Jordan McIntosh has wanted to be a firefighter from the age of four. Now on the cusp of adulthood, he has achieved that dream.
His contribution to the emergency services has now been recognised state-wide as he has been named a 2021 Youth Week Award finalist.
The WA Youth Awards were established in 1999 to recognise the achievements and contributions to the community of young Western Australians aged 12 to 25 years.
The award categories cover areas including positive achievement, small organisation's achievement, large organisation's achievement, community leadership and creative contribution.
The Murray-Wellington local has contributed to the emergency services since 2016 when he enrolled in his school's Emergency Services Cadet Corp.
In 2018, Mr McIntosh joined the Bunbury Bush Fire Brigade as a cadet, and was an active adult member within three months.
Last year, his commitment saw him win the Youth Achievement Award at the 2020 WA Fire and Emergency Services Gala Dinner.
He is now a leader of the cadet program within his school and provides training, motivation and encouragement for new members.
Murray-Wellington MP Robyn Clarke said it was great to see a young local recognised for their community efforts.
"The finalists are young leaders who are making significant contributions to their sector, and our whole community should be proud of their achievements," she said.
"Young people and organisations make such valuable contributions in Murray-Wellington and it is wonderful to see them getting recognised for their efforts."
Minister for Youth Dave Kelly also said the finalist highlight young people's dedication to their communities.
"I am really pleased to see the WA Youth Awards, now in their 22nd year, return after a brief hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic last year," he said.
"The calibre of entries is extremely high and highlights the incredible passion and dedication of a diverse range of young people, youth workers and youth organisations across the state and on Christmas Island.
"It is important that we continue to recognise and celebrate young people and those who work to support them, particularly after such a tough year in 2020."
The 2021 WA Youth Awards will mark the start of Youth Week WA, which runs from April 9-12.
For the full list of finalists and their achievements visit www.yacwa.org.au
