From Hilltops Council – John Horton

Without healthy, well educated youth there can be no Hilltops growth, as such Hilltops Council places great importance on our youth.

In 2020, Council received NSW State funding for a Youth Engagement and Inclusion Officer under the Stronger Country Communities Fund. In addition, Council received State Government funding to deliver a series of events and programs for young people under the Youth Opportunities Program.

The aim of both the Youth Officer and the program is to increase the number of youth led and youth driven community activities throughout the Hilltops and to engage young people in projects which overcome barriers to participation in our community.

In late 2020, Council sought and received nominations from youth aged 12 to 24 years to form the Hilltops Youth Action Group. Now, this motivated and diverse group are already actioning a number of successful youth specific events across Hilltops.

Some of the events held to date include outdoor movie nights, a skate event at Boorowa, a Music, Art, Drama and Dance Youth Show and Game Time Games Day.

In addition, the Group was involved in Senior’s Week, a movie screening in the Southern Cross Cinema and on Monday, Bubble Soccer and Archery Wars were held in Harden.

On June 19 there is a free workshop for all Hilltops youth as there has been an overwhelming response to all previous workshops.

One of the most popular workshops is barista training and in addition the following are on offer on the 19th — First Aid Training, Oodie making, Cake Decorating, Repurposed Clothing Workshop and a Make Up Workshop.

So, our Hilltops Youth Action Group is a reality, doing great work and invite all youth to get involved!

- Councillor John Horton.

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• Local Council