Not many eight-year-olds can say they’ve received an award from the prime minister, but St Bernards Primary School’s Cory can.
Last Thursday, the grade 2 Bacchus Marsh pupil was among 20 children to receive a Prime Minister’s National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Medal.
Cory, 8, was awarded for his short story on the history of Australia’s indigenous people, explaining some of their traditions, stories and symbols.
“This is a very big achievement for a very little boy,” proud father Chris Huculak says.
Cory was presented with the inaugural medal by Moorabool’s Cr Tonia Dudzik at a special assembly.
“I think he was very surprised that he won … he was speechless,” Mr Huculak said. “For Cory, being Aboriginal is very important and he has great pride and understanding of his roots.
‘‘[My wife Joy and I] hope this will have a profound impact on his life.”
Cory’s entry was one of more than 100,000 from around Australia. The determined pupil was adamant he would win the competition, despite competing against children up to four years older. St Bernards principal Emilio Scalzo says Cory’s teachers are proud, and it’s an enormous milestone for such a young pupil.
Earlier this year, Cory greeted walkers on the national Journey to Recognition.
During NAIDOC Week, he helped raise the flag on behalf of the Indigenous Group For Residents in Bacchus Marsh and Surrounds, of which he is a member.
Cr Dudzik says Cory showed great initiative to demonstrate such strong identification with his indigenous heritage.
