Willingness to give new things a go is the secret to success
From school captain to Young Citizen of the Year, Aiden Payet explains how his teachers helped him claim the title.
Whitsunday
Don't miss out on the headlines from Whitsunday. Followed categories will be added to My News.
When opportunities are thrown Aiden Payet’s way, he doesn’t shy away from them.
He puts his hand up to give them a try and has ended up playing a role in a multitude of groups and activities, all while still in school.
His go-getter attitude has helped Aiden become this year’s Young Citizen of the Year for Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Proserpine and surrounds.
Aiden said credit must go to the team at Proserpine State High School for opening so many doors for him.
“I think it was the opportunities they gave us,” he said.
“Teachers said, ‘give this a shot’.”
More stories:
SES couple side-by-side in emergencies and on awards podium
GALLERY: Aussie Day festivities draw crowds in Whitsundays
How to activate your free Courier Mail subscription
By taking that advice and giving things a shot, Aiden ended up serving on the school’s social-cultural committee, was elected as school captain, participated in school forums and represented Proserpine High at public speaking events.
The list does not stop there, he also organised the school chess club and contributed to the school magazine and newsletter.
He was accepted to participate in the UQ Young Scholars program and is a talented piano player who has donated his time to playing for St Paul’s Anglican Church and at Pinnacle Playhouse events.
The Cannonvale teen said he most enjoyed being part of the school’s leadership team and playing a role in various events.
“It gives you opportunities to meet people and support people,” he said.
“It felt good to know that I was at least helping someone.”
Having finished his high school years at the end of 2020, Aiden is now preparing to move south to Brisbane to study engineering at QUT.
Aiden was recognised at an Australia Day Awards Ceremony alongside other hardworking residents of Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Proserpine and surrounds.
Here’s a rundown of all the award winners:
– Citizen of the Year: Mark and Sue Connors
– Young Citizen of the Year: Aiden Payet
– Senior Citizen of the Year: Colleen Byrnes
– Senior Sportsperson Award: Christopher Murphy
– Junior Sportsperson Award: Kasey Hogan
– Sports Administrator Award: Craig and Hanny Spence
– Senior Cultural Award: Whitsundays Arts Festival
– Junior Cultural Award: Crystal Glisson
– Community Event of the Year: Cyclone Ada Memorial
– Wally Hinschen Volunteer of the Year Award: Ron Petterson
For a list of all the winners from around the Whitsundays, click here.
Mapped: Tropical cyclone likely within 24 hours
A tropical cyclone is likely to form off the Queensland coast by tomorrow morning, intensifying into a category two system. SEE THE TRACK MAP
Why cattle killer shot two pregnant cows
A father of four splitting his time between the mines and his own farm faced court for shooting and killing two cattle. See what tipped him over the edge.