Andrew Gee (Calare, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

I rise today to recognise an outstanding initiative by Regional Development Australia Central West, the TEN4TEN Leadership Dialogue. This program connects 10 year 11 students with 10 community leaders, fostering mentorship and opportunities across the Central West of New South Wales. This year's students were Rose Kelly, Abby Foster, Nina Cuddy, Bianca Wong, Harmony Winterflood, Amelia Hatton, Sofia Howard, Lauren Day, Tully Schwarz and Milo Mages. I had the privilege of mentoring Milo, a remarkable year 11 student from Kinross Wolaroi School in Orange.

Milo joined me out on the road to the Mudgee Small Farm Field Days, where he proved himself to be an expert and able photographer and media adviser. Milo's achievements speak volumes. During Local Government Week, his debating team won the Mayor's Cup, and Milo himself was awarded the Kerry Parkes Memorial Trophy for best speaker. Looking ahead, Milo is continuing his leadership journey, serving as Gordon House prefect in 2026 at Kinross Wolaroi School.

Programs like TEN4TEN are absolutely vital. They open doors, build confidence and strengthen the ties between young people and their communities. I commend Regional Development Australia Central West for championing this initiative and investing in the next generation of leaders, just like Milo. Well done, Milo, and congratulations to all of this year's students.

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