
Canowindra's Claire Wright may have found herself a job in politics while still being in high school.
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Claire was lucky enough to write a constituency statement for the Member for Calare, Andrew Gee, which was read out in the Federation Chamber last Thursday.
Claire's speech acknowledged Andrew Phelan, Janeen Coutanche, Alison Stevens, Kathleen Balcombe and Andrew Pull's contribution to the Canowindra community.
"Locals in Canowindra have contributed in many ways to help the community thrive and to better the lives of those living around them," the speech read.
"Canowindra High runs the Duke of Edinburgh program for students in Year 9 to 12, this program has been running for several years and has recently been coordinated by former teacher Andrew Phelan and current teacher Janeen Coutanche.
"This extracurricular program takes an immense amount of organisation outside of school hours, through the commitment and dedication of the many teachers involved the students have experienced amazing hikes, learnt new skills such as leadership, archery and first aid and have been actively involved in volunteering in their community.
"Alison Stevens the current owner of Canowindra Tire Service is also an incredible asset to Canowindra's community.
"Al is recognised as a successful businesswoman and is also heavily involved in both Canowindra Public School and Canowindra High School through the P&C.
"Al is significantly involved on many levels in local sporting organisations such as netball, junior rugby and the swimming club. Within this involvement she had become a mentor or role model.
"Kathleen Balcombe is a chemistry teacher at Canowindra High School and current year advisor of Year 11, she is a fantastic teacher and another wonderful role model within the school community.
"Kath has raised her family in Canowindra and has been involved in the community for many years. She keeps her student's best interests at heart and encourages those off all abilities to participate within the school.
"An inspiring local Andrew Pull has been instrumental to the success of women's rugby league in the local area.
"The growth of women's rugby codes in recent years has been significant and has provided a quality in local sporting communities, well done Andrew."
In giving the statement, Mr Gee acknowledged Claire's hard work in producing the speech.
"Claire is a young champion of her local community and country Australia and I have no doubt she will go on to do great things in life for both Canowindra and our nation," he said.
"I have been mentoring Claire through Regional Development Australia Central West's Ten4Ten mentoring program and I have been very impressed with the example she sets for others.
"One of Claire's goals in life is to study science to help farmers with sustainability practices on their land.
"She's Canowindra High's girls captain for 2021 and is part of the next generation on inspiring country leaders.
"Well done Claire and a big hello to everyone at Canowindra High who may be watching us this morning."
In reply, Deputy Speaker, Trent Zimmerman, congratulated Claire on her contribution.
"I thank the member for Calare and like with the Member for Dobell we congratulate Claire for her contribution and hope she writes all your future speeches as well," he said.