Regentville Public School welcomed 2024 NSW Local Hero and illustrator, Angus Olsen, on Thursday 26 September, to celebrate its Aussie of the Month recipient at the school assembly. Alongside announcing this month’s recipient, Angus shared his story of helping others through his illustrations and books, as founder of I Draw Childhood Cancer.
To make the most of the special guest visit, students had the opportunity to ask Angus questions about his contribution and active citizenship. Around the world, families, carers and cancer specialists use Angus’ books to help explain and navigate cancer with newly diagnosed children, which was driven by his own experience when his daughter, Jane, was diagnosed with cancer at just 2 years old in 2016. Today, Jane is cancer free.
The Local Hero visit to primary schools is made possible thanks to the affiliation between Aussie of the Month and the Australian of the Year Awards.
“I am delighted to join Regentville Public School to help celebrate their students who look after their community,” says Angus. “Showing and receiving care and compassion are so important for young kids, especially when they’re experiencing and learning so much that is new to them. Recognising these positive attributes and values can do so much to motivate them to continue through to adulthood.”
Aussie of the Month recognises and celebrates personal endeavour, achievement and contribution to community and reflects the values we share as Australians, such as a fair go, mateship, respect and inclusion.
“We love the Aussie of the Month award at Regentville Public School,” says Principal, Jenny Thompson. “In a recent survey of our students, this was ranked the most valued award of all our awards. Our school captains appreciate the opportunity to be part of the selection committee and draw on their unique knowledge and understanding of the nominees. Our nomination process includes the Aussie of the Month four key values of Fair-go, Mateship, Respect and Inclusion.”
The assembly was also attended by Hasan Sowaid, Acting Regional Director for the Department of Home Affairs, which supports the Aussie of the Month program.
