Pride of Australia nominees, including Luke Shambrook, make us proud

THEY are the local legends whose names rarely hit the spotlight, but today they will be honoured as Victoria’s heroes.

Luke Shambrook, 11, who has autism, was miraculously found alive after five days lost in the forest. He has been nominated for a Pride of Australia Child of Courage Award by Victoria Police, specifically Sgt Greg Paul. Luke is pictured with mother Rachel. Picture: Mark Stewart

THEY are the local legends whose names rarely hit the spotlight, but today they will be honoured as Victoria’s heroes.

Thirty of the most courageous and selfless people in our community will be celebrated at the Pride of Australia ceremony.

Among them will be Luke Shambrook, the little boy with autism whose survival through five days in rugged bushland captured global attention.

Luke Shambrook. Picture: Mark Stewart

Luke’s mum, Rachel, said the fact her son, now 12, was nominated for the Child of Courage award proved to her that the community embraced the strength of all people, no matter if they had a disability.

“Grateful is one word, enthusiastic is another to describe how I feel about this opportunity to recognise people with differences,” Mrs Shambrook said.

Since Luke’s miraculous survival in the wilderness near Eildon over Easter, the Shambrooks have been inundated with calls.

“Effectively, Luke has increased people’s awareness of disability and made it so those with additional needs are viewed through different eyes,” she said.

“The awareness has been huge for autism and for drawing attention to individuals with differences.”

Ten medals will be awarded to winners in categories including Heroism, Inspiration and Outstanding Bravery.

The People’s Choice winner will also be announced at a ceremony at Federation Square.

@prideofoz