Dreams on the Road: A Family’s Mission Across Australia
Hayden Eastbury, a 17-year-old with a passion as big as the Australian landscape, has set off on a remarkable journey with his family. What began as a personal dream to visit every ABC bureau across Australia evolved into a national tour, aimed at raising awareness about fragile X syndrome and inspiring others living with the condition.
From Newcastle, Hayden, his brother Jake, and their parents rolled out in mid-2024 with a bold plan: to visit all 68 ABC offices scattered from coast to coast. For Hayden, the mission is both a pilgrimage and a practical path toward a future he hopes will include work at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
“I’ve been travelling around Australia with my family, and have been meeting ABC news presenters,” Hayden said. His enthusiasm for current affairs is evident in his everyday conversations, and his favorite ABC program, Back Roads, keeps him tuned in during long drives.
Fragile X Syndrome: A Shared Journey of Understanding
Hayden and his brother Jake live with fragile X syndrome, a genetic condition linked to an abnormal expansion of the FMR1 gene on the X chromosome. The Fragile X Association of Australia notes that it is the leading cause of inherited intellectual disability, affecting roughly 1 in 4,000 males and about 1 in 6,000 females. Symptoms can vary widely, including learning differences, physical traits, and behavior that challenges the usual expectations of school and family life.
Hayden’s father, Phil, emphasizes that the family’s journey is as much about education as it is about exploration. “Both Hayden and Jake face challenges, but along the way we’ve met generous people—like the ABC team—that have helped us feel seen and supported,” Phil said. The trip is designed to boost awareness and understanding of fragile X across the country, and to remind the public that carriers can exist without obvious symptoms.
A Mission to Break Down Barriers
During their travels, the Eastburys have encountered communities and services that have demonstrated inclusive thinking and practical support for families affected by fragile X. Phil notes that awareness continues to grow, but many people still don’t realize that fragile X is inherited and that some individuals carry the gene without severe manifestations. He explains, “Fragile X is inherited through the X chromosome, so my boys inherited it from my wife’s side.”
The family hope is that their tour will spark conversations about early screening, education supports, and mental health resources for people with fragile X and related disorders. In Hayden’s world, the ABC is not just a broadcaster; it’s a symbol of national storytelling and a trusted platform to share personal experiences that educate and empower communities.
A Day in the Life on the Road
Hayden’s love for news and current affairs began with a favorite presenter. “Lisa Millar is his favourite,” the family shared, a nod to the way personalities can inspire young fans to dream bigger. Hayden often talks about catching up with his television heroes when possible, and his admiration for the ABC’s regional programming is a constant reminder of why this tour matters.
The journey is planned around Hayden’s education as well; the family intends to pause the road trip when Hayden returns to Newcastle to complete year 12. If academic commitments require it, the tour will resume after graduation. In the back-up plan, Hayden’s family acknowledges another lifelong passion: a love for garbage trucks. “If he could get a job with something garbage-related, that would suit Hayden,” Phil said, highlighting the importance of recognizing individual strengths and possibilities beyond traditional career paths.
Looking Ahead
As the Eastbury family continues their cross-country expedition, the overarching aim remains clear: to promote awareness of fragile X and to celebrate the resilience of families living with this condition. Their story is a reminder that journeys—whether for education, advocacy, or personal dreams—can illuminate the path for others facing similar challenges and demonstrate how communities can come together to support every member’s potential.
