By Jimmy MeiklejohnONE of Australia’s most popular young country music stars is currently on the road, however it is far from your usual music tour.
Jason Owen is on this third ‘Doin’ it for Rural Aussie Kids’ (DIFRAK) road trip, and recently visited Balranald, stopping to talk to ABC News Breakfast (and visit the town’s renowned bakery).
Mr Owen was on his way to Clare Public School, around 100km north of Balranald.
With only seven students, Clare Public School is one of the 25 small rural schools that Owen is visiting during a two week trek to some of Australia’s most isolated areas.
Mr Owen delivered Christmas presents and spoke to the children about his various experiences as an entertainer who has rubbed shoulders with some of the biggest names in the world, including Justin Bieber.
Originally from the small rural town of Albert, north west of Dubbo, Mr Owen grew up as the only child in the town of 12 people, so is well aware the importance of travelling to these rural communities
After helping out with various charities over the years, Owen wanted to start something himself and so DIFRAK was created in 2019.
“The trip has been absolutely fantastic, its really important to head to these rural parts of Australia that have gone through some hard times,” he said.
Challenging weather conditions have been some of the obstacles that have faced Mr Owen as he completes his road trip.
“I’ve had roads blocked by flood water in some areas, then down the road you have places that haven’t had rain in a long time,” he said.
By the time he ends his road trip on Friday, he would have visited over 2000 kids in person, with many more receiving gifts by mail.
“We have had some trouble, as we initially planned to visit every state, but that hasn’t been possible due to border lockdowns,” he said.
Mr Owen’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, with the former X Factor runner up being recognised for his charitable work over the past few years.
He claimed two awards at the 2021 NSW/ACT 7News Young Achiever of the Year Awards, taking out the People’s Choice Award and the Community Service Award.
He was also a finalist for the Community Achievement Awards for Regional NSW & ACT 2021.
For Mr Owen though, these awards are just an added bonus for the extraordinary work that he gets to carry out.
“We don’t do this kind of work for the awards or accolades, however it’s an absolute honour to be recognised, and I really appreciate all the support,” he said.
Mr Owen has aligned himself with Kids Helpline, handing out drink bottles and wristbands whilst spreading the message to students that support services are available.
“I know it can be hard for these students to talk to their parents about their mental health sometimes, so its good to inform them that there is help available,” he said.
