Aquinas student selected for national leaders group

Frankie Dowse was presented her award by Lawrie Roache of Bayfair Caltex. Photo/Supplied

Local student Frankie Dowse has been recognised for her contribution to road safety in Tauranga.

A year 12 student from Aquinas College, Frankie is one of only 37 students from across the country to be selected to the Student Against Dangerous Driving (SADD) national young leaders group.

Frankie said she had enjoyed being a SADD national leader and had used my position to promote school events such as a mock car crash and a "stand up and be counted" activity in assembly

"It's been a new experience and I look forward to upcoming projects with SADD."

Frankie Dowse was presented her award by Lawrie Roache of Bayfair Caltex. Photo/Supplied

SADD chief executive Anna Braidwood said the national leaders were an important cohort of teens representing thousands of SADD members based in hundreds of schools across the country.

"They help to shape our student-led road safety programme, provide leadership and support to SADD groups on a local level, and are part of providing a strong youth voice on young driver and passenger safety in their community."

Ms Braidwood said road crashes were the leading cause of death and permanent injury among Kiwi teens.

"There really is no issue more pressing for our young people to address. Frankie is an example of the significant impact teens can have on pushing for positive change, and in making a difference for their communities."

Frankie Dowse was yesterday presented her award by Lawrie Roache of Bayfair Caltex, a sponsor of SADD.