Pride of Australia
Lauren Fraser is the very definition of a jack of all trades. At 15, the Pelican Waters resident is a Yr 10 student at Meridan State College, where she excels in her academic endeavours. But that’s only part of the story as the charismatic teenager also juggles an extraordinary extracurricular schedule that is as selfless as it is satisfying.
Using the knowledge gleaned from having “been there and done that”, Lauren tutors younger pupils at the college, mainly in maths, and is delighted when her input and attention help sharpen their focus and grades. She also mentors other students, is heavily involved in the dance troupe and choir and, following on from her role as cultural leader at the junior school, is now a community leader for middle school.
A student since the school opened in 2006, and part of the highest grade, Lauren is also on the leadership taskforce that is “creating and developing a leadership plan that will progress right through until hopefully after we’ve graduated”. But she doesn’t think she’s anything special. “It’s just part of my personality,” she says. “I’ve always been a very social person and very into being around others.”
Lauren’s parents are also a crucial support. “As I’ve grown up they have encouraged a positive way of being around people, and it’s something that I’ve always wanted to do. I love to give to people and then to see them get good results or improve or just enjoy themselves is what I get back out of them.” With an eye on life past her graduation, Lauren — who reveals the thought of auditioning for So You Think You Can Dance? has crossed her mind — aims for a career as a professional dancer.
Then, once the strain on her body becomes too great, she hopes to move into events management, and also to extend her philanthropic activities. “I’d love to be able to keep doing what I’m doing and keep progressing,” she says. With her commitment and focus, we don’t doubt that will happen. For now though, Lauren is delighted to have been nominated in the Young Leader category of the 2010 Pride of Australia Medal.
An initiative of News Limited, which owns the weekender, these awards aim to unearth and celebrate unsung Australian heroes across categories including the new Courage Medal, which recognises those who have overcome adversity. Other fields are: Outstanding Bravery Medal, Heroism Medal, Community Spirit Medal, Child of Courage Medal, Care and Compassion Medal, Inspiration Medal, Serving Australia Medal, Fair Go Medal and Environmental Medal.
Nominations for the awards close on July 6 at 5pm. They can be made at www.couriermail.com.au or through Denise Ryder at ryderd@qnp.newsltd.com.au or 3666 6304. There is also a Pride of Australia Medal page on Facebook.
For more awards information, profiles of past winners and conditions of entry check out www.prideofaustralia.com.au
Story: Lisa Chant, weekender Issue 631, June 17th 2010
Lauren Fraser is the very definition of a jack of all trades. At 15, the Pelican Waters resident is a Yr 10 student at Meridan State College, where she excels in her academic endeavours. But that’s only part of the story as the charismatic teenager also juggles an extraordinary extracurricular schedule that is as selfless as it is satisfying.
Using the knowledge gleaned from having “been there and done that”, Lauren tutors younger pupils at the college, mainly in maths, and is delighted when her input and attention help sharpen their focus and grades. She also mentors other students, is heavily involved in the dance troupe and choir and, following on from her role as cultural leader at the junior school, is now a community leader for middle school.
A student since the school opened in 2006, and part of the highest grade, Lauren is also on the leadership taskforce that is “creating and developing a leadership plan that will progress right through until hopefully after we’ve graduated”. But she doesn’t think she’s anything special. “It’s just part of my personality,” she says. “I’ve always been a very social person and very into being around others.”
Lauren’s parents are also a crucial support. “As I’ve grown up they have encouraged a positive way of being around people, and it’s something that I’ve always wanted to do. I love to give to people and then to see them get good results or improve or just enjoy themselves is what I get back out of them.” With an eye on life past her graduation, Lauren — who reveals the thought of auditioning for So You Think You Can Dance? has crossed her mind — aims for a career as a professional dancer.
Then, once the strain on her body becomes too great, she hopes to move into events management, and also to extend her philanthropic activities. “I’d love to be able to keep doing what I’m doing and keep progressing,” she says. With her commitment and focus, we don’t doubt that will happen. For now though, Lauren is delighted to have been nominated in the Young Leader category of the 2010 Pride of Australia Medal.
An initiative of News Limited, which owns the weekender, these awards aim to unearth and celebrate unsung Australian heroes across categories including the new Courage Medal, which recognises those who have overcome adversity. Other fields are: Outstanding Bravery Medal, Heroism Medal, Community Spirit Medal, Child of Courage Medal, Care and Compassion Medal, Inspiration Medal, Serving Australia Medal, Fair Go Medal and Environmental Medal.
Nominations for the awards close on July 6 at 5pm. They can be made at www.couriermail.com.au or through Denise Ryder at ryderd@qnp.newsltd.com.au or 3666 6304. There is also a Pride of Australia Medal page on Facebook.
For more awards information, profiles of past winners and conditions of entry check out www.prideofaustralia.com.au
Story: Lisa Chant, weekender Issue 631, June 17th 2010
