Bailee White from Nhill College is one of two students representing Lions clubs from the West of Victoria to move up to the District Final of Lions Youth of the Year. Bailee is joined by Emily Eastman from Casterton Secondary College. Jaylen Stephens from Ararat Marian College also contested the event.

The final was organised by Zones West Co-ordinator Lion Butch Witmitz from Kaniva, hosted by the Lions Club of Horsham and compered by Zone Chairperson Lion Shirley Blackwood.

Lions Youth of the Year is an exceptional program that has been supporting young Australians for 60 years this year. Although Youth of the Year is a national project, it is clubbased and, as such, is totally reliant on the input and support of Lions Clubs and our schools. It is designed to encourage and give students the skills and experiences that will enhance their confidence in employment and public situations.

Bailee White said, “This year, I was lucky enough to participate in Lions Youth of the Year. The process involved an interview which they ask you questions about your life and what you contribute to the community, and an impromptu speech on two different questions and speech which you have prepared on a subject of your choice. I really enjoyed the experience and I am honoured to represent Nhill at the next level. I would like to thank the Lions Club for this opportunity, and if anyone else was thinking about giving it a go next year, I highly recommend it. It is a great experience.”

Bailee and Emily will now progress to the District Final on 23rd March at Camperdown, where six students will compete for a place in the Victorian State Final in April.

The Lions Club of Nhill are proud of our Youth of the Year and wish Bailee all the best for the next stage. Well done! 

This article appeared in the Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times, 6 March 2024.