Youth achievements acknowledged

By Emily Donohoe

Mar 3, 2025

Judges Jane Reid, Jenna Harvey and Matt Keating with Rochester Lions Club Youth of the Year contestants Letisha Mountjoy, Oakley Tarrant, Payton Tiller and Jordy Rasmussen.

The Rochester Lions Club Youth of the Year event celebrated the contributions of some of Rochy’s brightest young sparks on Wednesday, February 19.

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Each year, the club hosts the program, inviting student leaders to take part.

Four contestants were in the mix in 2025, the Rochester Secondary College school captain team, featuring Letisha Mountjoy, Jordy Rasmussen, Oakley Tarrant and Payton Tiller.

Rochester Lions Club Youth of the Year contestants Letisha Mountjoy, Oakley Tarrant, Payton Tiller and Jordy Rasmussen.

The program asks each student to deliver a prepared and an impromptu speech, drawing on qualities like leadership and community spirit.

Judges for the event were Campaspe Cohuna LLEN executive officer Jane Reid, Rochester Community House youth and community development officer Jenna Harvey and Rochester Motel owner Matt Keating.

This year, Oakley Tarrant was awarded the prestigious Youth of the Year title.