The Krambach resident and his faithful companion Jessie are preparing to tour schools throughout the State next year to raise funds for the Children’s Hospital at Westmead.

Rod will perform his show Frogs And Dogs And Kids to raise money for the hospital and its school.

The show, derived from Rod’s award-winning book of the same name, features rhymes, children’s bush verse, songs and great yarns.

The show has been a success already all over the country, with well-received performances in Brisbane, country New South Wales and the Melbourne, Maryborough and Bendigo-Inglewood areas of Victoria.

Jessie has accompanied Rod to every school, where she gives joy to all the children.

Rod was first inspired to help out the children’s hospital when the late Hannah Blanch of Wingham was a patient there.

Rod made a trip to the hospital to perform for her when she was ill.

He returned for a second show later and he formed associations with children, their families and staff as a result.

All money raised from the upcoming tour will go directly to the Children’s Hospital at Westmead with 30 per cent to the school and 70 per cent to the oncology unit.

A number of schools in the Wingham area plan to host a performance in early 2010.

Rod then hopes to visit schools throughout the Mid North Coast, before hitting the Hunter and Tamworth areas.

“I’m prepared to work very hard and we want as many schools to come forward as possible,” Rod said.

Now at 69, Rod said he hopes to “finish entertaining on a high”.

“It may be our last big production number.”

As well as hoping schools to jump on board to host a performance, Rod is seeking sponsorship to help him cover costs for fuel and accommodation when travelling from school to school.

To sponsor Rod’s efforts, phone him on 6559 1255 or 0413 786 872 or email bonzablu@tpg.com.au

Find out more about Rod on his website www.rod williamsbushpoet.com.au