Young Leaders Leave Lasting Legacy For Mackay's Future

The outgoing Mackay Youth Council with Mayor Greg Williamson, councillors and council staff after completing an 18-month term representing young people across the region. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council  

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A group of passionate young leaders is leaving its mark on Mackay after completing an 18-month term dedicated to representing the voices of local youth and helping shape the region's future.

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The outgoing Mackay Youth Council recently concluded its elected term, having spent the past year and a half engaging with young people, community organisations, policymakers and local leaders on issues that matter most to the region's next generation.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson praised the group's achievements, highlighting the council's role in ensuring young people have a voice in local decision-making.

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“Mackay was the first local government in Australia to have an elected youth council as part of the Foundation for Young Australians Young Mayors program,” Mayor Williamson said.

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“It’s been wonderful to see these passionate young people grow and develop over the last 18 months and to have them advocate for youth priorities in the region.

“Their ‘Recreation, Opportunities and Wellbeing’ document is a tremendous insight into what young people see as the future for our region.”

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Throughout their term, the 12-member Youth Council participated in a range of community initiatives and events, including youth nights at local libraries, Rotary's Domestic and Family Violence awareness campaign, and community walk-and-talk sessions at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens.

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For outgoing Youth Councillor Amelia Webber, the experience provided an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution while connecting with like-minded young people.

“I wanted to be part of something that helps make a difference in our community and it’s been a wonderful opportunity to make new friends and speak on issues that affect the youth of Mackay,” Amelia said.

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“I’d definitely recommend that other young people think about nominating to be part of the next Youth Council.”

With the second Youth Council term now complete, attention is turning to the next generation of youth leaders, with nominations officially open for young people aged 11 to 17 who live or study within the Mackay Regional Council area.

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Candidates will have the opportunity to campaign through their schools and community networks before a polling week takes place in local schools in October.

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Mayor Williamson said the upcoming election would continue to strengthen youth representation across the region.

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“With the term of the second youth council now complete, we are excited to be able to support yet another election to deliver the youth of Mackay a voice, via a democratically elected youth council,” he said.

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For more information about the Mackay Youth Council and the upcoming election process, visit the Foundation for Young Australians' Young Mayors Mackay page.

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