Kalgoorlie-Boulder 2023 Youth Awards

And your winners are...

The nominees and winners of this year's awards are young people working in the youth space doing extraordinary work in our community. Whether it be for academic achievement, employment excellence, cultural leadership or community contribution. Congratulations to this year's recipients.

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Young Achiever Award

Jayden Zappelli

Jayden's career journey began at the Golf Course as a casual worker at the age of 15. His exceptional work ethic and commitment led to a permanent position on the Ground staff as an Apprentice in Sports Turf Management. Throughout his apprenticeship, Jayden consistently demonstrated high standards of work quality and professionalism. His dedication was recognized when he received the Baileys Award for "Best Block Release Apprentice" at the WA Turf Awards in March 2023. Subsequently, he was chosen to represent WA at the national awards in South Australia, where he recently won this week, the prestigious 2023 Toro Australia Apprentice of the Year award. Jayden's character, integrity, and passion for turf management make him an inspiring figure in the industry. His remarkable achievements reflect the rewards of hard work and dedication, serving as an example for the city's youth.

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Young Community Champion

Callum McLerie

Callum is a highly respected Lieutenant in the Kalgoorlie Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service (KVFRS). He joined the brigade at a young age and has shown dedication and commitment throughout his journey. Callum provides excellent leadership, coordinating maintenance training and demonstrating his skills through real fireground experience. He actively supports the brigade by attending incidents, organising training nights, and participating in community events. Callum's involvement extends beyond the brigade as he mentors and encourages young members in the BMX and gymnastics communities. He is a reliable and compassionate individual, always there to assist and make a positive impact in the lives of others.

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Young Cultural Leader

Callen Tullock

Callen Tullock, a WA Police Cadet and Tackling Indigenous Smoking worker at Bega Garnbirringu Health Services, where he leads awareness campaigns aimed at reducing smoking prevalence among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Callen's empathetic nature, coupled with his dedication and perseverance, made him a role model to his peers and inspired many young people to serve their community. Despite family responsibilities, Callen's energy and leadership style is characterized by his collaborative, innovative, and inclusive approach making him an outstanding role model. He consistently strives to create a supportive and positive working environment that empowers individuals to participate in decision-making processes, utilize their strengths, and contribute to the community's well-being by advocating and creating a supportive environment towards helping others.

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Young Worker or Volunteer of the Year

Megan Barlow

Megan has dedicated nearly a decade of service as a residential care youth worker at The Salvation Army youth accommodation service. Starting as a night support worker while raising her own family, Megan has grown into a role as a case manager where her skills have flourished. With great care and compassion, Megan supports young people facing homelessness and multiple challenges. She excels at building rapport with them, helping them recognize their strengths and the positive contributions they can make to the community. Megan values and celebrates even the small achievements, encouraging positive outcomes through the Journey to Independence Model of Care. Her exemplary behaviour in the workplace serves as a role model for other staff, inspiring them to strive for similar excellence in their work with young people.

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Youth Organisation of the Year

Stage Left Theatre Troupe

Stage Left Theatre Troupe in Kalgoorlie-Boulder has defied the challenges of COVID and delivered exceptional live theatre productions in 2022 and 2023. With a strong focus on youth, they provide a safe and active space for young people to engage in the arts and displays extraordinary dedication to keeping the arts alive in the Goldfields. By pushing artistic boundaries and addressing important issues, such as mental health, they challenge audiences and foster community involvement. Their production of Heathers the Musical, directed by a 17-year-old, exemplified their commitment to showcasing the experiences of teenagers and promoting mental health awareness. The troupe's members, who balance work and studies, exhibit immense passion and creativity. Stage Left creates opportunities for youth to design and produce their own works, fostering a sense of unity and inspiring future generations. As an inclusive community group, Stage Left Theatre Troupe deserves recognition for their ongoing commitment to youth and the development of the arts in Kalgoorlie-Boulder. 

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Young Tradesperson or Apprentice of the Year

Daniel Gent

Daniel Gent is an exceptional apprentice at Emyjor Services, specializing in Plumbing and Gas fitting. With a positive attitude and strong work ethic, he quickly adapts to new situations and excels in a team environment. Daniel's outstanding communication skills and eagerness to learn have earned him various qualifications in High Risk, forklift operation, and more. He played a pivotal role in completing a significant project, earning the trust of fellow tradespeople. Daniel's dedication and commitment make him a deserving nominee for the 2023 CKB Youth Awards in the Young Tradesperson or Apprentice of the Year category. 

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Past Youth Award Winners