The Pride of Australia Medal 2007 - Role Model The Pride of Australia medal honors everyday Australians who do extraordinary things in our communities. They are our unsung heroes whose contribution to the Australian way of life is not widely known or recognized by the general public. Through their achievements, these remarkable Australians inspire us to help make Australia a better place to live.  These people are not high-profile Australians. They might be a friend, workmate, neighbor, your child's teacher, the local police officer or fire fighter or simply someone who has made your community a better place to live.

The Pride of Australia medal has grown from strength to strength and has uncovered heart-warming, courageous stories about everyday people whose extraordinary actions make you proud to be Australian.

Since its launch in 2005 the Pride of Australia award program, sponsored by News Ltd, publisher of The Daily Telegraph, has uncovered thousands of inspirational stories. This year's event proved the biggest yet, attracting more than 1000 nominations in NSW alone. Guest medal presenters Alan Jones and Sarah Murdoch were moved by the stories of comradeship and courage. "You are all winners," Mrs Murdoch told the 31 finalists. "The most amazing thing is the ability these people have to give so much back." In an emotional acceptance speech that moved many to tears, role model award winner Darren Marton dedicated his medal to his mother Maureen. "I never gave up on him," Mrs Marton said of her son, who amazingly turned his life around following drug addiction. Congratulations Darren, Well done on you recent award for Role Model in the 2007 Pride of Australia Awards. Darren, some people come into our lives and quietly pass by... others leave footprints on our hearts and we are never the same. You darren are one of those people and I am proud to call you a friend. Your personal efforts to help the youth of our nation are outstanding and you are truly making a difference. Again, well done and keep up the good fight. Michelle Moffat - Chief of Staff Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources   Federal Member for Hughes, Danna Vale MP with Maureen Marton. Maureen Marton & Darren Marton together with Sarah Murdoch.