Speeches
Monday, 05 June 2023
Lions Children of Courage Awards
I warmly welcome you all to Government House for the presentation of the Children of Courage awards.
I especially welcome guests who have travelled from outside the city to be with us.
I am very pleased to be an honorary member of the City of Adelaide Lions Club and, in this capacity, lend my support as Governor to its many worthwhile initiatives.
As Governor it is my privilege to engage with South Australian adults and young people with disability, through these awards as well as other activities.
Last year I volunteered in the café at Novita Services, with young people in the ‘Transition to Work’ program.
It was wonderful to see the excitement of participants – whether they were making coffee, preparing meals, or just cleaning up.
This kind of work is where I get to see people literally jumping for joy, which is very special.
Through my engagement with disability support agencies, I’ve also witnessed some of the wonderful work which takes place in our community to support people with disability, led by dedicated and passionate staff.
For more than 30 years, the Lions Children of Courage awards have given recognition to young people with disability.
Our nominees this evening have a very strong spirit, showing great bravery and positivity.
I recognise the courage they show for themselves, as well as the inspiration they offer to others.
It is a privilege to host our award winners and to meet their families and supporters.
I thank the organisations and schools who nominated their students and clients for a Children of Courage award, for identifying these children as deserving candidates and developing thoughtful nominations for them.
I also thank the carers, medical and therapy staff and teachers who have joined us.
Thank you to the Lions Club of Adelaide for running these awards, and for your many other current activities, such as making support items for people in hospital, developing active citizenship activities for primary schools, and various fundraising activities for charity.
To all of our children here this evening, congratulations! I am very proud of you.