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Sydney (AFP)
In the race to find an Australian model that has shown hard work, courage and honesty over the past year, an Australian newspaper has decided that the only competitor in the running is a horse.
Noting a shortage of idols in the two-legged sports, political, cultural and academic worlds, the Daily Telegraph on Thursday named the thoroughbred champion Winx his "Australian of the Year".
"Did the candidate live according to Australian values of fair play and civility?" asked the newspaper, starting a long list of qualities required to earn the title.
The Sydney newspaper said the horse – which has won dozens of races and is expected to retire soon – was the only Australian to meet the winning criteria.
The honor has not been "granted lightly," the newspaper said.
This announcement comes the day before the annual awards ceremony, which took place Jan. 26 on the eve of the Australia Day, was named the Australian official of the year.
Among the eight finalists of 2019 – all humans – Richard Harris, who worked to save 12 Thai children imprisoned in a cave, the Paralympian Kurt Fearnley, medalist of many medals, and the social activist Bernadette Black.
Past winners include Nobel laureate scientists and Paul "Crocodile Dundee" Hogan.
© 2019 AFP
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