The Lions Club of Seymour Goulburn inaugurated the Children of Courage award on Friday, June 28, with Nicholas as its very first recipient in the Seymour Goulburn Region.
Former president Leonie Willis introduced the award to the club after finding that other Lions Clubs in Western Australia has run the award for a number of years.
It was introduced in Western Australia in 1983 by the late past district governor Joe Mason, AOM.
“It was my privilege to present the first of hopefully many Children of Courage awards from the Lions Club of Seymour Goulburn,” Ms Willis said.
“The award consist of a certificate, a medallion and a bear donated by Bunnings in Seymour.
“Our first recipient is a well-deserving young man from St Mary's College, Nicholas Mauro-Sichlau.”
The Children of Courage award recognise the exceptional bravery and resilience of children who face unique challenges in their lives.
Nicholas, who was nominated by his school, is described as an extraordinary young man who looks out for his fellow students.
“Nicholas is kind, generous, no matter how challenging he finds a situation, he applies himself fully with great determination,” said his teachers on his nomination.
“He is a popular member of the college community because of his warm rapport with students and teachers.”
Besides the new award, the club also awards students around the region for many years.
“Our Lions Club present other student awards to schools in our region, at the end of the school year and have done so for a number of years,” Lions Club of Seymour Goulburn’s Regina Young said.
“Our club has always had an interest in supporting children in our community.”
The awards which students can be nominated in four categories.
The Special Needs award is for children with special needs who have shown courage in the face of adversity.
Such children include those who are confined to wheelchairs, who are sight, hearing or speech impaired, or have undergone long periods of medical treatment, surgery or hospitalisation.
The Courageous Act or Deed awards is for children who have acted bravely in an accident or life-threatening situation to assist in preventing further harm to other persons or property.
The Sibling Recognition Award is for siblings who actively participate in the daily care for their parents, brother or sister who has a special need.
Lastly, the Outstanding Sporting Achievements are for children who have overcome great hardship or disadvantage to compete as an individual or team member in their chosen sport.
Each school can nominate one student that fits in each category, and students who are nominated will be presented with an engraved medallion, a certificate and gift donated by Bunnings Seymour.
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