Ulladulla student goes Heywire for kindness

by Malia Barrele /

Adam Clear knows how to turn hardship into happiness. His courage to confront bullies and create a community for young queer people has won him a place in the 2024 ABC Heywire competition for young regional storytellers.

Now in its 26th year, Heywire empowers people aged 16-22 to share stories about their lives in regional or rural Australia, fostering conversations about young Australians shaping their communities.

Adam's courage not only led to a place on the Heywire winners podium but also to the foundation of MUCK up, a Milton Ulladulla Community Kindness initiative.

"Kindness is about connection, bringing people together on common ground, " said Adam in his Heywire piece. Listen to Adam's full story.

There’s nothing queer about being kind. My town is starting to understand that - ABC Heywire

Adam from Ulladulla, NSW, Yuin Country

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Three other young Shoalhaven storytellers were named regional Heywire winners in the past three years. Listen to their unique perspectives below.

2023 - Mia, Nowra

Mum is a single parent, and I’m forever grateful for her sacrifice and support - ABC Heywire

Heywire winner Mia from Nowra, NSW, Yuin Country.

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2022 - Eleanor, Bellawongarah

Climate change is affecting my mountain home, and things will never be the same - ABC Heywire

Eleanor from Bellawongarah, NSW, Dharawal country

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2021 - Lily, Nowra

The wheelchair isn’t who I am, but it’s definitely shaped who I am - ABC Heywire

Lily from Nowra, NSW

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