General News
21 January, 2025
Commitment to community sees Julia Hastings named Young Person of the Year
Sixteen-year-old Julia Hastings - Young Citizen of the Year Award 2025
Known for her leadership, volunteerism, and community spirit, Julia Hastings has been named Horsham Rural City Council's 2025 Young Citizen of the Year.
Despite the 16-year-old dedication to community service and leadership, she was stunned to receive the award.
"I was very surprised when the mayor, Ian Ross, gave me the news, but I feel honoured too," she said.
Julia has a busy life with school, guides, volunteering, fundraising and a part-time job, but she said she enjoys all her activities and loves helping out in her various roles.
Getting her driver's licence this year was a highlight of turning 16 and will help her travel between her many activities.
Julia is an invaluable member of the leadership team at Guides Horsham.
Known for her initiative in planning and organising various activities, she always enters the hall with a smile and is ready to help wherever needed.
The 16-year-old positively influences the other girls who attend, encouraging them to try things, do their best, think independently, be mindful and kind to others, and take on new leadership opportunities.
In her leadership role at Guides, Julia has attended planning meetings, sleepovers, and camps and organised and ran unit meetings.
In addition to her leadership contributions, Julia has volunteered many hours at Vinnies in Horsham, where she assisted with pricing, presented secondhand items for sale, greeted customers, and processed transactions.
"Volunteering helps you make friends; it is fun, and at the same time, you're helping people, " she said.
"Mum and my grandmothers are in Girl Guides, so their involvement influenced me. But I enjoy it a lot.
"We help at community events and help carry out activities to support community organisations."
Julia's plans include a possible career in forensic psychology, teaching or music.