Kate and Tick Everett, parents of Amy “Dolly” Everett and founders of anti-bullying initiative Dolly’s Dream, said they are proud to be named the 2019 Local Heroes at the Australian of the Year Awards tonight.
“We are honoured to accept this wonderful recognition for our work on Dolly’s Dream and to keep children safe in our community,” the 2019 Northern Territory Local Heroes said.
“We congratulate the other nominees and wish them well in their efforts.”
Dolly’s Dream was set up by Kate and Tick, following the tragic death of their daughter, Amy “Dolly” Everett, who took her life on 3 January 2018.
Her death deeply touched people across Australia and led to increased demands for action to reduce bullying and cyber bullying.
With the assistance of national children’s charity, the Alannah & Madeline Foundation which works to keep children safe from violence and bullying, Dolly’s Dream raises awareness of cyber bullying, builds capacity and skills in schools and communities, and helps to reduce bullying behaviour.
“A little over a year ago we would never have dreamed of the journey we have travelled,” Tick said.
One in four children are bullied at school and one in five have experienced cyber bullying, Kate said.
“We will use this award to further escalate the work of Dolly’s Dream to help parents, schools, teachers and community groups raise awareness of bullying and understand the consequences, and find better ways to stop bullying,” she said.
“We want to thank all our family and friends and especially our daughter, Meg, who has been our rock in this last 12 months. The people in Katherine and all over the Northern Territory have been amazing.
“Thanks also to the extraordinary generosity of the Australian public for their messages, letters and your donations which have meant we are be able to bring about changes in Dolly’s name.”
