LOCAL YOUTH SET TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL YOUTH WEEK

Three local organisations have been granted Bligh Government funding to highlight the achievements of young people during the National Youth Week celebrations in April.

The grants were announced this week by Communities and Youth Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr.

Thuringowa MP Craig Wallace welcomed the funding, saying the events would involve young people from across the region.

“These events aim to get young people involved as well as showcase their talents to the wider community,” Mr Wallace said.

Among 25 organisations across Queensland to receiving the funding windfall are:

·$3000 for the Youth Network NQ Incorporated to host the North Queensland regional battle-of-the-bands competition;

·$2674 for the Upper Ross PCYC to host “Swim, Climb, Ride and Rock – Push Yourself!” – a two-day event featuring rock-climbing, an indoor skateboarding competition, pool activities, a youth band event and more, and;

·$3000 for Youth Fashion Expressions Incorporated to go towards the $100,000 Opal Fashion Bash, providing young people with backstage insight into the fashion industry, designing, hairdressing and dancing. Workshops will be held on a range of topics, including self-confidence, body image and healthy living.

Ms Nelson-Carr, the local Member for Mundingburra, awarded a total of $90,000 in grants for activities being held to celebrate Youth Week between April 5 and 13 April.

“This year’s celebrations promise to be bigger and better than ever, with the addition of an online competition encouraging young Queenslanders right across the State to join in,” she said.

“It’s important our young people have an opportunity to promote their achievements and have a platform to raise issues of concern to them, both publicly and within their local communities.

“Our Shout. Share. Live. Unite. Online Competition is all about getting young people to share their ideas and opinions in the creative medium of their choice.”

Youth Week is a joint Commonwealth, State and local government initiative.

For more information on Youth Week activities throughout Queensland and the online competition, visit www.GENERATE.qld.gov.au or contact the Office of Youth on 1300 555 954.

Media Contact: Paul Childs, Craig Wallace’s office, on 0407 131 654.