Flinders News correspondent and Port Broughton student Sonny Coombs was recently recognised for his contributions to the community at the 2009 Student Citizenship Awards.

Sonny travelled to Government House in Adelaide to accept his award from His Excellency Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce, Governor of South Australia.

With a long list of achievements to his name, the 17-year-old was nominated for the award by Port Broughton Area School teacher and librarian Rosalie Patterson.

“I wasn’t surprised when Sonny got the award because he met all the criteria listed,” she said.

Sonny has been involved in a number of community programs including the Youth Advisory Council, the Road Safety Group and the Community Library Board of Management.

He has also been involved in the campaign to preserve Port Broughton’s heritage buildings.

After receiving his scroll and medal, Sonny had the chance to tour Government House which he described as “huge and very elegant.”

“My family were really proud of me,” he said.

Sonny is completing Year 12 and looking forward to ‘schoolies week’ at Victor Harbor after his exams.

“I have put in my preferences for university, I have chosen teaching but I am also interested in cadetships in journalism,” he said.

“But first I’m looking forward to schoolies, the whole Year 12 class is going together.”