Making a Difference at St Paul’s College, Kempsey

St Paul’s College, Kempsey, Aboriginal Education Worker Sharon Kelly has been selected as a Panadol Care Package Community Member Award finalist. (2 September 2022)

Congratulations to St Paul’s College, Kempsey, Aboriginal Education Worker Sharon Kelly, affectionately known as Aunty Sharon, for her nomination as one of the finalists for the Panadol Care Package Community Member Award. 

The Panadol Care Collective is an initiative created by Pandol to recognise exceptional Australians who have made a positive difference in their communities. The Panadol team found Aunty Sharon to be a truly influential Australian who has gone above and beyond to care for others. 

‘I saw a Panadol Care commercial during the holidays, and I started thinking about the people in our community who I could nominate for their commitment and passion for making a difference through equal opportunity,’ said teacher Jessy Haaring.

Aunty Sharon is an Elder of the Dunghutti Nation who is adored by her community. She is known for her passion and for encouraging the best out of every person she encounters. Since 2005, Aunty Sharon has been an active role model for young people within St Paul’s College and other schools in the Kempsey area to support students to flourish through various programs that promote positive community engagement.

Currently, Aunty Sharon is involved in multiple community projects such as the learning of language, Sorry Day activities, Retreat Careers and Wellbeing Expo for Indigenous students. She has been involved in the Year 12 Graduation process and has worked as a Teacher’s Assistant to provide classroom support for teachers and students.

In recognition of her contribution to the Kempsey Community, Aunty Sharon was awarded a $1000 gift voucher in appreciation of being the true embodiment of the Panadol Care Collective community.

The staff and students at St Paul's had the opportunity to collaborate with television presenter and former competitive swimmer Johanna Griggs to film a commercial celebrating Aunty Sharon.

‘I found the experience of being in the ad quite fascinating. It was cool to see the director telling everyone what to do and how it was a long process just to be in the ad for a few seconds,’ said Year 7 student Levi.

‘It was a fun experience to be in the commercial and speak about Aunty Sharon,’ said Year 7 student Mason.

Congratulations to Aunty Sharon for being chosen to share her inspirational story with Australia. 

Below is the Panadol ad that was aired last Sunday.