Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison took the opportunity to recognise Lake Macquarie youth Xavier Neil in NSW Parliament this week, after he was named Lake Mac Young Citizen of the Year. 

"Xavier is an extraordinary and incredibly generous young man, who has served as an ambassador for charities SurFebruary and Charlie's Run 4 Kids, helping to spread the word about these amazing charities," Ms Harrison said. 

"At just eleven years old, he has raised $70,000 to help treat cancer patients. On Xavier's first foray into fundraising back in 2019, he was able to raise $12,500 for a fundraiser called SurFebruary, after being introduced to it by a friend and cancer survivor.

"Wanting to do even more to help those in need, Xavier teamed up with his mum started making soaps and lip balm, which are now stocked in more than 25 businesses and online. The passion project, known as 'Good X Karma', donates all profits to Chris O'Brien Lifehouse to treat people with cancer.

"It was my pleasure to meet Xavier at the awards ceremony. Over 90 nominations were received for the 2022 Lake Mac Awards to recognise and celebrate the city's sporting greats, accomplished artists, environmental warriors, volunteers and ambassadors—and Xavier's award is very well-deserved!"