Blake Picton and Naomi Poscoliero may go to different high schools but the year 12 students share a similar passion for community service.
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Last week NSW Governor David Hurley presented Blake and Naomi with a John Lincoln Youth Community Service Award for outstanding service or engagement with their local community, or to Australia in general.
Only 25 students across the state received a similar nod from the Order of Australia Association (NSW) Branch.
In his citation, Keira High School principal David Robson said Blake had enriched the lives of many others through his leadership of the Disabled Surfers Association (DSA) South Coast Branch over the last eight years.
This year Blake was recognised nationally when he gained the National Level Three Training Award for his leadership, empathy and expertise.
He has also become a strong advocate for the Disabled Surfers movement within local schools, to increase the size of the pool of volunteers and ensure its future success.
St Mary Star of the Sea College student Naomi has also been actively engaged in many community activities, which have wide ranging and positive effects on the environment and on disadvantaged children and adults.
The president of the college’s Conservation Club organises many activities and events to educate her peers and the community about alternatives to current practices including fuels, waste, recycling and re-purposing of materials.
Naomi has also coordinated and publicised the school’s Blood Donation days and the Languages Club, where she tutors junior students in Italian and organises fundraising for the Good Samaritan initiatives in Kiribati, raising over $1000.
She also volunteers with SCARF, helping primary aged refugee children with their homework.
Naomi is also a lifesaver at Sandon Point Beach and has attained her Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh Awards.
She was awarded a Platinum Community Service Award in 2017 for her community service initiatives and activities.
Order of Australia Association (NSW) Branch chairman, John Archer OAM, congratulated Blake and Naomi saying they are exemplary community role models.
“They have contributed beyond the norm and their actions have inspired their fellow students. They are beacons of inspiration for others to follow,” he said.
“Blake and Naomi do not seek recognition for their actions, but today we honour them with the highest recognition available to NSW high school students.”