By Corey Everitt
Cockatoo’s Declan Kruzicevic-King proves that the kids are alright with his extensive work in the community earning him the title of Cardinia’s Young Citizen of the Year.
The 2025 Cardinia Shire Council Australia Day awards were held on Thursday 23 January where Keilah Dewar, Alice Mattille, both from Emerald, and Declan were up for an award that celebrates the best of the shire’s future.
Declan was given the honour for his volunteer work throughout the Cockatoo community from mentoring to emergency relief.
“It’s pretty surprising. I wasn’t expecting to get anything,” he said.
A Venturer Scout for the 1st Cockatoo Scouts, he mentored Joeys and Cubs throughout 2024 and helped build the many engaging programs.
The former Grey Wolf Peak Award recipient helped run fundraising stalls at the Cockatoo Market as well as assist the market as a whole.
During 2024’s February Storm, he jumped into action in the community to help deliver meals during the power outage and clear roads of extensive debris.
The active young man said he was glad to have helped.
“I just wanted to help out in the community because it’s something I enjoy doing,” he said.
“I’m most proud of actually building up the courage to help out in the community and help out with Scouts.”
Cr Casey Thomsen praised Declan for his leadership.
“Declan embodies the spirit of community service and leadership,” he said.
“His initiative, compassion and leadership are truly commendable.”
