Brinaewaetathra (Brinae) West’s grandmother died six years ago, leaving the legacy of helping others in her granddaughter’s hands.
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Brinae pledged she would follow in her grandmother’s footsteps.
She felt it was her duty to live up to her grandmother’s values and carry on in her footsteps.
Brinae West received the Young Citizen of the Year award at yesterday’s Australia Day ceremony in Victoria Park.
“My grandmother was a full blood aboriginal,” Ms West said.
“She was also an orphan and always wanted to do something for other underprivileged kids.
“When she died six years ago, I felt I needed to walk in her footsteps and help the community, as she did.”
Ms West’s family and friends were present with her during the ceremony, sharing the pride and success with her.
“I would also like to thank my father, Harry West, and my family and friends,” she said.
“I didn’t expect to receive the award, it’s good to be recognised.”
Ms West said she would be placing the award in the family room, with all of her other awards she has received for community work.
“It really is a big privilege, it’s exciting and it’s a good feeling,” she said.
Ms West is one of the junior executives of the Pinnaroo PCYC Netball Club and was one of the founding members.
She is involved as a player, coach, umpire and registrar.
Ms West also holds the position of publicity officer at Dubbo Youth Council.
Ms West has given her time to volunteer with the PCYC and teach dance classes during the school holidays.