BALLARAT 17-year-old Will Austin has been recognised for his work in the community, receiving the Victorian government’s Ricci Marks Award at the Koorie Youth Summit Gala Dinner in Melbourne.
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The St Patrick’s College year 12 student has worked to raise suicide prevention and mental health awareness throughout the community, through his campaign R U OK? Community Conversations.
Mr Austin attended a National Indigenous Youth Academy camp last year where he began the campaign.
He’s now involved in Headspace and wants to get the message out that people should be starting conversations and talking about their wellbeing.
“It’s amazing how many people are going through something and really down and you wouldn’t know it,” he said.
He also created a video through the Propeller Project to aid his campaign, How being a good mate starts with a simple question, and received a $1000 grant.
Mr Austin said he was working to bring another program to Ballarat, breaking down stereotypes and breaking through doors, after being inspired by another Propeller Project video.
“I think it will work really well in Ballarat.”
Mr Austin will receive a $5000 bursary with the award.