TRANSCRIPT:
Over the past fortnight I have had the pleasure of meeting with emerging young leaders at primary schools across the Euroa electorate. I love listening to the young people of our community and hearing about the ways they are showing leadership every day, from helping their family at home to being kind in the schoolyard or being a role model each and every day. They advised me that this week to be a good leader I need to be kind, not interrupt and smile, because happiness is contagious. These kids also gave some fabulous advice for all of us which I said I would pass on to other MPs today. The school captains at St Patrick’s Kilmore – Bridget, Jordan and Sarah – said that a good leader is kind, does not annoy people, upholds strong values and is responsible, humble, confident, a good role model, compassionate and considerate. Importantly, fellow school captain Max said a good leader is not arrogant.
At Broadford Primary School I was told all the four Rs by school captain Kim – responsibility, respect, readiness and resilience – while Sidney said leaders solve problems and need to be great listeners. Evan said leaders must be open to a variety of opinions and care for others. Kayden said it was important to use common sense, but that was not always common. These are traits all of us can learn from.
I also want to thank the 32 student leaders at Avenel Primary School, including school leaders Immy and Charlotte and vice captains Wren and Bailey-Rose, who allowed me to participate in their badge ceremony. I am confident the region is in good hands with these kind, compassionate and responsible young people leading the way.