NEWS DESK
Citizen baton to be passed on THE 2016 Frankston Citizen of the Year, David Cross, said he had been “humbled” by the experiences of the past year, which enabled him to meet a broader range of people and represent the Frankston community. Mr Cross, the chair of the Frankston Environmental Friends Network and secretary of the Friends of Wallace Reserve, said it is important for councils to continue to honour community leaders and “ordinary” people who volunteered their time for the community. Mr Cross is an active member of the Rotary Club of Frankston and also works with guides, scouts, disability groups and school councils alongside his conservation work at Wallace Reserve. He said some highlights of his time as Citizen of the Year included being asked to plant a lone pine at the new war memorial at Beauty Park, and being able to engage with people from the wider community. “It was a surprise to be nominated and has been a truly humbling experience because there are so very many wonderful people doing wonderful things in Frankston,” he said. Mr Cross said he believed the role had the additional benefit of raising the profile of various community organisations and allowed them to network with others. “But probably the most important thing about the award is that councils are recognising ordinary people who are doing good work in their communities.” Ahead of the Australia Day announcements of this year’s award recipients, Mr Cross offered his “heartiest congratulations” to the person carrying the ambassador’s baton in 2017. “Good luck and enjoy 2017 as you serve and represent the community of our wonderful city.” Liz Bell Passing baton: David Cross wishes his successor as Citizen of the Year all the best. Picture: Yanni
The doctors are in STUDENTS from Carrum Downs and Patterson River secondary colleges will have on-site access to healthcare when the ‘Doctors in Secondary Schools’ program is rolled out in term three. The Australian-first program aims to make it easier for young people who might have concerns about confidentiality and medical costs to see a doctor. Carrum MP Sonya Kilkenny said adolescents had some of the lowest GP attendance rates, and many were missing out on the vital healthcare they needed. “This innovative program commencing at Carrum Downs Secondary College and Patterson River Secondary College will help address barriers preventing students in Carrum District from seeing a doctor,” she said. Under the program, the health records of young people will be confidential and managed according to law. School-based doctors will decide whether students are mature enough to consent to treatment or whether parent or carer consent is needed. See education.vic.gov.au or call 1800 809 834 for more information.
Keeping PACE THE Peninsula Advisory Committee for Elders (PACE) is inviting senior residents to join the committee. PACE aims to assist in shaping and creating inclusive communities for older people and to help the shire respond to their issues. Expressions of interest close Friday 27 January. Forms available at mornpen.vic.gov.au/PACE; shire customer service centres; or call Tanya Gilbert on 5950 1617.
Frankston Times 23 January 2017
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