Cardinia Shire’s young people recognised with Good Choice Awards

Cardinia Shire’s annual Good Choice Awards have been celebrated with an awards ceremony held at the Pakenham Hall on Tuesday evening.

The awards recognised young people who have demonstrated resilience, kindness, and strength in their decision making throughout 2022. 

“The last couple of years have really drawn on our reserves of resilience and determination, particularly for young people whose lives have been turned upside down. They may have had to endure school disruptions, social isolation, uncertainty around family situations, mental health and employment issues,” said Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Jeff Springfield.

“During the pandemic, when the going got tough, it may have been easier to bury our heads in the sand. These awards celebrate young people who met the challenge head on.

“Congratulations to all the nominees. Often, it’s your leadership that has shown older members of our community how it’s done. We’re inspired by your ability to make the sometimes hard and uncomfortable choices to reach your goals and aspirations. You do Cardinia Shire proud.”

The annual Good Choice Awards recognise and celebrate the good choices our young people make such as: 

  • Prioritising study
  • Applying for a job  
  • Making informed choices about their health and safety 
  • Accessing support networks even when it’s difficult 
  • Prioritising themselves, life goals and aspirations  
  • Choosing to spend time with good people 
  •  Engaging in school/returning to study with confidence

The Good Choice Awards were recognised on Tuesday 13 September with Councillors highlighting a nomination from each ward. All young people nominated received a certificate and handshake from Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Jeff Springfield to acknowledge their 2022 Good Choice Award.

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