The Golden Plains Shire 2019 Australia Day Award for Young Citizen of the Year recognises the community involvement, school activities and future goals of an individual aged 25 years or younger as of 26 January 2019.
This year’s nominees are:
Trinity Crawford, Sutherlands Creek — Trinity is an enthusiastic member of the Golden Plains Youth committee and has volunteered her time to a number of projects and programs, including movie nights, the empowerment roadshow and mural.
Luke Getsom, Piggoreet — Luke is a passionate campaigner against bullying and cyberbullying and raised money for Dolly’s Dream charity. The former Mount Clear College student was involved in leadership roles and supported LGBQTI students at the school.
Christian Meyer, Shelford — At 16, Chris last year qualified as a senior firefighter after many years of training, study and assessments. He still happily attends junior meetings and is the first to help where needed, including roadside burns. He has also been an active member of the Golden Plains Youth committee.
Jesse Pearce, Bannockburn — Jesse is a quiet achiever but has taken on the executive role of president of the Golden Plains Hockey Club. He is respected by his older peers and is on the Geelong Hockey Association committee. He is also a junior coach, team manager, umpire and player.
Samantha Watkins, Bannockburn — Samantha is a reliable member of the Golden Plains Youth committee and is recognised as a voice of Bannockburn youth. She also played an important role in organising the Bannockburn skate competition.
John Thompson, Belmont — John is an intern with Melbourne Art Review, providing free art reviews for aspiring artists within his community. His short film has been accepted into the Odyssey Film Festival in Geelong and his photography has been shown in an exhibition.
Mayor Cr Owen Sharkey will announce the Australia Day Awards winners at a special presentation at the Bannockburn Cultural Centre on Tuesday 22 January 2019, prior to the first Council meeting of the year.