be in contact with him today to make sure that happens."
It was welcome news for Ekrem.
"I don't even know what to say I'm so happy. I'm genuinely so happy that this has happened," he said.
"I am so thankful for you guys. You guys did an amazing job. I mean, before the day even finished, I'm so I'm so happy. Thank you so much."
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