Advocate for inclusion wins CFA award

Congratulations to Teghan Henderson - the recipient of the CFA Volunteer Excellence Award at the Seven News Young Achiever Awards.

Advocate

Gavin Freeman presents Teghan Henderson with her award.

Teghan, 22, was presented with her award by Acting Chief Officer and Acting CEO Gavin Freeman at a special gala awards night at Flemington Racecourse on Friday 10 May.

CFA was the category sponsor for this year's volunteer award which recognised volunteers under 30 for their commitment to supporting at-risk youth, the homeless and disadvantaged, emergency services, health, aged care, and not-for-profits.

An inspiring young woman, Teghan is a strong advocate for positive change and inclusion who dedicates her time to families in need of respite care on the weekends.

She plays a pivotal role in the community by supporting families of children with a disability.

She is a volunteer at Pinarc Disability Support in Ballarat and encourages other volunteers to join her. The Interchange Program at Pinarc matches a child or young person who has a disability with a host volunteer. The volunteer provides care for the child on a regular basis plus opportunities for friendship and positive experiences.

For her volunteer contribution Teghan received a trophy, $1000 from Bank of Melbourne and a $1000 Bartercard account from Wheelton Philanthropy and Budget Rent-A-Car.

“It was an honour to present Teghan with the CFA Volunteer Excellence Award at the Young Achievers Awards - well done Teghan,” Gavin said.

Learn more about Teghan in the video below:

CFA volunteer Cameron Sibeijn was a finalist in the category. 

Captain of Yarrambat Fire Brigade, Cameron’s achievements include receiving a scholarship from Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria to complete the VFBV Volunteer Leadership, helping found District 14 Headquarters Brigade, becoming District 14 President of the VFBV Multi-Agency Youth, a board member of the Volunteer Leadership Network, as well as receiving a ten-year service medal from CFA. He is also a recipient of the National Emergency Medal.

Cameron Sibeijn with Gavin Freeman.

The Young Achiever Awards began in 2012 to acknowledge, encourage and promote the positive achievements of young people up to and including 29 years. 

The awards showcase the achievements of young Victorians, and pay tribute to their vision, innovation and commitment to contributing to their community.

Author: Shaunnagh O'Loughlin