Spirit of service: Brother Olly Pickett Perth community hero as Wheelchairs for Kids expands reach

Despite being named Western Australian Senior of the Year and Australian Senior of the Year in 2025, Brother Olly Pickett has spent little time dwelling on the accolades.

Instead, the 83-year-old has stayed true to what matters most to him — expanding the reach of his not-for-profit organisation, Wheelchairs for Kids.

From a busy factory floor in Wangara, Brother Olly and his team of about 800 volunteers build adjustable wheelchairs for children in Australia and developing countries.

The chairs are uniquely designed to grow with the child and each is sent overseas with handmade crochet blankets and soft toys stitched by volunteers, adding a personal touch to every delivery.

“The last 12 months have been absolutely fantastic,” Brother Olly said. “Since winning the award, we’ve been able to make 30 wheelchairs a day.”

Demand for the life-changing chairs continues to rise, reflecting both growing global need and increasing local support.

Brother Olly believes the organisation’s success is rooted in Western Australia’s strong community spirit.

“It’s a great circular thing,” he said. “Our volunteers are from all walks of life, and they connect with each other. It’s a real community.”

The spirit of service championed by Brother Olly is again in the spotlight, as nominations close this week for the 2026 Western Australian of the Year Awards.

The retired Catholic school teacher said being recognised in the prestigious awards can shine a vital light on work that people often do quietly behind the scenes.

He is encouraging West Australians to reflect on others who deserve acknowledgement — whether a volunteer, mentor, small business owner or neighbour.

Past recipients have gone on to expand community programs, launch innovative businesses and represent WA on national and international stages — reinforcing the awards’ role in elevating local impact to broader recognition and ensuring their contributions continue to inspire well beyond the ceremony night.

Celebrate WA chairman Scott Jones said the awards recognise and showcase the talent and contributions 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. 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,” he said.

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 the QR code or via the Celebrate WA website.