AUSTRALIA’S No. 1 ranked powerlifter Cameron McKenzie this week returned to his former school, Charlton Christian College, at Fassifern, to inspire students to set high goals.
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It’s a subject that McKenzie, of Fennell Bay, is well qualified to speak about.
He is a multiple world record holder in the sport.
He also holds a degree in sports science and has worked for the Australian Rugby Union and the Sydney Roosters rugby league club.
He is currently in training to compete again at the International Powerlifting Federation Classic World Powerlifting Championships in Killeen, Texas, from June 19 to 26.
And he is a three-time winner of the Lake Macquarie Sports Person of the Year award.
“As someone who has worked incredibly hard to succeed, he was the perfect person to talk with students about goal setting, discipline and pursuing your dreams,” Charlton Christian College’s Michelle Thornton said.
McKenzie graduated from the school in 2010, and has fond memories of the place.
“It was a great experience to come back and speak with the students,” McKenzie said.
“I really wanted to encourage them to value themselves and believe that they can achieve anything if they are willing to work hard for it.”
McKenzie answered many questions from students about health and fitness, but also spoke openly about the harmful consequences of bullying and drug and alcohol abuse.
“McKenzie is a strong advocate for a clean and healthy lifestyle and is a great role model to the younger generation,” Ms Thornton said.
“Following a demonstration, Cameron joined the students for Strength Club, a gym mentoring program which has been running at the college since 2013. Many students took advantage of the opportunity to gain first-hand tips and techniques from Australia’s No. 1, with some being inspired to challenge themselves for the first time.”