Bert Van Manen (Forde, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to congratulate Kaleb Bierge, a year 9 student from Beenleigh State High School, who has become the first Australian student to receive the ASDAN Bronze Award. ASDAN is a charitable social enterprise whose mission is to create the opportunity for learners to achieve personal and social development through a structured program of awards and qualifications. This enhances their self-esteem, their aspirations and their potential to contribute to their community. It encourages the growth of their creativity, innovation, employability, self-confidence and self-worth and is designed to inspire future citizens for the 21st century.

In order for Kaleb, who is 14, to win this award, he was required to complete 60 hours of work by giving up his morning tea and lunch breaks at school and working on weekends and over his school holidays. His chosen challenges included visiting Old Beenleigh Town and reporting back, planning and preparing a healthy snack suitable for lunch, taking part in a gardening project, carrying out basic vehicle maintenance and producing an illustrated study of the life and work of an expressive artist. Kaleb has been made an ASDAN ambassador for Beenleigh State High School in recognition of his hard work and commitment. My congratulations go to Kaleb and I am sure he will be an inspiration to other students. (Time expired)