The Avon Advocate – When dreams become reality: Northam Senior High program helps students ‘Follow the Dream’

Graham ‘Polly’ Farmer was quite simply one of the greatest AFL players of all time.

He is still venerated as possibly the finest ruckman ever to strap on a pair of boots in a stellar career that took him from East Perth to Geelong in the VFL.

From humble beginnings, Farmer set out to follow his dream. Through talent and determination, he more than achieved it. Today, his foundation helps support and encourage other Indigenous young people to pursue their dreams as well.

Northam Senior High School initiated its own Follow the Dream program in 2003 and it continues, under new coordinator, Joe Manning, to offer opportunities to qualifying Aboriginal students.

This year, participants will be exposed to educational excursions, reward activities and stimulating speakers as well as the normal individualised tuition and other academic supports.

Meanwhile, a new ‘Outreach’ program will spread to local ‘feeder’ primary schools and other nearby secondary schools to establish important links across the region.