The Fred Hollows Award celebrates the efforts of primary school students in year 3-6 who are making positive contributions at school or in the community, particularly in the areas of charity and community service.

The Award is being trialled in the nation's capital, so ACT primary school students will be the first children in Australia to receive the Fred Hollows Award.

Schools will be asked to identify students who are positive leaders in the school community, whether it’s small acts of kindness, fundraising initiatives, being a good role model in the playground or helping those in need.

Gabi Hollows said Fred would be proud that he was inspiring a new generation of philanthropists.

“Fred always had great faith in the ability of Australians, young and old, to care for others,” she said.

“I hope the Fred Hollows Award will encourage students to follow in Fred’s footsteps by looking after people in need.

“You never know, we might just find the next Fred Hollows somewhere in an ACT classroom.”

Nominations for the Fred Hollows Award open on Monday 7 May and close on Friday 6 July.

The ACT Minister for Education and Training, Dr Chris Bourke, will announce the full list of award winners in early August, with a special presentation ceremony to be held in Canberra at the end of August.

The Award is supported by the ACT Government, through the ACT Education and Training Directorate.

The Fred Hollows Award compliments the great work being carried out by ACT schools in teaching students about active citizenship and encouraging children to assist those less fortunate.

If the trial is successful the Fred Hollows Award will be rolled out in other states and territories in 2013.

To support the launch of the Award, The Fred Hollows Foundation has produced a new video (see above) targeted at primary school students to give them a unique introduction to Fred’s life and legacy.

For more information please contact The Foundation's Community & Schools Education Officer via this online form, or by calling 02 8741 1900.