In iso, be your mental health's hero

"Her Worship" Alicia Gec

Congratulations to Alicia Gec, 12, for winning the Melbourne Day competition.

The Penleigh Essendon Grammar student edged out four other finalists, chosen from a record number of entries.

She was "sworn in" as the little big boss of Melbourne at a judging ceremony, held online because of coronavirus restrictions instead of Melbourne Town Hall's historic council chamber.

Her 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 Lord Mayor Sally Capp and more!

"I'm so excited to help Melbourne to be the best we can," she said.

Her big-ticket policy is helping Melburnians cope with mental health while in iso.

'I love our diverse community that makes Melbourne one of the most liveable cities'

"We need to create alternative, creative fun ways to reconnect while we're socially distancing."

Her top tips to cope with lockdown?

• Stay active, exercise — don't ignore your physical health
• Stay connected, reach out — you're not alone
• Stay positive — you've got this.

"I love our diverse community that makes Melbourne one of the most liveable cities in the world and all its incredible food, people, sports and sights!"

Alicia has an eye on a law career and loves singing, dancing and acting.

Cr Capp said with the high calibre of finalists, the judges had a "very difficult decision".

"Alicia stood out for her knowledge, insights and understanding about mental health and well being.

"At the end of the day, it's about people, and you put people right at the centre of your responses."

Thank you to everyone who entered the competition, sponsored by 13cabs.

Congratulations to finalists:

• Alessia Rossello, 10, St Mary's Catholic Primary, Malvern East
• Chris Ji, 12, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Primary, Sunbury
• Gabrielle Kobayashi-Walsh, 12, Genazzano FCJ College, Kew

• Sophie Williams, 10, Stella Maris Catholic Primary, Point Cook.

Thank you to judges:

• Lord Mayor Sally Capp
• Channel Nine newsreader Peter Hitchener
• Radio 3AW presenter Denis Walter
• Uncle Andrew Gardiner, Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Elder
• 13cabs head of client services Simon Purssey
• Melbourne Day chairman Campbell Walker.

Thank you to everyone who entered. Thanks also to teachers and parents for encouraging students to enter.

Now in its eighth year, the competition aims to raise awareness about Melbourne and our city's Aboriginal history and culture — and instil civic pride by highlighting our journey since being founded 185 years ago on 30 August.

And the winner is... the moment Alicia Gec is announced Junior Mayor.

With thanks to