Page 5339 - Week 13 - Tuesday, 15 November 2011
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Order of Australia Association—ACT student citizenship awards
MR COE (Ginninderra) (5.53): I rise to speak about the continued good work of the Order of Australia Association ACT branch. On 3 November 2011 the association hosted the third ACT student awards for citizenship and community service. I have been privileged to be able to attend each of these ceremonies.
After being welcomed by Dr Ray Newcombe OAM, Len Goodman AO and Duncan and Dylan Smith, guests heard from General Peter Gration AC OBE, who spoke about active citizenship and the Anzac tradition. Soon after the general’s speech, guests were introduced to the exceptional Canberra students who have achieved a great deal and have given exceptional service to our community, all at such a young age.
I would like to acknowledge the award winners and briefly describe their contribution to our community. Unfortunately, my few words cannot do justice to their exceptional commitment. The individual awardees are as follows: Gemma Armarego is a year 11 student who, amongst other achievements, has raised funds for mental illness and is a leader of her school at St Clare’s College; Natalia Nuutinen is involved in a youth group, has done volunteer work in Papua New Guinea and helps primary school students with reading; Jeeven Nadanakumar set up a green youth forum at Marist College, is involved with public speaking, is a leader at school and is involved in the United Nations Youth Association; Rachel Crampton Smith received a certificate of commendation in recognition of her community service in umpiring, photography of children and other demonstrations of leadership.
The group award was presented to Giralang primary school in recognition of their understanding, appreciation and demonstration of Indigenous culture, their commitment to preserving the legacy of the Rats of Tobruk which saw them receive a 2011 Anzac Day schools award, their commitment to the National Arboretum, and other achievements.
In addition to a number of students at the presentation, Principal Trish Keller OAM and Deputy Principal Andrew Macleod were present. Very recently I had the privilege of visiting Giralang primary school to witness the spirit of the school which the Order of Australia Association recognised. The motto of the school, “caring, cooperation, courtesy”, was very much on display and could be seen in the commitment of the students to learning, the camaraderie of the staff, the parent involvement, the pride in appearance, the commitment to their community and the leadership that each member of the staff provides.
The atmosphere of the school is truly supportive and conducive to learning, and I commend the staff, students, parents and friends of the school that have made the school into the asset that it is.
Finally, I would like to commend the officer bearers of the ACT branch of the Order of Australia Association. They are General Peter Gration, patron—
MR SPEAKER: Sorry, Mr Coe. The time for debate has expired.
Question resolved in the affirmative.
The Assembly adjourned at 5.55 pm.
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