Year 11 student Maverick Noakes from Moree Secondary College has earned national recognition with the Tom Harvey Award for Citizenship. He travelled to Sydney on Commonwealth Day to accept the award from Governor Margaret Beazley.
The award celebrates young Australians aged 15–30 who make an outstanding contribution to their community. Winners are recognised for leadership, helping others, and making a real difference.
Maverick is SRC president and a member of the Junior Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG). He also represents Connected Communities schools at the Minister’s Department of Student Voices in Education and Schools (DOVES).
He said: “I felt deeply honoured on meeting the Governor and being a successful nominee. It was an exciting experience, and I hope to continue pursuing opportunities like this.”
As Sustainability Council president, Maverick launched a program to make it easy for students and staff to recycle. He also champions inclusivity and culture, helping introduce new uniforms celebrating culture.
Relieving Executive Principal Bethany Kelly described him as “an exceptional young man who advocates for student voice and empowers young people.” The Clontarf Academy called him “an exceptional leader.”
Maverick shows that leadership isn’t about age—it’s about initiative, compassion, and dedication. His story proves that any student can make a difference in their school and community.
