Macedon Ranges Youth Award winners 2023

Last updated on 17 August 2023

Council’s annual Youth Awards were held at Kyneton Town Hall last Thursday evening, with a crowd of over 100 people gathering to celebrate the outstanding achievements of young people in the shire. 

This year, more than 30 young people – groups and individuals – were nominated across six award categories, with the judging panel consisting of young people. 

Council’s Director Community, Maria Weiss, said that the quality of nominations this year was very high.

“We are very fortunate to have so many motivated and talented young people in our shire,” she said. “It’s so important we recognise their achievements through awards like these, to encourage them to continue on their incredible journeys.”

“Well done to all of this year’s nominees and winners, and thank you to those who took the time to nominate a young person excelling in our shire.”

The crowd was also entertained on the night by local up-and-coming musical acts Rhiannon Winchester and The Mods.

Congratulations to the following winners:

Young people who show real character and perseverance, especially in the face of adversity.

Winner: Toby Birkett

Toby has been an active member of the Braemar Cadet unit for many years and is now in a position of leadership. They have demonstrated their ability to work and fight for what they are passionate about within a large 35-plus person unit showing skills in direction, management, and communication. All while suffering a significant leg injury and enduring more than 10 months on crutches, overcoming extreme challenges and disruptions in their school and personal life.

Young people excelling in a mentorship program, workplace or business.

Winners: Casey Carew and Akira Zutelia

Casey and Akira began working with Gisborne Family Dental without any previous experience in the industry and have both proven themselves very quickly. They have fantastic work attitudes, are fast learners, and have never held back in developing their knowledge and skills. From day one they have fit into the family-orientated workplace and naturally know the importance of teamwork.

Young people excelling in a mentorship program, workplace or business.

Winner: Alexander O'Hanlon

Alexander is a member of the House of Awesome LGBTIQA+ social support group, the Sunbury Glitter Group, the Kyneton High Pride Crew, and was a participant in the WayOut Pride Camp, and in other WayOut events in the community such as Queers on the Catwalk and IDAHOBIT celebrations.

As a community connector with LGBTIQA+ young people in the region, he has helped raise awareness about LGBTIQA+ experiences and programs available for young people. He is great at making people feel included and helping to promote safe, supportive and affirming spaces for LGBTIQA+ young people.

Young people pursuing their passion for creativity through the arts.

Winner: Charlie Jackman

In 2019, Charlie’s small business called Charlie by Art was born. Working with his mum, Charlie turns his art into greeting cards to sell on his website. Through the business, Charlie has learnt skills including business management, customer service and web skills. He sells his cards at markets and The Corner Café in Gisborne which helps him to build social skills, connection and confidence.

In 2019, Charlie was commissioned to produce artwork for Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews, creating an artwork called "Melbourne" for his Christmas card. In 2020, he was commissioned by the Victorian Minister for Creative Industries to create an artwork called "A Fresh Start", reflecting on the Covid pandemic.

Young people kicking recreational and physical activity goals.

Winner: Lachlan Goodes

Lachie is the youngest member of Macedon Ranges Cycling Club and in March this year, he completed his longest ride so far of 75km on the Great Victorian Rail Trail. He participated in the 2022 Tour de Kids, riding 250kms in 30 days and raising funds for the Starlight Foundation.

Lachie also completed the 60km in the Great Ocean Otway Classic in April 2022 (the youngest child to participate) and 108km from Tallarook-Bonnie Doon (12 years old) in July 2022. His biggest achievement so far has been riding 21.52km up Mt Buffalo on his gravel bike; an elevation of 1074m and a time of time 2hrs 6mins, with snow during the last 10km. 

Young people who shine light on important issues or social causes and raises awareness in the community.

Winner: Cameron Palmer

As the inaugural First Nations school captain of Gisborne Secondary College, Cameron has worked tirelessly to raise the profile of First Nations students and raise awareness of First Nations culture and history, particularly within the Macedon Ranges. Cameron has been involved in various initiatives including organising events for Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week.

After discovering his First Nations heritage as a teenager, he has not only embraced this connection, but also looked to how he could positively interact with the many opportunities and challenges it has presented. Cameron has inspired his family to become more aware of things from a First Nations viewpoint and is a great role model for his younger siblings.