Bernie Shakeshaft is a hero to the many youths he has supported over more than a decade through his work BackTrack Youth Works.
The Founder and CEO was officially recognised for his tireless community work when he was awarded the 2020 Local Hero Australian of the Year award.
Since 2006, Bernie and Backtrack have supported more than 1000 local youth across the New England by helping them get ‘back on track’ through building confidence and providing them real life skills.
BackTrack is a not-for-profit community organisation that works with disadvantaged youth in the New England region and helps them reconnect to education and training.
Since 2014, Greater Bank has provided $300,000 in funding to support their AgLads program - an industry-led initiative that provides young people with practical skills, training and experience on farms, as well as pathways to local employment opportunities.
Thanks to our continued support, more than 180 local youth aged between 12 and 18 years have taken part in the AgLads program many of who have gone on to successfully achieve their HSC or completed traineeships, often being the first in their families to do so.
BackTrack currently runs eight programs including AgLads, Paws Up and BT Works, and has launched BackTrack Everywhere, where the BackTrack team respond to community requests for support in establishing their own youth support programs.
Congratulations to Bernie on his award and very well-deserved recognition for the outstanding work he is undertaking in regional NSW communities.