It's was Amber Kelleher's own experience in Taree's nurturing youth scene which led to her receiving a NSW Children's Week award.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Taree High School year 10 student was among a group of young people acknowledged for their the achievements and contributions that make positive impacts on the lives of children and young people.
Her mother took her to Sydney for the event hosted by the NSW Advocate for Children and Young People under the guise of her being a nominee.
But the 15-year-old was in fact a winner, bringing home the Voice Award given to those who use their voice to bring change, inform others, and raise awareness.
"I think my mum knew I'd won, but I didn't," Amber smiled.
When she found out, she was speechless, and filled will excitement.
The nomination for the award came from Darren Mumford based on her work with the Manning Youth Action Team (MYAT).
Amber's involvement with the team came from her passion for people and music.
"I would always go to Live n Loud and then I found out MYAT ran it," she said. "I really like music and I wanted to go involved in more things like that."
As a budding young musician, she had first taken to the stage at the event when she was eight years old, with her guitar in hand.
"I did a few Live n Loud shows. Everyone is very supportive and it's really professional," Amber said.
But it's her passion for people that has an driven her to be involved in MYAT and many of its programs.
She's part of a Tuesday afternoon radio show on 2BOB and can be seen helping out with the pop-up coffee shop, Beans n Banter.
"I love meeting people, talking to people and getting to be around other people. It's like an addiction," she laughed.
One of the biggest programs she's involved in with MYAT is Summerfest, a music festival run by youth for youth, and this year she'll be one of the Masters of Ceremonies.
"I'm very excited and a little bit nervous, but I'm doing it with a really good friend and she's wonderful," Amber said.
Her and Sasha Fordham will be introducing all the acts at the event on Saturday, December 7 held at Harry Bennett Park, Taree.
Outside of MYAT, she also helps out during the nippers season at the Taree Old Bar Surf Life Saving Club, a program she also took part in when she was younger.
Anne Keen
Anne has been a journalist with the ACM (Australia Community Media) since 2016. She primarily works at the Gloucester Advocate but also contributes to the Manning River Times.
Anne has been a journalist with the ACM (Australia Community Media) since 2016. She primarily works at the Gloucester Advocate but also contributes to the Manning River Times.
