By Rowan Forster
Despite her youth, Meaghan Venables has been one of the most active contributors in the Pakenham and Beaconsfield communities.
On Australia Day, the 21-year-old was bestowed with the honour of being Cardinia Shire’s Young Citizen of the Year.
As an active member of Scouts for more than a decade, a volunteer surf lifesaver and 2016’s Pakenham and District Agricultural Show junior ambassador, Ms Venables has dabbled in her fair share of initiatives.
She told the Gazette she was very surprised to receive the award.
“To be perfectly honest, I was really shocked to get the award,” she said.
“I was really surprised and had no idea but I’m really humbled about the whole experience and how much the community has supported me.”
Her tireless work has also earnt her an Australian Scouting Medallion and a Queen Scout Award.
“Scouting itself has brought me from being a very sheltered person to being a very outgoing person who loves to give back to the community,” she added.
“I’ve had the chance to go overseas and it’s been a huge part of my life and I’m forever grateful for it.”
Over the past two years, Ms Venables – along with other young woman – has introduced new technologies and categories to the Pakenham Show, facilitating its continued evolution.
“The show has made me grow on a whole different level again.”
“They’ve supported every crazy idea I’ve had and Janette and Geoff (from the society) have supported me so much as a person.”
Her efforts were lauded by Cardinia Shire Mayor Graeme Moore.
“At just 21 years of age, this surf lifesaving volunteer and active award-winning scout leader has contributed significantly to the safety and wellbeing of our young people and wider community in and around Beaconsfield,” he said.
Even despite winning, Ms Venables was extremely humble – focused on the achievements of her fellow nominees.
“I am so proud of the other candidates and their achievements and if they continue to show that passion, they’re going to go so far as individuals.”
