Ratcliff recognised as role model in state awards

Zane Ratcliff was announced as a finalist in the Seven News Young Achiever Awards.

ROLE MODEL: Zane Ratcliff is a finalist for the Kennelly Constructions Aboriginal Achievement Award. Picture: Michael Nolan

FROM voluntarily teaching traditional dance to performing at the Commonwealth Games, Zane Ratcliff has done a lot to make his home town proud.

And the former Gayndah local has done it once again, being announced as a finalist in the Seven News Young Achiever Awards.

Mr Ratcliff, who was Burnett State College's first indigenous school captain in 54 years, is up for the Kennelly Constructions Aboriginal Achievement Award.

He was chuffed to hear the news.

"It was amazing,” he said.

"There is no way I thought I would get this far.”

Mr Ratcliff was nominated for the award by Irene Law, Katherine Ratcliff and Alexis Laidler.

The finalists will be presented and winners announced at a presentation dinner to be held in Brisbane on May 3.

Each category winner receives $2000 from Auswide Bank, plus a trophy.

The Kennelly Constructions Aboriginal Achievement Award celebrates the commitment of young indigenous people who are strong role models.

"It's important to have role models who come from the same background as you because you can connect with them more and you share the same values,” Mr Ratcliff said.

"In the way of Indigenous role models, my mum has been a really strong role model for me, and I would also just say my family.”

And the kind of role model Mr Ratcliff sets out to be?

"I just try to encourage people to be friendly and include everyone,” he said.

"It's also important to get involved and always have a go.”

Mrs Ratcliff said the family was proud of all her son's achievements, and they would travel down to attend the presentation night in May.