In our November Newsletter we proudly wrote about Old Paradian Brother Olly’s selection as the winner of Western Australia’s Senior Australian of the Year for 2025. We can now proudly write that Br. Olly was announced as Australia’s Senior Australian of the Year.

Br. Olly completed his schooling at the ‘Old Bluestone Pile’ in 1959.

Now aged 84, he co-founded Wheelchairs for Kids in 1996, which provides adjustable wheelchairs and occupational therapy expertise for children in developing countries.

His volunteer-run organisation has built and fitted more than 60,000 custom-made wheelchairs for children in 80 countries.

Br. Olly was so very proud on receiving firstly, the WA award, and now the Australian Award.

He spoke of the joy and reward of helping disadvantaged children. “Without wheelchairs, children in poorer countries are often left on the ground waiting for help” Br. Olly said.

“These wheelchairs have helped thousands of children go to school, play with their friends and lead a more fulfilling life.”

Br. Olly dedicated his award to the countless number of volunteers that have contributed so much.

Br. Olly’s acceptance speech can be found in the link below on the Daily Advertiser.

https://www.dailyadvertiser.com.au/video/national/x9czufq/2025-senior-australian-of-the-year-brother-thomas-oliver-pickett-am/