Kawana MP Jarrod Bleijie has congratulated Bridie Edwards on her win in the first round of the Lions Youth of the Year competition.

Bridie beat four other students from two Kawana-area schools to claim victory in the Lake Currimundi-Kawana Lions Club Youth of the Year contest.

The 16-year-old Meridan State College student will now head off to compete in the regional round of the annual contest with the aim of continuing her winning efforts through to the state and national titles.

Lake Currimundi-Kawana Lions Club Youth of the Year Chairman, Kawana MP Jarrod Bleijie, said Bridie was an impressive contestant who excelled in the interview round of the judging and went on to deliver polished prepared and impromptu speeches on the night.

“All five students did their schools proud on the night with interesting and entertaining presentations,” Mr Bleijie said.

“The judges had a tough task, but ultimately Bridie’s combined scores in the various areas of judging pushed her to the lead.”

Bridie is school captain and a keen athlete.

“Bridie is a fine young leader in the making,” Mr Bleijie said.

“I congratulate her on her win, and all of the students on their efforts, as well as the Lake Currimundi-Kawana Lions Club members for their hard work in making this annual event, which I am delighted to chair, a success.

“All of the students who took part were strong contenders and I have no doubt they will make influential leaders in their chosen careers.”

In making their decision, the judges assessed candidates against a range of criteria including academic excellence, leadership as well as sporting, public speaking and citizenship achievements.

Bridie will compete against the winners from various Coast clubs at the regional final.