Students at Hillcrest Primary School in Perth will swap their uniforms for superhero costumes on April 1 to support the Hero Hunter Foundation, a charity founded in memory of former student Hunter Madden. Hunter battled acute lymphoblastic leukaemia for five years before passing away in September 2021 at age eight.
The foundation, established by Hunter's mother Kate Bettenay in 2022, provides practical support to families of children with cancer and blood disorders. Services include meal programs, fuel vouchers, hospital parking assistance, home cleaning, and respite days. In the 2024–25 financial year, the foundation delivered over $250,000 in services and in-kind support.
The school's Hero Hunter Day was inspired by student Cormac, who initiated a “chop challenge” to shave his head. Four other students—William, Lila, Jobe, and Cora—will join him in shaving their heads in front of the school community. Cormac will donate his hair to Wigs4Kids, with funds raised going to the foundation.
Principal Liz Ford said Hunter left a lasting impression on the school, known for his friendliness and sense of humour. The school has a “buddy bench” and a tree planted in his memory. The superhero dress-up day has been held annually for four years to honour Hunter's legacy.
