A BEACHPORT teenager who is passionate about her community and contributes to the lives of others has been named Wattle Range Council’s Kintore Ward Australia Day young citizen of the year.
Zoe Moran, 18, said she was “blown away” when told she would receive the prestigious award, stating the Beachport community had shaped her into the person she is today.
“When I found out that I had not only been nominated, but that my nomination was successful, I was pretty blown away,” she said.
“It is truly an honour to be recognised for my contribution to Beachport community, particularly as I enjoy volunteering and do it solely because of this rather than to receive any recognition.”
Zoe has been a life-long resident of the coastal town and loves that locals support each other and there is always someone around to offer a helping hand when it is needed.
She has been involved with the Beachport Life Saving Club as a junior club captain and an age manager since the club’s establishment around three years ago.
Zoe has also volunteered in the Lions Club’s donut van over the summer period and has been a volunteer with the Beachport VacSwim program.
A couple of years ago her volunteer work with VacSwim became a paid position, however the teenager said her involvement as an instructor still allowed her to benefit the community in a positive way.
Zoe said she was “extremely grateful” the Beachport community had shaped her into the person she is today.
“It is a wonderful feeling to be able to contribute to the lives of others in a similar way, particularly through my role in the Beachport Surf Life Saving Club as an age manager,” she said.
“I was privileged to be able to educate young people about beach safety.
“My involvement in the club allows me to be a role model to others, in the same way that many community members have been role models of mine.
“This includes each of my parents who are involved in many volunteer organisations around the town such as the Lions Club, the surf life saving club and the ambulance first response team.
“Volunteering and immersing myself in the community always brings a smile to my face and I would strongly encourage anyone who is able to volunteer to have a go, find a club or an organisation that coincides with your interests or talents.
“It is very rewarding to be able to help others with the things you are interested in and to meet other people who share your interests along the way.”
Zoe will receive the award at a community breakfast celebration on Saturday at Beachport’s Lagoon Reserve.
