HE’S talented, a bit shy and only 18 years old – but Australian Idol finalist Nathan Brake is the idol of Parramatta Council after becoming the city’s first Goodwill Ambassador.

Lord Mayor Paul Garrard launched his Goodwill Ambassador program, with Nathan named as the first, at Monday night’s council meeting.

Nathan, who lives at Guildford and attends the Performing Arts High School at Harris Park, travelled with his mother from the Australian Idol house in Mosman to accept the honour.

He bashfully thanked councillors as he accepted the framed certificate.

“I thank you for this. It is a privilege to be recognised and supported for something I love doing,” Nathan told councillors.

Cr Garrard explained that the Goodwill Ambassador, who could be entertainers, academics, sports people or business professionals, would put Parramatta on the world stage, focussing on the positives of the city.

In his lord mayoral minute, Cr Garrard said most major cities of the world had a goodwill ambassador who engendered goodwill between cities and the wider population through promotion of ideals.

“An Ambassador Goodwill Program can generate wealth for the city by bringing economic benefits,” Cr Garrard said. “By attracting leaders in their respective fields, they are invited to partner with us to bring the world to Parramatta, hence showcasing our city.

“My desire to focus on knowledge, research and innovation must be integral parts of our marketing strategy to attract investment and further support our tourism surge.”

Cr Garrard said Nathan was happy to be Parramatta’s first ambassador and he was confident the young entertainer would promote the city’s image. Cr Garrard told the Advertiser he became impressed with Nathan while watching him on Australian Idol, after his daughter had drawn his attention to the young singer from Guildford.

“I had known of the family and am impressed that a working class boy, who honed his singing skills with karaoke in pubs, has made it this far. I am sure he has a great future.”