The Old Paradians’ Association April lunch was a wonderful celebration where we were able to acknowledge Br. Thomas ‘Olly’ Pickett AM (1959), Australia’s Senior of the year, 2025. After securing the Western Australian Senior of the year, Br ‘Olly’ was given the national award on Australia Day earlier this year.

Br ‘Olly’ co-founded Wheelchairs for kids in 1996 that has grown enormously over the years through his guidance and inspiration. Today over 60000 custom built wheelchairs are built per year going to over 80 countries around the world. Remarkably the wheelchair is built to grow as the child grows. Wheelchairs for kids have over 250 volunteers in the workshop in production and 550 volunteers engaged in sowing soft covers for the wheelchair cushions, crocheting blankets and making soft toys that go with every delivery.

David Jones AM (1959) introduced Br Olly to the 60 luncheon guests and was able to share the story of his classmate at the ‘Old Bluestone Pile’. Pleasingly a number of Br Ollys’ school friends made the effort to attend the lunch. Br Olly spoke of his great pride in his award and the work of the volunteers. He spoke glowingly of meeting Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Governor General Sam Mostyn AC. The Governor General was overwhelmed by the Wheelchairs for kids story and arranged to visit the factory on her next trip to WA, which she did, staying much more than what her schedule provided. Br Olly spoke of how the “wheelchairs have helped thousands of kids around the world to get to school, play with friends and lead more meaningful lives.”

Old Paradians’ Football Club Coach Ben Turner gave guests and update on the Club and how it was shaping up to the challenges of Division 2 NFNL after winning the Division 3 Flag in its first year in 2024.

Pat Mount (1962) again did an excellent job as Master of Ceremonies. He made a special welcome to Andy Kuppe (1983), Chief Executive Officer of EREA Victorian Schools Ltd, Mark Aiello (1990), Principal of Parade College, Ben Turner, Hayley Workman, Alumni Officer at the College and our female guests in attendance.

We look forward to our May Luncheon. Noel Clement OAM has rescheduled his attendance due to work commitments. Ms Terri Crisafi will be presented with our OPA Women of Distinction Award for over 40 years of service to the College at the Lunch. Des Tobin will be our special guest speaker in May. After a 43-year professional career in funeral service, writing biographies and family stories, he will be able to speak of his latest publication, ‘Its in the Genes: Australian Football Families.’