Talent show empowers youngsters

A spectacular display of talent was showcased at the Hedland’s Got Talent finale last week.

People turned out in large numbers at South Hedland Square last Friday to celebrate the creativity and bravery of young people in town in light of National Youth Week.

Three days of heats were held in the lead-up to the finale — delivering judges at the Youth Involvement Council the tricky task of selecting finalists from 49 acts.

Fourteen-year-old Ryan Russell placed first overall in the competition, which Youth Involvement Council chief executive Vicki-Tree Stephens said was one of the biggest nights on the Hedland calendar — and a testament to the support of the people who turned up each year.

“The entire YIC team has put in so much energy over the past weeks and months to make sure that this event was well planned and geared to celebrate all the great talent and achievements of youth in Hedland,” she said.

“It is so great for the young people of this town to take centre stage and showcase their talents to the community — many families were made so proud tonight.

“This event most definitely empowers young people to take a risk and be proud of the various talents that they hold.”

Among the performers was Perth musician Joel Takurua, 17, who was flown to Hedland for the week as a young inspiration.

From the 5-9 age group, Jakieta Binsaad and Zaquiuz Lewery received the male and female sports awards, Noah Lockyer received the arts and writing award, Attaya Binsaad received the education award, and Shannen Carlton received the community and culture award.

In the 10-17 age group, Gemma Hodder and Eamon Woodman received the male and female sports awards, Tyrell Gray received the arts and writing award, Zahra Hodder received the education award, and Stirling Flatfoot received the community and culture award.

In the 18-25 group, Saane Finau and Cody Betts received the male and female sports awards, Rebecca Starling received the arts and writing award, Marie Clifford received the career award, and Jeese Pawloff received the community and culture award.

“You would never believe the struggles that these young people have had to make it to this stage and even those who appear more confident have to overcome many internal challenges to get up there and show the community what they have,” Ms Stephens said.