Today’s episode is a particularly special one. We’re speaking with Sally Sweeney, CEO of Dolly’s Dream, an organisation that holds deep significance for so many rural and remote families across Australia. Founded in memory of Amy ‘Dolly’ Everett, who tragically took her own life at just 14 years old following relentless bullying and cyberbullying, Dolly’s Dream has become a national movement advocating for kindness, safety, and mental wellbeing—particularly in rural communities.
This episode isn’t just about raising awareness—it’s about connection. Sally and I talk about what makes Dolly’s Dream such a unique and impactful voice in the mental health space, especially for families living remotely and for young people transitioning to life at boarding school or working on isolated stations. Sally shares the heart and drive behind their programs, including their tailored workshops for schools, workplaces like AA Co stations, and their upcoming program specifically designed to support young people transitioning from remote education into secondary boarding life.
We also explore the important—and sometimes confronting—conversations about bullying. How do we spot it? How do we talk about it, both with our kids and with the adults around them? How do we educate not just the victims of bullying, but the bullies themselves—many of whom don’t even realise the harm they’re causing?
As a mum who’s walked the boarding school journey myself, these conversations strike right to the core of what we’re trying to do with this podcast: create a space where parents feel heard, seen, and supported. Parenting from afar comes with its own challenges—ones that don’t always get talked about. But together with organisations like Dolly’s Dream, we can start changing that.
Whether you’re a parent, a boarding staff member, or someone passionate about the wellbeing of young Australians, this episode will give you insight, empathy, and maybe even a few tools to better support the young people in your life. And for those of you heading to the Boarding Schools Expo in Emerald, you’ll have the chance to meet the Dolly’s Dream team and hear even more about their incredible new transition program.
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