Townsville hero Cody Harris, 11, takes in the sights of Sydney after the awards ceremony. Picture: Cameron Richardson Source: The Courier-Mail
CODY Harris wasn't taking any chances with his newest prized possession yesterday. The 11-year-old kept his Pride of Australia medallion tucked safely in his pocket as he explored Sydney with his family and wrapped up what has been a big weekend for the humble hero.
The Child of Courage recipient was formally recognised at Saturday's ceremony in Sydney for his bravery and calm, after he saved the lives of his family when their Townsville home caught fire in May.
Yesterday, the youngster made the most of his trip, taking particular delight in riding the ferry and trains.
A first-time visitor to the city, he made sure he caught a glimpse of the Harbour Bridge, after keeping Saturday's sight-seeing to the confines of the hotel pool - to the amusement of his granddad, Peter Hill.
Mr Hill said the enormity of the award was only just hitting the family.
"It's sort of sunk in," a proud Mr Hill said. "He's sort of calming down a little bit."
Cody was one of four Queenslanders whose selflessness and capacity to inspire was recognised through News Limited's Pride of Australia awards, which attracted almost 3000 nominations this year.
Toowoomba's Malwal Mywin - who has worked ceaselessly to unite communities through his role with Mission Australia's Newly Arrived Youth Support Service - received the Fair Go award.
The Care and Compassion award went to the Gold Coast's Dr John Vance for his invaluable support for those with retinitis pigmentosa, a chronic eye disease that causes blindness.
Crows Nest resident Nicole Morris received the Community Spirit award for creating the Australian Missing Persons Register.
PRIDE OF AUSTRALIA- Winners of the Pride of Australia medals are pictured at the award ceremony at The Sheraton Hotel in Sydney today. Award winner for Child of Courage, Cody Harris pictured with his grandparents and twin sister. L to R, Janelle Hill, Ebony Harris, Cody Harris and Peter Hill. Picture: Sam Ruttyn Source: The Courier-Mail
No comments:
Post a Comment