Charles Charlton-Walker from Maclean High School was last Friday announced the inaugural Clarence Electorate Aboriginal Student of the Year for 2016 by Member for Clarence Chris Gulaptis. The Aboriginal Student of the Year is a new annual award recognising young people who demonstrate leadership within their school and local community. “As Member for Clarence, I was pleased to nominate Charles for this award,” said Mr Gulaptis. “Charles is a very worthy recipient of this award. He is held in high regard by his school and the wider community and he demonstrates positive leadership qualities both academically and socially.” “What’s even more pleasing is that Charles has been selected in the top 20 nominations and is invited to attend the Emerging Leaders Forum on 3 August at Parliament House”, Mr Gulaptis said As recognition of their achievements the Aboriginal Student of the Year for Clarence, Charles will receive a certificate and a gift voucher. Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Leslie Williams said the award program recognises emerging leaders, rewards students’ commitment to their local community and connects students to community leaders and role models. “The Aboriginal Student of the Year award highlights the outstanding contributions that young leaders are making in their local communities across the State,” said Mrs Williams. “I warmly congratulate all of the award winners and I look forward to meeting some of them in Sydney later this year.”