Fae Ballingall

Hayden McLean is a creative and inspiring individual in our community. He is a painter, explorer, performance artist, gardener, traveller and teacher. He is also autistic. Whilst Hayden’s autism gives him many unique talents, it has also been a barrier to opportunities that so many of us take for granted.

For Hayden’s family, friends and those who now know his story, the strength and resilience he has shown in the face of ignorance and prejudice has been truly inspiring. For those who don’t, you can find out more here.

Hayden’s story galvanised people and businesses across Melbourne into action to help build a new life for him. This included over 200 volunteers working together over several weeks to create a new home and garden for him. This was the beginning of a new journey for Hayden.

Hayden now lives independently with support in a small cottage on a fabulous park-like block of land in Melbourne’s north-east. This is a place of peace where he can be himself. Slowly Hayden is becoming a part of his community after a period of not being understood. He is a peaceful “creative” who wants to produce art for the pleasure of others.

The next step is to support Hayden live the life he desires and deserves – one of freedom, self-sufficiency, purpose and connection. This is where you can help!

Funds raised will go towards materials, a cord knitting machine and artist support.

Hayden is well known for his amazing drawings of his machine designs. Many of his machines perform a cord making function. Hayden is an accomplished cord maker. He creates his own knitting nancies in a variety of sizes from all sorts of recycled materials which he then utilises to make the cord. Hayden calls this cord ‘shoelaces’. He makes fantastic artisan shoelaces for those in his life! When knitting he becomes a machine and he accomplishes a result very quickly!


He is also a talented 'Pom-pomier'. Pom poms fill his house and yard with colour and fun.


His designs often include one of Hayden’s other great loves – grandmas. And who wouldn't agree that grannies rock! Of late Hayden has been talking with his friends about making a life sized 3D sculpture of one of his designs known as 'Permanent Knitting Grandma Irene'. Hayden is interested in collaborating with another artist on this project. His request has facilitated discussions with a local community artist who has given advice on the logistics of this project. The very next challenge for those close to Hayden is to make this happen.

To help Hayden bring this idea to life we need to reach our target goal of $3000. You can also show your support by sharing this project with friends, family, colleagues and those who know that pom poms and grandmas are good for the soul!

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