One student from each of the two primary schools — Jerilderie Public School and St Joseph’s Primary School — is selected by their school on merit for their contributions.
This year’s recipients are Jerilderie Public School student Dan Eldridge and St Joseph’s Primary School student Lachlan Wells.
Jerilderie Public School recognises Dan Eldridge as a student who shows the true qualities of a ‘Little Aussie’.
Staff describe him as ‘‘an enthusiastic and capable student’’.
‘‘He has a ready smile, and is always happy to offer a helping hand or have a chat,’’ Dan’s citation read.
‘‘He is considerate of his peers and the younger students.
‘‘The ultimate all-round student, Dan will apply himself to any given task to the best of his considerable abilities.
‘‘He has represented the school in a wide variety of activities, including debating, football, cricket, swimming, public speaking, drama and music.
‘‘Dan is very community minded, and is an active member of the Jerilderie Football and Cricket Clubs.
‘‘At school he helps to maintain the community garden and feed the chooks on a regular basis.’’
Dan was a school captain in 2019, and was said to be an ‘‘excellent role model’’.
‘‘He upheld the duties of a school leader with pride,’’ his citation read.
St Joseph’s Primary School staff say Lachlan a fantastic role model for all students ‘‘with his kindness and thoughtfulness’’.
‘‘He is always considerate of his peers, and is a great friend and supporter of the younger students of the school,’’ his citation read.
‘‘In the classroom, Lachlan applies himself diligently to his learning, and is a pleasure to teach.
‘‘He is an enthusiastic young sportsman, and shows great determination and persistence in his sporting endeavours. He is a keen cricketer, swimmer and footballer.
‘‘Active in the School Music Programme, Lachlan has become a very impressive trumpet player.
‘‘Lachlan is involved in all aspects of school life, and has shown on many occasions, through his actions, words and determination, that he is a very worthy recipient of the Little Aussie Award.’’