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LEE QUEENSLANDS NOMINATION FOR AUSSIE OF THE YEAR

21-11-07

Lee Kernaghan our shot for Australian of the Year
November 20, 2007 - 7:32PM
Courier Mail [Fairfax]

Country music star Lee Kernaghan will be Queensland's shot at the 2008 Australian of the Year awards after winning the state title.

Queensland Premier Anna Bligh tonight announced Kernaghan as the state's Australian of the Year for his dedication to charity work.

Lee's from the bush - he cares and he gives back," she said at a ceremony in Brisbane.

"His selfless efforts with (his) 'Pass the Hat Around' tours have raised more than a million dollars for communities in need."

Kernaghan's participation in the 'Spirit of the Bush' tours - which aim to raise spirits and funds for families affected by drought - was also a factor in selecting him for the award, she said.

"Just like Slim Dusty, his trademark black hat and smile, mark him as a decent bloke making life happier for those he entertains.

"He's a worthy winner."

Other Queenslanders up for the honour were Indigenous leader Noel Pearson, Special Olympics volunteer Anna-Louise Kassulke and child psychologist Professor Paul Barratt.

Ms Bligh said more than 3,000 Australians were nominated for the 2008 Australian of the Year awards.

Queensland will also be represented at the awards by the state's Young Australian of the Year winner, orphans' advocate Lars Olsen; Senior Australian of the Year winner Brian Egan, for his work in drought relief; and Victoria Point youth mentor Michael Meehan, who won the Local Hero award for Queensland.

The Prime Minister's Australian of the Year awards are held in Canberra on January 25.

Former Queensland Australian of the Year winners who have gone on win the national award include Pat Rafter, Professor Ian Frazer, Senator Neville Bonner, Cathy Freeman and Professor Peter Doherty, Ms Bligh said.

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 http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/news/queensland/lee-kernaghan-our-shot-for-australian-of-the-year/2007/11/20/1195321779330.html 

 

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