Brother Olly Pickett: A Perth Community Hero Driving Wheelchairs for Kids to New Heights
Despite being honoured as Western Australian Senior of the Year and Australian Senior of the Year in 2025, Brother Olly Pickett has remained steadfastly focused on his mission rather than personal accolades. At 83 years old, this dedicated co-founder continues to expand the reach of his not-for-profit organisation, Wheelchairs for Kids, from its bustling workshop in Wangara, Perth.
Expanding Impact Through Community Spirit
Operating from a busy factory floor, Brother Olly and his team of approximately 800 volunteers craft adjustable wheelchairs designed to grow with children in Australia and developing nations. Each wheelchair is shipped overseas with handmade crochet blankets and soft toys, adding a personal touch that reflects the charity's compassionate ethos. "The last 12 months have been absolutely fantastic," Brother Olly remarked. "Since winning the award, we've been able to increase production to 30 wheelchairs a day." This surge in output meets rising global demand, fueled by both increasing need and robust local support.
Brother Olly attributes the organisation's success to Western Australia's strong community spirit, describing it as a "great circular thing" where volunteers from diverse backgrounds connect and collaborate. "It's a real community," he emphasised, highlighting the collective effort that drives their life-changing work.
Spotlight on Service and Nominations for Awards
The spirit of service embodied by Brother Olly is gaining renewed attention as nominations close this week for the 2026 Western Australian of the Year Awards. As a retired Catholic school teacher, he believes such recognition can illuminate the often quiet, behind-the-scenes efforts of individuals. He encourages West Australians to nominate deserving candidates, whether they are volunteers, mentors, small business owners, or neighbours.
Past award recipients have leveraged the platform to expand community programs, launch innovative businesses, and represent Western Australia on national and international stages. This underscores the awards' role in elevating local impact to broader recognition, ensuring contributions continue to inspire long after the ceremony.
Celebrating Western Australian Talent and Contributions
Celebrate WA chairman Scott Jones noted that the awards showcase the talent and generosity of West Australians across categories including community, business, arts and culture, sport, youth, professions, and Aboriginal leadership. "Every year we are reminded of the depth of talent and generosity across Western Australia," he said. "The Western Australian of the Year Awards shine a light on the individuals who are quietly, and sometimes boldly, shaping our communities, industries and culture."
Three finalists will be selected in each category, with winners announced at a gala ceremony at Crown Perth on May 28. Nominations can be submitted by scanning a QR code or via the Celebrate WA website, offering an opportunity to honour those making a difference in the region.
