Each year I am pleased to make an award for community service to a student in each of the schools in our local area. Over the coming days I will be making these awards at end of year ceremonies.

This morning I was at Alesco Senior College's ceremony in Griffith Duncan Theatre to celebrate with students and to make the first community service award of this year to Brittany Maher.

Brittanycommenced her HSC studies at Alesco Senior College this year. She has persisted with completing her studies despite many personal obstacles and setbacks. Not only has she worked hard to successfully complete the first year of her HSC studies, she has also been working extremely hard throughout the year to drive school fundraising projects.

Through her commitment and perseverance she has managed to raise over $8,000 in moneyand prizes donated to the school for its ongoing fundraising efforts. This is an amazing achievement which Brittany should feel very proud of.

I was delighted to meet Brittany. Well done and congratulations to her and to the other students who will receive the award from me in the coming days!