Meet Melbourne's new Junior Lord Mayor — Daniel Lan
with thanks to 13CABS


Daniel Lan - Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne 2021Watch out, litterbugs: Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne 2021 Daniel Lan
The Northside Christian College, Bundoora, student won the Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne competition, edging out four other finalists.
"I love the street vibe of Melbourne. There are so many beautiful street artworks around every corner and every alleyway," Daniel said.
"I also love the community of Melbourne. Everyone in the CBD although doesn't know each other personally, supports each other in times of need. This is the community spirit I value in Melburnians."
Daniel, 12, who's also a pianist, impressed at a judging ceremony held via video link and live streamed on the internet.
His big-ticket issues?
Cracking down on litterbugs and helping those doing it tough in lockdowns.
"There should be more emphasis on mental-health programs and helping those in need with help lines and counsellors, and foodbanks for those who need it."
Lord Mayor Sally Capp said judges were impressed by Daniel's community spirit, research, smart ideas, enthusiasm and creativity.
'His Worship' holds the ceremonial title for a year – getting to rock mayoral robes and gold chains, march with competition finalists in the Moomba Parade, perform official and fun duties with Cr Capp and more!
Cr Capp announced finalist Joel Crothers as a Special Emissary on zero-net carbon emissions.
Joel, 12, who attends St Marks Primary School, Dingley Village, pitched the idea of cutting carbon emissions in efforts to reopen Melbourne from lockdowns.
Now in its ninth year, the Melbourne Day Committee-run competition aims to raise awareness about Melbourne and our city's incredible Aboriginal history and culture – and instil civic pride by highlighting our journey since being founded on 30 August 1835.
Congratulations to competition finalists:

Daniel Lan, 12, Northside Christian College, Bundoora.
Teacher: Christie Vaughn

Joel Crothers, 12, St Marks Primary School, Dingley Village.
Teacher: Andrea Harvey

Alexia Kritikides, 12, Loreto Mandeville Hall, Toorak.
Teacher: Elizabeth Blackie

Amelia Hemphill, 11, Genazzano FCJ College, Kew.
Teacher: Sue McNamara

Isla Carpenter, 11, Genazzano FCJ College, Kew.
Teacher: Sue McNamara

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What are the big issues for competition entrants?
On entrants' minds are environmental issues, city safety and the homeless, says Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker.
"Many called for mental health support for those struggling with Covid lockdowns," Campbell says.
"Others called for greater inclusivity and diversity, programs to boost Melburnians' physical fitness and more city-based family entertainment.
"Several wanted more Melbourne and Aboriginal history to be taught in schools, which brought delight to Melbourne Day Committee's office," he says.
What do they love about Melbourne?
Melbourne Day deputy chair Sue Stanley says entrants love the city's street vibe, community spirit, architecture, resilience and positivity in the face of Covid.
"They praised the variety of sport, theatre and arts offerings," Sue says.
"The Grade four, five and sixers (aged 9 to 13) clearly march on their stomachs, raving about the city's food culture," she says.
"And they wouldn't be true Melburnians without mentioning the weather, with one loving our city's 'five seasons in one day'."
Each finalist wins a prize pack, a framed certificate/trophy and other goodies.

"It's such an important program for helping people understand how the city works." — Lord Mayor Sally Capp


The judging panel:
Lord Mayor Sally Capp
Channel Nine newsreader Peter Hitchener
Radio 3AW presenter Denis Walter
Boon Wurrung senior cultural officer David Tournier
Dr Jo Clyne, History Teachers' Association of Victoria education manager
13cabs head of client services Simon Purssey
Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker.