Latest News

WRAD’s new patrons

One of Australia’s most best-known authors and most celebrated singers have come on board to promote the work of the Western Region Alcohol and Drug centre (WRAD).

Children’s author Paul Jennings and singer Uncle Archie Roach have agreed to become WRAD’s new patrons and ambassadors to spread a message of hope for clients and families with complex alcohol and other drug problems.

Mr Jennings and Mr Roach will be involved in activities and promotions to highlight the effective treatment services offered by WRAD.

Archie Roach, AM, was inducted in the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2020.  He was named as 2020 Victorian Australian of the Year and has been at the heart of Australian music for decades.  His songs go to the heart of people’s struggles and hopes and dreams.

“Archie he will be a worthy ambassador for the work that WRAD delivers to clients in south-west Victoria,” WRAD Director Geoff Soma said.

Paul Jennings, AM, is a celebrated author who has written more than 100 stories and sold more than 10 million books.  He was awarded a Life Time Achievement Award from the Children’s Book Council of Australia.

“Paul is passionate about recovery and providing hope for people whose lives are affected by alcohol and other drugs and mental health,” Mr Soma said.

Mr Jennings, who judged WRAD’s Stories of Recovery writing competition earlier this year, said he felt incredibly honoured to be invited to stand with the staff and supporters of WRAD as a patron.

“Most families in our society have been afflicted in some way by the scourge of addiction,” Mr Jennings said. “The Covid crisis has made their problems even worse. The need for a residential recovery facility in Warrnambool is absolutely essential. I heartily endorse the efforts being made to establish one and encourage everyone to support this wonderful work.”

Mr Roach said he was proud to be a patron of WRAD. “Recovering from alcoholism is part of my story,” he said. “It’s so important for people with alcohol and drug problems to have a service like WRAD that they can access for help. Rehab, as well as my music, saved my life.”

Mr Soma said WRAD looked forward to having Archie and Paul as WRAD patrons and being involved in activities and promotions to highlight the important work of providing treatment for clients and their families.

“Archie and Paul are testament to what hard work and commitment and passion can achieve and both are role models in the communities that they live and work in,” he said.

Archie Roach photo by Phil Nitchie