Students from across the region spent Friday 15 August at the Parliament of Victoria with Nationals member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland, after being recognised as recipients of the Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop award.

The award, which is organised through Ms Cleeland’s office, is an annual recognition for students across the electorate that demonstrate the attitude and values of local war-hero Weary Dunlop, including compassion, humility, friendship, forgiveness, courage, leadership, and integrity.

Ms Cleeland said she was incredibly proud to welcome the students to Parliament, saying that the future was in good hands.

“I want to congratulate the recipients of the award who joined for a day that included a tour of the MCG, lunch and a tour of Parliament House, a certificate presentation, photos, and more,” Ms Cleeland said.

“These are students who have gone through more hardship than most – yet have continued to demonstrate incredible resilience.

“From overcoming illness and the loss of loved ones, excelling in sport, stepping into leadership roles, achieving academically, or simply being a steadfast friend, each of these students has made an outstanding contribution to both their school, and their community.

“Some have faced challenges that many adults would struggle with, yet they continue to show remarkable resilience and determination.

“Many of these children may still be in primary school, but their actions speak volumes about the kind of leaders and citizens they will become.”

Recipients of the award in the shire this year were:

Angus Rowe, Euroa Secondary College

Claire Hemming, Nagambie Primary School

Hunter Friedrich, Avenel Primary School

Hunter O’Bree, Euroa Primary School

Zoe Holden, Longwood Primary School