SYDNEY -- As many as 100 communities across Australia have registered for events to mark the first anniversary of the disappearance of NSW toddler William Tyrrell.
His family, along with thousands of others, are expected to convene at the Kendall Showground near Port Macquarie on Saturday, where they will thank supporters for their efforts in the search for their son, whose smiling face and Spiderman costume have become an icon across the nation.
“William’s family wants to show their deep and sincere gratitude to everyone who helped in the search for William and acknowledge the tremendous love and community spirit shown for their little boy and his family,” said Hetty Johnston, spokesperson for the Where’s William Campaign.
Johnston said the events will be a reminder to everyone that William is still missing, and that the search must continue until the toddler is found and brought home.
A spokesperson for Where's William Week told The Huffington Post Australia that one hundred events have been registered across Australia and one in Canada.
Earlier this week police said they wanted to speak to the owners of two cars - a grey sedan and white station wagon - seen parked outside William's grandmother's house on the day he disappeared.
People have rallied in support of William and his family on social media with messages of support.
While donations for the campaign will be accepted, Where's William Week is not designed as a fundraising event but rather to promote child safety and reach out to more people who may have some information about William's whereabouts.
“The more support we have across the community, the more people we can reach and the greater the chance we have of encouraging somebody to come forward with what we hope will be that vital piece of information that can help Police find William and bring him home to us where he belongs,” said William’s father in the press statement.
Saturday's commemoration comes after white goods repairman Bill Spedding, who was named as a person of interest in the case, released a video denying any involvement in William's disappearance.
If you have seen William or have any information relating to his disappearance, please contact Crime Stoppers now on 1800 333 000 or visit the Crime Stoppers online reporting page nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.