Bookworm Sadie is Young Citizen of the Year!
Sadie's 2018 wish for an everlasting supply of books helped her at a time when acute lymphoblastic leukaemia had turned her world upside down. Now eight years later, Sadie has won an award for the work she does as a Make-A-Wish Ambassador.
Words to inspire her community
Sadie’s wish for a never-ending supply of books has now got an unexpected new chapter.
The 16-year-old has been named the 2026 Barossa Council’s Young Citizen of the Year.
The award highlights Sadie’s efforts as a Make-A-Wish Ambassador.
Sadie is a passionate advocate for the Make-A-Wish Barossa Branch, speaking about her wish at countless functions including the Stars of Barossa fundraising event and Nuriootpa Netball Club Ladies’ Day.
She’s also spoken to her school about the impact of her 2018 wish.
“Honestly, I am pretty excited when I get to speak at an event about Make-A-Wish,” Sadie said.
“I just jump at every opportunity I'm offered because I enjoy it so much.”
*Picture courtesy Barossa Council
Sadie's life-changing wish
Sadie said she wanted to give back to Make-A-Wish, and not just because of the 500 books she has received as part of her wish.
“It wasn’t just even the wish itself. It wasn’t just the books, I think all of the Make-A-Wish experience has been definitely life-changing,” she said.
“I know I wouldn't be where I am today without Make-A-Wish.”
I think all of the Make-A-Wish experience has been definitely life-changing. I know I wouldn't be where I am today without Make-A-Wish.
Wish kid, Sadie
Proud of daughter 'giving back'
Melissa said it was a proud moment for the whole family (pictured) when Sadie accepted her award at a Barossa Council event on Australia Day.
“I’m really proud of that sense of giving back that she has and how good that makes her feel,” Melissa said.
“She feels empowered from a very powerless situation. She’s gone from having leukaemia to feeling empowered to have a voice and give back.”
Mel said it came as a surprise when she was told in December that Sadie had won the award.
Sadie said the award felt like recognition for her involvement in the Barossa community.
“It's just about making the community and your space a better place to be in for everyone,” she said.
“For me, it’s also working for something you genuinely care about which is Make-A-Wish.”
She (Sadie) feels empowered from a very powerless situation. She’s gone from having leukaemia to feeling empowered to have a voice and give back.
Mel, Sadie's mum
