Eaglers defender one of 3000 nominations in annual awards
WEST COAST veteran defender David Wirrpanda's work with young people has been recognised after his selection as a finalist for the Young Australian of the Year award.
Wirrpanda is one of 3000 such nominations for the awards which 'seek to acknowledge individuals who inspire national pride and enrich the lives of their fellow Australians'.
There are four categories of the Australian of the Year award -- the primary one, Young, Senior, and Local Hero.
The 29-year-old set up the David Wirrpanda Foundation three years ago which creates programs for Indigenous youth and was 'founded out of mutual desire to assist and develop young people through education, promoting healthy lifestyles and building self esteem'.
He is joined at the foundation by former Fremantle midfielder, now Perth captain, Troy Cook, and national league netballer, Bianca Franklin (pictured with Wirrpanda).
Last year, The Bulletin magazine named the Eagles star in the top 10 of most influential Indigenous people in Australia.
"If I can help the kids even a little bit, I will be able to sleep each night," Wirrpanda said then.
He was nominated for the Young Australian award by Wilma Ribel, from WA's Pilbara region, where youth have benefited from Wirrpanda's work.
"Wilma was so impressed with David and the work of the foundation that she took it upon herself to nominate him for the award," foundation chief executive officer Lisa Cunningham said.
"That David has now been named a finalist is fantastic recognition of his commitment to not only Indigenous students, but the community as a whole."
The Australian of the Year Awards will be presented on Saturday, November 22, at Government House Ballroom.
DARREN MONCRIEFF
Footballer@westnet.com.au
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Last Modified on 29/10/2008 01:16