Local Coonabarabran boy, Fred Kearney (17) has been awarded the 2023 Lions Australia Youth of the Year award at the 2023 Lions Multiple District (MD) National Convention held at the Star Casino in Broadbeach, Gold Coast from Thursday 27 April to Monday 1 May 2023.

Previously being crowned the NSW Lions Youth of the Year at the beginning of April this year, Fred has now taken out the top spot, competing against other inspiring youths from Australian states including Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Queensland.

Fred says he is still in shock after being announced as the Lions Australia Youth of the Year recipient.

"It really has not sunk in just yet. I am still on a high from the whole experience," he said.

"I just feel so excited and grateful to have been given this opportunity".

ABOVE: Fred Kearney with The Armidale School 's public speaking co-ordinator Tim Hughes and his parents Pip and Vern Kearney. PHOTO: Supplied.

Fred spent his childhood and early adolescence in Coonabarabran. He lived at Yarrigan, 20 kilometres from Baradine, attending school at Coonabarabran High School until Year 8. He then made the move to Armidale as a boarder at The Armidale School (TAS).

Between study for Year 12 exams, Fred has made sure to allocate time towards his other passions.

"My favourite subjects at school are economics and business. I also love my sport, with my biggest passions being rugby league, rugby union and rowing"

"I also really enjoy participating in service initiatives. At TAS last term we participated in the Blue Tree Project, promoting and encouraging people from rural areas to speak up about mental health concerns," he said.

Taking part in the Lions Youth of the Year application and judging process has been life-changing for Fred.

"My teachers and peers at TAS first inspired me to enter into the Lions Youth of the Year competition. They believed that I had what it takes to go all the way. The process has been timely, but oh so worth it," Fred said.

"You first have to submit a CV, which contains many components including your cultural, sporting and academia achievements both in and out of school, as well as your participation in service initiatives and other co- curricular activities.

"The interview is worth 70% of all the marks. It is a general knowledge quiz covering both domestic and international issues. I was asked about the current housing crisis and the environment.

"I tried to implement and answer as best as I could. I made sure to implement my personal experiences and knowledge of growing up out west and attending multiple rural schools.

ABOVE: Fred Kearney competed against inspiring youth from all across Australia. PHOTO: TAS.

Fred has big plans for the future.

"I have this year left of school, and I hope I can make the biggest difference I can whilst I am still here. This program has allowed me to realise my deep passion for community. I have been able to make important connections and develop skills I will use for the rest of my life.

"Hopefully next year I will be studying a Double Degree of Economics and Law at Australian National University or Sydney University". 

ABOVE: Fred Kearney enjoying the high life at the Gold Coast. PHOTO: TAS.

The Armidale School (TAS) praised Fred's achievements in a Facebook post on Tuesday 2 May.

"We are incredibly proud of Fred Kearney, who this morning was named the overall winner of the National Lions Youth of the Year competition at a gala event at the Star Casino at the Gold Coast. Interviews with a panel of six judges yesterday on current affairs, academic, co-curricular and student leadership was followed by the public speaking component this morning, where the finalists answered two impromptu speeches and delivered a 5 minute prepared speech.

"Fred’s focus on the strength of communities in allowing vulnerability and seeking help in times of crisis rather than ‘toughing it out’ resonated with the judges. Congratulations Fred on this magnificent achievement and all it represents".