West Coast Eagle Dean Kemp appointed to fill role of WA's first Champion for Youth

17/3/98

The State Government today announced that West Coast Eagles star Dean Kemp has been appointed to fill the role of Western Australia's first Champion for Youth.

Youth Minister Mike Board said Dean would promote the delivery of services by the Office of Youth Affairs to young people throughout the State.

"Dean was chosen to fulfil the role as Champion for Youth because of his widespread appeal as a high profile sportsperson in WA and his ability to communicate with both adults and young people," Mr Board said.

"He has also faced some of life's hardships as a young person and has triumphed over these circumstances to succeed in one of the most demanding and challenging areas of sporting profession.

"Dean has endured at the top of his profession for many years and has demonstrated great strength of character both on and off the field.

"It is these qualities which make him a good choice to present a positive and motivational message to young people and adults right throughout the State."

Dean's duties will include promoting programs and initiatives such as youth advisory councils, and campaigns to promote a positive image of youth like Cadets WA and JOY 98.

He will also assist in and appear at youth consultations and other forums where the opinions of young people are sought and undertake representative duties such as the presentation of awards and prizes, and meet with disadvantaged and at-risk young people. He will also feature in media advertisements and promotional material.

One of his first roles will be at this week's JOY 98 festival, which starts on Thursday.

Dean said he was excited to be chosen as the State's first Champion for Youth.

"I see a lot of young people right around WA doing a lot of great things and it will be terrific to be involved in publicly promoting their achievements," Dean said.

"I enjoy mixing with young people and this position gives me an opportunity to be involved in a broad range of promotional and liaison work with young people in WA."

Mr Board said the State Government had taken a lead role in developing a national campaign to promote the achievements and images of youth and to encourage an understanding of the importance of education and training opportunities for young people.

"We are committed to valuing young people and recognising their achievements and contributions, and to assisting them to realise their potential," the Minister said.

"All too often, public attention is focused on negative aspects relating to our young people.

"The Government is determined to promote a positive image of youth."

Media contact: Peter Harris (08) 9222 9211