A key group of local youth sector stakeholders set out to have conversations with 1,000 youth, aged 10 to 21, to find out how they feel about living in the Mackay region and what they would like to see change.
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, who was at Teen Shed Mackay earlier this week to launch the product of those conversations, the YOL1000 report (Youth Out Loud) – congratulated the project team on engaging with so many of our region’s young people.
“This tremendous report is the result of one of the most extensive, targeted engagement projects ever undertaken locally,” Mr Williamson said.
“It outlines the key things that we heard from young people and the key trends that have emerged from those conversations.
“Young people clearly told us that they value our beautiful natural environment and places and spaces, however, they also highlighted a few key things they feel are missing.
“Something they wanted more of was access to safe spaces to gather, outside the school and home environment, and entertainment options that are specifically for young people.”
Teen Shed is one of those safe spaces and, having recently moved to Mackay from the Sunshine Coast, Isabella Versaci joined to meet new people.
“I’ve made a lot of friends and met a lot of people with likeminded interests,” she said.
“It makes me get out of my comfort zone and I would definitely recommend it for other people.”
While Isabella wasn’t involved in YOL1000, she agreed that access to safe spaces was a high priority for her and her family.
“Teen Shed brings that safety and knowing that there’s an always an adult to make sure nothing happens,” she said.
Manager of Community Development at MADEC and YOL1000 member Karen Bonham said the report would spur some exciting initiatives in the youth community.
“What we also hope is that other organisations, services and businesses around the region will read the report and engage with YOL to support current and future initiatives in response to what we have heard from young people,” Ms Bonham said.
“This initiative is already encouraging local youth service providers and government to seek targeted solutions for young people.”
The YOL1000 report is available online at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/yol1000.
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, Isabella Versaci and Manager of Community Development at MADEC and YOL1000 member Karen Bonham. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
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