By Victoria Stone-Meadows
THE 2016 Casey Young Citizen of the Year will be waving off the bikes at this year’s GP Run from Cranbourne to Phillip Island.
Oliver Thomson, 13, was made Young Citizen of the Year by the City of Casey at a ceremony on Australia Day this year.
A passionate singer, the St Francis Xavier College Berwick Campus student has performed at many community events such as Australia Day events, the Berwick Show, Casey Kids Carnival and the Narre Warren North Christmas Carols.
Oliver was given the award for his contribution to the arts in Casey and for actively participating in a variety of local charities and fundraisers.
“I am very privileged and honoured to have received this award,” he said.
Not only will he be waving the chequered flag to send the bikes on their way, he will also be performing the Australian national anthem for the assembled crowd.
“I am really excited to be waving the flag from the cherry picker at the GP Run,” he said.
“I have attended the GP Run for the past three years and it’s a great privilege to be offered the opportunity to be this year’s Guest Celebrity.”
While no stranger to performing in public, having been a member of the national boys’ choir for many years, Oliver said there is always some apprehension before getting up on stage.
“It is always exciting to perform at different events but at the same time there is always an element of nervousness,” he said.
Oliver Thomson will be waving off the bikes for the GP Run about 10am on Saturday 22 October from High Street, Cranbourne.
