From Newcastle to the Nation: A Dream Underway
At 17, Hayden Eastbury has mapped a path across Australia that blends curiosity, family love, and a mission to raise awareness about fragile X syndrome. Alongside his brother Jake and their parents, Hayden set off from Newcastle in mid-2024 on a national tour to visit every ABC bureau in the country. The goal is simple but powerful: to showcase the diverse faces of the syndrome and to spark conversations about inclusion in education and the workplace.
Two Passions, One Extraordinary Journey
Hayden’s world revolves around two clear loves: garbage trucks and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. The tour has become a living classroom, where every stop offers a chance to learn—about journalism, community support, and how media can amplify the voices of people living with fragile X. “I’ve been travelling around Australia with my family, and have been meeting ABC news presenters,” Hayden says, a note of pride in his voice. The project blends his fascination with current events and his aspiration to work in broadcasting one day.
Understanding Fragile X Through a Family Lens
Fragile X syndrome is a genetic condition caused by a mutation on the X chromosome, and it is the leading cause of inherited intellectual disability. As the Fragile X Association of Australia notes, the condition affects about 1 in 4,000 males and around 1 in 6,000 females. Hayden and his brother Jake both live with fragile X, and their parents describe the journey as a mix of challenges and remarkable moments of connection. The family hopes the national tour will boost awareness, reduce stigma, and highlight the everyday realities that families face.
Learning Through Experience
Phil Eastbury, Hayden’s father, emphasizes the broader impact of openly sharing their story. “Both Hayden and his brother, Jake, live with a lot of challenges but as we’ve explored this great country, we’ve encountered so many people who have been so supportive of us, like the ABC,” he explains. The trip has underscored that awareness does not always translate into understanding, but it does build opportunities for dialogue and education in communities far from major cities.
Awareness, Carrier Status, and Early Signs
Another key message from the tour concerns carrier status and early detection. Phil notes that even as awareness grows, many people remain unaware they could be carriers of fragile X. “Fragile X is inherited through the X chromosome, so my boys inherited it from my wife’s side,” he says. He adds that symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions, such as dyslexia or early-onset menopause in women, while some men may exhibit tremor-like symptoms resembling Parkinson’s. The crucial takeaway is that fragile X can be identified and managed with early intervention and targeted support.
Dreams, Highlights, and the Road Ahead
Hayden’s passion for news traces back to his favourite ABC presenter, with Lisa Millar topping the young listener’s list. “Hayden loves to listen to the banter,” says Phil, who hopes the family will one day meet his idol. For now, the road has a practical pause: Hayden will return to Newcastle to complete year 12 before resuming the journey. If school schedules demand a halt, the family plans to keep the mission on track. And if a career in broadcasting proves elusive, Hayden remains open to a “garbage-related” role that aligns with his lifelong interests.
A Message of Hope for Communities Across Australia
What makes Hayden’s national tour so meaningful is its emphasis on inclusion and education. Each ABC bureau visit offers an opportunity to connect with local families, educators, and viewers who might see their own experiences reflected in Hayden’s story. The project is not just about one teenager’s dream; it’s about creating pathways for people with fragile X to pursue their passions and contribute to their communities.
Conclusion: A Youthful Voice with a National Reach
Hayden Eastbury’s journey embodies resilience, curiosity, and a belief that media platforms can broaden understanding of fragile X syndrome. As the family continues to travel toward the final ABC offices, the message remains clear: awareness matters, inclusion matters, and every story—no matter how personal—can illuminate a broader national conversation.
