Young trailblazers in the spotlight

NOMINATIONS are now open for this year’s City of Ballarat Youth Awards.

With names being accepted until Sunday, 18 June, mayor Cr Des Hudson said it’s important to acknowledge the achievements of the region’s under 25s.

“Our young people are our future and there are so many of our young people doing some amazing things right across our community,” he said.

“We’re really encouraging members of our community to nominate young people where they see young people out doing some really amazing work.”

People aged between 12 and 25 years old are eligible for nomination in 12 categories.

Awards vary from inclusive, creative, recreational, and volunteer acknowledgements, with two awards available for adult volunteers and workers.

All nominations will be considered for the two major categories, with one for people aged between 12 and 17 years old, and the other for 18 to 25 year olds.

Rohan McMaster took home the Leadership in Sport and Recreation Award last year, which he attributes to his role as the sole Victorian goal umpire in last year’s National Australian Football Championships.

He’s since joined the organising team for the 2023 Youth Awards and encouraged people to shine a light on young people doing great things in the City of Ballarat.

“It was surreal to win,” he said. “I’d say anyone who’s thinking about nominating someone, just do it.

“I’ve been umpiring for approximately three years. I’ve always loved it since I was three. I was born with a hip disease so couldn’t really play and it was the next best thing.”

Nominations can be made via the City of Ballarat website.