Hero Grams

It has long been a tradition of Australians to show their support of athletes and other sports identities representing Australia to be sent “Hero Grams” or letters of support.

Whilst we are in Canada, parents, supporters, experts and the Skillaroos meet each morning and in a long held tradition, our CEO reads emails and letters of support that have been received, which he then gives to the relevant competitor. 

This is a fantastic boost to the team, going into their competition day with the knowledge that many people, although they cannot be in Canada personally supporting the team, are thinking of them and wishing them well.

An assortment of letters received thus far:

Dear Team Australia,

As the employer of our only Gold Medalist in the 2007 WorldSkills Olympics, I feel an enormous sense of pride to see the next generation - the 2009 Team, preparing to again demonstrate to the world that Australia has the most energetic, skilled and determined young trades people in the world. With a shoestring budget, we have given notice to the world that we indeed are a force to be reckoned with. We have also shown that our trades people are world class young people, second to none, even when not finishing in the top 3 podium places. So to the new team, may I, my wife and all the staff of G-Mac Auto Centre wish you all a fruitful and successful trip. Good luck.

Graeme McMullen
G-Mac Auto Centre, Perth,Western Australia

To Tyson Knight,

Hi Tyson, Christine from ATEL told me you were off to Canada and I just wanted to wish you well. Chris is my daughter. I had the honour of being the first Chairman of WorkSkill Australia in Victoria way back in the early 1980s, We hosted the first National finals then at the World Trade Centre and one of our Brickie Apprentices won Gold in Helsinki. I know it's a daunting task to win a National Final. Good luck in Canada lets hope you bring back Gold, but whatever enjoy the experience.

Regards Kevin Davies

Good luck for the next few days! It will be hard and tiring but you are lucky to have the support of your fellow team mates and leaders. Remember that no matter what happens you are alreadly a winner. And that if you have a bad day, then don't worry about it, forget it, and start the next day anew. Everyone will have bad days its just a matter of getting back on the horse.

Anyway, Good luck to everyone, enjoy your experience. And remember you are all winners already!!!

Sarah Rowsell (2007 Skillaroo, Restaurant Service)

To Team Australia

G'day all Skillaroo Team members! Firstly a HUGE congratulations to you all  for getting this far! I just wanted to wish you all the very best in what will feel like a mind blowing experience for the next few days! Don't forget to enjoy every moment of it as it's something as a previous  Skillaroo I always enjoy remebering! Go hard,give each and every comp day  your absolute personal best and shoot for the MOON! Even if you miss you'll land among the STARS! Have fun and big hugs to you all, I look forward to seeing the updates of  you Skillaroos over the next few days :) GOODLUCK!

P.s dont forget your weeties (Weetbix)! hahaha

Candice Faranda (2007 Skillaroo, Ladies and Mens Hairdressing)

Dear Jessie-Lee,

Firstly, our warmest congratulations for achieving so much in the past year. We are all behind you and sending all our best wishes and support for the competition in Canada.  We know you will do us proud!  No matter where you place in the competition we still applaud you for your passion and your skill and for raising the bar in our industry. Looking forward to following your progress.Go Jessie!

From The whole team at Dermalogica

To Team Australia 

I wish the team every success while competing in the 40th WorldSkills International Competition.

The Hon Peter Costello MP