We are delighted to share and acknowledge the fabulous achievement of Hamish Cracknell, Year 12 (2022 Graduate). This year Hamish completed his Duke of Edinburgh’s International Gold Award. Hamish will be presented with the Award in December. He will receive his certificate from Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AO KC, Governor of New South Wales.
What is the Duke of Edinburgh International Award?
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global framework for non-formal education, which challenges young people to dream big, celebrate their achievements and make a difference in their world. Through developing transferable skills, increasing their fitness levels, cultivating a sense of adventure and volunteering in their community, the Award helps young people to find their purpose passion and place in the world to become world ready!
We asked Hamish a few questions about his journey to achieving the Gold Award.
Q: What activities are you doing for your Award?
For my Bronze and Gold Awards, I did the same activities. For my physical recreation, I did cycling, usually around my local area. For my skill, I was learning the bass guitar and that meant I got to play with the Senior Stage Band for the past year. I helped with the local Joey Scouts and learnt many leadership skills for my service.
Q. What was the favourite part of your Award? / or favourite Award memory?
My favourite part of the Award was the camps I went on during my adventurous journeys and residential project. For my Gold residential project, we went to Gilgandra with an amazing group of people from Shellharbour Anglican College. We spent a week helping the community by planting trees, painting buildings and gardening. For my Gold adventurous journey, we went to the Blue Mountains and Snowy Mountains with a smaller but similar group from Shellharbour Anglican College. The whole experience was amazing and such fun despite the challenges thrown at us throughout the hikes because of the weather. Getting to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko was an amazing experience.
Q. What impact has the Award had on you?
The Duke of Ed award has had a positive impact on my life. It has shown me that goals are worth persisting in despite the obstacles and challenges along the way. It has also given me an appreciation for camping and putting myself out of my comfort zone. Through the Award, I have made great memories and friendships that will continue to bring me joy.
