Princess Margaret Hospital, Subiaco (Australia)

Australian Idol Winner Stan Walker Visits Lollipop

WHEN 2009 Australian Idol winner Stan Walker visited Perth’s PMH Radio Lollipop’s studio last week, he realised he had a few things in common with the charity.

Both Stan and Radio Lollipop have family in Queensland, and in New Zealand and they each share a lifelong connection with music.

During his time with Radio Lollipop, Stan joined DJ Ange for a live on-air chat and visited some of the wards. He was very open and friendly, and DJ Ange said, “It was like chatting to a mate.”

He had plenty of time to talk to all the kids even though they were running behind for time, and he was very supportive of the two kids that got up and sang. He didn’t mind singing an extra song for the people that missed his first song, and he put in just as much effort as if he was still on Idol. He was also very supportive of what we do at Radio Lollipop and said that we had a great studio setup,” said DJ Ange.

Charity Coordinator Yvette Carthew said it was a wonderful opportunity for the patients of Princess Margaret Hospital to meet the star. “We are so happy that Stan has taken the time to visit Radio Lollipop and meet some of the patients,” Ms Carthew said.

"A hospital stay can be traumatic for a child and Stan’s visit is a wonderful distraction in a long day for these kids."

“For me personally, it has confirmed why I love being a part of Radio Lollipop and it was very moving to see the impact Stan had on the kids that day,” adds Ms Carthew.

Following the interview, Stan took on the role of Radio Lollipop Idol judge in our attempt at an adaptation of the show that made him famous. Two kids sang for him and his brother, and both won signed copies of his debut album, Introducing Stan Walker.

During his ward visits, Stan stopped and chatted to some shy girls and then sang his version of Hallelujah just for them. It was obvious that Stan was deeply moved by the struggle the three girls were facing. We’re sure he won a few extra fans here, and that onlookers were very touched.

Anyone over the age of 18 with a few spare hours each week can apply to become a Radio Lollipop volunteer, please contact our office on 9340 8835 or visit www. radiolollipop.org for more information.

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