MILTON ACT AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR
Australia 's fastest skier and Canberra favourite, Michael Milton, has been chosen as ACT's Australian of the Year for 2007, ahead of the likes of Wallabies Captain, George Gregan.
Canberra born and bred, Milton accepted the award, and thanked his partner of five years, Penni Lewer, his parents and other members of his family who attended the awards.
"It's the first time in over a decade I have been in Australia at this time of year so it's great to be here and it's a wonderful honour. I feel so proud to be Australian and a Canberran. Australia Day 2007 will be my first in Australia for many years, my first with my new daughter Matilda and now it will be even more interesting," said Milton .
A big rugby union fan, Milton spoke to Gregan after the ceremony.
"He was great. He came up and congratulated me and we chatted for a while. I've met George before and have a lot of respect for him. I think if he had won I would almost have been as pleased," said Milton with a grin.
He and three other winners in different categories are now eligible for the respective national award, up against finalists from the other seven states and territories. The 2007 Australian of the Year Awards will be announced by the Prime Minister in Canberra on 25 January 2007.