Hoody’s Helpers

Hoody’s Helpers Birth of Hoody’s Helpers

Graham Hood, QANTAS pilot of over 30 years, an inspiration for all Australians, first made his public statement in September 2021. It was a heartfelt resignation from his job as a captain for QANTAS, due to the mandating of Covid-19 Vaccinations to be able to continue work.

Graham’s video went viral, and it resonated with many people, whether they were in the same position as he found himself in, or as a sympathetic citizen. It was an emotional time for him, and his genuine feelings and dismay for the situation was evident.

From this heroic standing point, an amazing community has birthed. Graham (Hoody to us all now) has inspired an every growing number of everyday Australians to step up and offer their services, support and stand with him to unite our country once again. Hoody’s Helpers, a group set up to support the mental health and wellbeing of the many people suffering, was founded in October of 2021. It has been, and continues to be, a wonderful support to thousands who have needed it. Many Australians who have suffered mentally and emotionally in isolation during lockdowns, suffered loss such as work, family, and or friends over the past 24 months, have contacted Hoody’s Helpers for support.

If you are feeling this way and need help please go to the link, and someone will be able to support you. Please note, that this is set up as a response to the impact of mandates and lockdowns; it is not aimed at long term welfare.

www.hoodyshelpers.com.au

In only a few short weeks after his original video, the Australian Spirit started to awaken, and others wanted to help in any way they could, and so state groups were started all around Australia, and from that regional groups formed, creating their own communities of support and friendship.

One group we will focus on was started by husband and wife team, Chris and Louise Luke, in November 2021. Friends of Hoodies Illawarra. A region in NSW, the Illawarra (South of Sydney).

By Louise & Chris Luke

Chris was inspired by Graham, and knew that it was time he supported his community. Both Chris and Louise had always had a keen sense of community spirit, and with the challenging times over the past few years knew it was time to swing into action.

The Facebook group was started and the membership numbers grew continuously. Currently the number in the group stand at just under 300.

The challenge that confronted them to start with was ‘How can we help?’ It started with a few posts, offering connection, chats and support. Louise then decided a positive post each day, could help members feel supported and valued.

Chris organised a zoom meeting, and invited Graham and Michelle Hood along to meet everyone, a huge hit! We found out that Graham went to Primbee Public school (a suburb in the Illawarra), so we all felt like we had another level of connection.

Chris invited suggestions of activities and events for the group. From that we had members organise Santa Photos, we had another evening event via Zoom, again ‘Uplift in song’. This was coordinated by a group member Ravilya Geraldine, a director of Sing Australia.

The group has had a number of Coffee catch ups. These are a great way to meet more members. These fill everyone with joy, hope and laughter. Other events that have been organised include some card making days, a Picnic in December ‘Operation Christmas Cheer’. Everyone was invited and we met at a park on Lake Illawarra, shared food, friendship and stories. Graham continues to inspire us all with his passionate Videos and interviews.

In 2022, it is planned to extend the Regional groups and have them come under the banner of ‘Friends of Hoodies’, this will give regional coordinators support and connection, the opportunity to share ideas and network going forward into a much brighter future.

Thanks Hoody for your strength and love. We have begun the rebuilding of Australian Spirit region by region.

There are Facebook pages now for ACT, NSW, Vic, Tas, Qld, NT, WA and New Zealand. Click on the links to find them.

Chris and Louise Luke Friends of Hoodies Illawarra, NSW

Image Credit: Hoody’s Helpers & Unsplash