Australia's country music star Lee Kernaghan was named
Australian of the Year for 2008 here on the eve of the Australian
Day.
The Victorian-born singer and songwriter was anointed successor
to climate change crusader Tim Flannery at a ceremony outside
Parliament House in Canberra tonight. He was chosen from more
than3,000 people nominated by the public.
Naming him Australian of the Year, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd
said: "Lee Kernaghan's music resonates with every Australian by
connecting us all to the spirit of the bush, but more importantly
he gives hope and pride to those on the land when they need
inspiration most."
Over the past 10 years, the country star has led "Pass the Hat
Around" and "Spirit of the Bush" tours, raising more than US$1
million for communities in need, particularly drought-ravaged
families.
Australian of the Year Lee
Kernaghan.(file photo: Xinhua)
Kernaghan, 43, admitted he was surprised at the honor but said
he would use his new role to help farmers battling the drought.
"In all my dreams, I could never have imagined that I'd receive
an award like this--it's been a huge surprise and, without doubt,
it's the greatest honor I have ever been given in my entire life,"
he said
Motorcycle champion Casey Stoner was named Young Australian of
the Year, finance entrepreneur David Bussau took the seniors award
and Australia's local hero is choirmaster Jonathon Welch, for his
work with the Choir Of Hard Knocks.
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(Xinhua News Agency January 28, 2008)
