Cessnock High School student recognised for community service

The school captain travelled to Government House in Sydney, late last month, to receive a John Lincoln Youth Community Service Award.

The award, presented to the Year 12 student by Governor of NSW His Excellency General, The Honourable David Hurley, recognises outstanding service or engagement with the local community.

Kyle said that the the recognition and accompanying trophy and certificate was one of the highlights of his year.

“I am very proud to receive the award,” he said. “It’s a huge honour.”

Kyle added that he wanted to ensure his role as a school leader was not just name only.

“As school captain I have been given the opportunity to do a lot of community service and I want to make the most of it.” 

Kyle, who identifies as indigenous, was nominated by principal Christopher Bice for promoting pathways, particularly in STEM subjects for fellow indigenous students as well as being an active advocate for such initiatives as White Ribbon Day and Cessnock High School’s Interact club.

Kyle, who is also a Cadet Under Officer in the Air Force Cadets, said that while he may have a lot on his plate with exams this year, he always found time to give back.

“I just like seeing people happy that something is happening,” he said.

NSW Order of Australia Association branch chairman John Archer said Kyle was an exemplary role model.

“Kyle has contributed beyond the norm and his actions have inspired his fellow students. Kyle is a beacon of inspiration for others to follow,” Mr Archer said.

“We are fortunate to have such role models active within our communities.”

With Kyle now preparing to sit his Higher School Certificate, he said after the exams, he was interested in parlaying his Air Cadets experience into a career.

“Right now I’m keeping my options open, but I am interested in going to Newcastle University for the new aerospace engineering degree,” he said. “Or I might jump ship completely and join the Air Force.”