Youth Awards open

NOMINATIONS for the City of Ballarat 2019 Youth Awards are now open, kicked off by ambassadors Sam Griffin, owner of Griffin Burger and Triple J presenter Bridget Hustwaite.

Mr Griffin and Ms Hustwaite encouraged the community to celebrate and nominate Ballarat’s outstanding youth.

“I am stoked to be an ambassador for this years’ awards,” Mr Griffin said. “Just getting nominated all those years ago was such a thrill for me.

“I didn’t finish high school or get a degree, so getting nominated was a recognition and acceptance that what I was doing was ok.”

Deputy Mayor Cr Jim Rinaldi said Ms Hustwaite and Mr Griffin are positive, influential role models because of their courage, passion and determination to achieve great things.

Cr Rinaldi officially opened the Award nominations, praising the efforts of the Youth Council volunteers who contribute their time planning and delivering the program.

“The determination and energy these young people put into organising the Awards is inspiring,” he said.

The Youth Awards highlight and commend young achievers, aged 12 to 25, who contribute to the city through sporting clubs, volunteering, playing music, developing artwork, student leadership initiatives, youth groups, religious groups and environmental activities.

Nominations online at youthawards.ballarat.com.au close on Friday, 23 August at 5pm.