Follow the Dream – 21 Years Strong
A Spine-Tingling, Unforgettable Celebration Honouring Legacy and Leadership
The 21st anniversary of the Polly Farmer Foundation’s Follow the Dream program at Sevenoaks Senior College was nothing short of extraordinary — a night filled with cultural pride, powerful storytelling, and moments that brought the audience to tears. More than 180 guests, alumni, families, Elders, staff, community leaders, and supporters, gathered to honour over two decades of transformation, achievement, and hope.
A Warm Welcome to Country and Cultural Opening
From the moment guests arrived, the room was alive with warmth, the smell of kangaroo stew and fresh damper, generous plates of food being shared, and cultural music flowing through the space. Laughter and excited conversations filled the air as alumni, families, Elders, and staff reconnected. Then, the deep, resonant sounds of the didgeridoo filled the room as the boys weaved through the audience with a Spirit Dance, grounding the celebration in culture, community, and pride.
MCs and alumni Andrew Yarran (Class of 2013) and Aaliyah Nestoridis (Class of 2022) guided the evening with authenticity and heart. The program opened with a powerful cultural sequence: a Welcome to Country by Jacqui Eades, followed by the FTD girls performing a tribute dance to the “Ancestors.”
The energy was electric. Guests described it as “spine-tingling,” “powerful,” and “a moment we’ll never forget.”
Honouring Legacy and Leadership
Opening remarks from City of Canning Mayor Patrick Hall celebrated the program’s profound impact on local families.
Kim Farmer, Patron and Vice Chair of the Polly Farmer Foundation, spoke warmly about her father’s legacy and the vision that continues to guide the Foundation today.
A soulful tribute, “Change Is Coming” by Tahlia Pabai (2025), stirred the room before Professor Ted Wilkes delivered a heartfelt response, reminding all present of the importance of cultural strength, belonging, and opportunity.
Principal Dr Karen Read reflected on Sevenoaks’ long partnership with Follow the Dream, celebrating its role in shaping strong, confident young leaders.
Program Coordinator Dr Jennet Hansen delivered an emotional and inspiring look back on 21 years of achievements. She honoured students past and present, families, tutors, and the countless individual success stories that have shaped the program’s legacy. Her message reinforced what Follow the Dream has always stood for: excellence, culture, identity, and opportunity.
A Moment That Stole the Night: Danni’s Story
One of the most unforgettable moments came when Danni Le Page (Class of 2018) spoke. Returning to Follow the Dream 15 years after graduating, she shared her story through tears and a trembling voice, describing the night as a “full circle of emotions, memories and ownership.”
Danni reflected on her younger self; shy, afraid to take up space, convinced opportunities were “too big.” It was Follow the Dream, and mentor Jennet Hansen, that shifted her belief in what was possible.
“Half my lifetime ago, I didn’t dare speak up. But Follow the Dream taught me to believe in myself and after many years, I finally saw it.”
“Whether you like it or not, the opportunities you want to pursue are ultimately your responsibility.”
Her heartfelt words reminded everyone present that the right environment, one that supports you, challenges you, and believes in you, can transform a young person’s future.
Danni thanked the community for creating a night she described as “incredible, powerful and spine-tingling,” admitting she was “still feeling the emotion today.” Her final words resonated deeply:
“When you’re in a room that makes you feel supported and like you belong — that’s pretty special.”
Alumni & Community Panel
Danni then introduced the Alumni & Community Panel, chaired by Christine Ross (Christine Ross Consultancy), featuring: Ian Wilkes, Courtney Eades, Allira Sinclair and Trevor Armstrong.
Their reflections on identity, resilience, opportunity, and community were described by guests as “powerful,” “moving,” and “honest.”
Ian Wilkes, now Perth’s leading director, choreographer, and dancer, spoke about the pivotal role Follow the Dream played in his path, describing how Jennet Hansen’s guidance introduced him to the world of theatre.
“Jennet was the one who directed me, encouraged me, and showed me how to take the next step, including applying for WAPPA.”
Ian’s story highlighted the lasting impact of mentorship within Follow the Dream, showing how guidance, belief, and opportunity can open doors to careers in the arts, leadership, and beyond.
Celebrating Those Who Give Back
A tribute to tutors: Jeremy Chetty, Kirrilee Pedreschi, and Keana Pillay acknowledged the dedication of those who walk beside students every day.Kirrilee and Keana then performed “A Million Dreams” to a backdrop of 21 years of photos — a touching visual journey that had the room smiling, laughing, and tearing up all at once.
Foundation Recognition & Closing
Polly Farmer Foundation CEO Mark Wirtz honoured the students, families, partners, and community whose support has carried the program from strength to strength.
The night closed with both Girls and Boys Dance, sending the celebration out on a high — vibrant, proud, and full of joy.
A Night to Remember
As guests mingled afterwards, the comments were unanimous:
“Unforgettable.” “Emotional.” “Powerful.” “A proud moment for our community.”
The 21 Years Strong celebration did more than mark a milestone; it reaffirmed the heart of Follow the Dream: a place where culture is honoured, students are lifted, families are valued, and dreams are nurtured.
Twenty-one years strong, and the journey continues…