Shyne Brenton of Nakara is in the running for the 2008 NT Young Achievers Award.
The NT Young Achiever Awards promotes the positive achievements of young Territorians between 14 and 26 years of age and includes the Department of Health & Community Services Young Carers Award.
Sixteen-year-old Shyne Brenton has been recognised for her contribution in the field of Health and Community Services through her commitment in caring for her mother.
Darwin resident Ms Brenton was just 13 when her mother became ill and required treatment interstate. She took on responsibilities including organising bill payments, housing and transport, cooking, cleaning, bathing, shopping, appointments and ensuring medication was taken.
Through all of this Ms Brenton remained dedicated to playing her favourite sport - hockey - and also became the Young Carers Territory representative at the Australian National Young Carers Action Team.
Department of Health and Community Services spokeswoman Penny Fielding says Ms Brenton's selfless attitude should be recognised.
"The patience and love Ms Brenton has for her mother is inspirational. She's shown responsibility and maturity far beyond her years.
"We sponsor this award because it is important to acknowledge the role many young people play in the health and community services field.
The winner of each of the nine categories will receive a trophy and $2,000 TIO Build up saver account. The overall Channel 9 Young Achiever of the Year will receive an additional $2,000 TIO Build Up saver account and a handcrafted glass trophy.
The Young Achievers Awards recognises the contribution of young people in the categories of community service, arts, sports, environment, career achievement, science and technology/engineering, regional and rural initiative, young carers and excellence in youth leadership.
Finalists and winners of the NT Young Achievers Awards will be announced at a special gala awards presentation dinner on Saturday 5th April.
The two other finalists for the NT Government's Department of Health and Community Services' Young Carers Award are Patricia Malbunka, 24, of Hermannsburg and Natalia Ransome-Daniel, 15, of Tennant Creek.
Media enquiries: Cameron Jackson, DHCS Media Support Officer 0401 116 144
Release date: 27 February 2008
