Six past, present and incoming students have been nominated for the award, which will be announced on Australia Day.

Alia Ryan, who was a 2016 graduate, has volunteered for many years at the Ballarat Centre of Music and the Arts and loves watching young dancers develop.

Ella Kendall, year 11, coaches under 11 hockey teams, as well as helping out with cheerleading groups.

Georgia Walter, year nine, volunteers for the Ballarat Show Committee and a local animal rescue group.

Zoe Hocking and Hannah Musgrove were nominated for performing arts and sport respectively, while Lexi Ryan, going into year seven, volunteered at her primary school and donates to animal causes and Relay For Life.

Loreto College marketing director Judy-Ann Quilliam said community involvement and participation were part of the school’s values. “It’s wonderful to have six students nominated,” Ms Quilliam said.