A TAMWORTH teen is on a mission to put an end to bullying one song at a time.
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Singer-songwriter Hattie Oates is donating half of what she makes from busking at the Tamworth Country Music Festival to Dolly’s Dream Foundation.
The charity, formed by friends and family of Amy “Dolly” Everett, the 14-year-old Northern Territory cowgirl who took her own life after being bullied on social media, aims to provide support to charity groups through fundraising and promotion.
There has been an outpouring of support from all corners of the country for Dolly’s family since the former face of Akubra’s death a fortnight ago, as thousands continue to take to social media to condemn bullying in a mounting nationwide campaign.
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Among them is Hattie.
The 14-year-old Tamworth girl said Dolly’s story resonated with her after being bullied in primary school.
Hattie shared a song she wrote, No More Games, to her Facebook page this week as a tribute to Dolly.
It has since been met with overwhelming support.
“I was in year five when I wrote it,” Hattie said.
“I was probably caught up in the wrong group, and when that fell apart, it was over social media.
“That’s how I got the inspiration to write the song.”
Hattie now happily boards at The Armidale School, and hopes her message will inspire others to help put an end to bullying.
“I thought it was an important topic … and for everyone to know there’s always someone there for a chat,” Hattie said.
“Dolly’s message was to speak even if your voice shakes.”
Hattie will be busking outside Town and Country on Peel Street during the Tamworth Country Music Festival, which kicks off Friday night. Half of what she makes will go towards Dolly’s Dream Foundation.
And when she’s not busking, Hattie will be walking around Peel Street with a blue bucket fundraising directly for the charity.
“Just remember there’s always someone there for a chat, whether it’s a teacher or friends or help lines,” Hattie said.
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