Youth in line for award

You might think Australia's cricket trophy cabinet is bulging after winning its fifth World Cup last weekend.

But Hedland's Torekana Bule-Turner, 15, is fast assembling an honours list just as long, having collected multiple State and local youth awards since he was 11.

The taekwondo black belt not only leads classes for up to 100 people each week but also helps children grow their confidence by performing with local break-dancing group The Hood.

Now his hard work could be rewarded with a new honour on April 16 after he was placed on the short list for the Youth Leadership prize at the 2015 National Youth Awards.

Torekana said he was "stoked" to be one of just three West Australians nominated for the 2015 awards.

"I was very shocked but very honoured to be nominated for such a prestigious award," he said.

"(It has come about because) I try to set a good example for local kids.

"As a (taekwondo and break- dancing) teacher, I have to (live up to) the attitudes I believe in, such as being confident in yourself and who you are."

Torekana's positive leadership has helped him promote healthy living messages related to issues of drug and alcohol abuse, smoking and diabetes among other youngsters.

Federal Liberal Member for Durack Melissa Price said it was invaluable for Hedland to find leadership in one so young.

"Torekana is a credit to our community," she said.

"He has shown that your age is no barrier to getting involved and helping others."

The Youth Leadership award will be presented as part of National Youth Week, which runs from April 10-19 and is open to young Australians aged between 12 and 25.