General News
29 January, 2025
Council receives grants
Hindmarsh Shire Council has started the new year on a high note after receiving both Engage! and FReeZA grants from the Victorian Government.
The funding will allow young people across the shire to access a range of entertainment, training and leadership opportunities from this year until 2027.
Hindmarsh Shire youth councillors play an important role in leading the development and delivery of activities through the Engage! and FreeZA programs and council says it looks forward to welcoming the new leadership group soon.
One of the 2024 youth councillors, Lilly Williams, said the funding was "crucial" to the youth council being able to put on fun and exciting events for young people throughout the shire.
"Without it, these events that help us develop social skills, improve our mental health and get us out of our comfort zone will not happen," Ms Williams said.
The Engage! program empowers young people to codesign and deliver activities that build skills and confidence and encourage creativity, while the FReeZA funding allows council to continue to support music events, school activities and training opportunities for young people.
“Investing in youth in our rural communities is an investment in the future," Hindmarsh Shire mayor Ron Ismay said.
"This funding will continue to ensure that young people are given opportunities that improve mental health outcomes and best position them for bright futures, whether it be further education, completing a trade, working for a local business or taking leadership positions in local clubs and organisations."
Hindmarsh Shire Council expressed its gratitude to the Victorian Government for the funding and encouraged the community to follow Hindmarsh Shire Youth Council on social media to see how the programs progressed and how to get involved.
Young people with have ideas for FReeZA or Engage! are encouraged to contact council.
"You can reach on social media, via email or through the feedback form on council's website," Cr Ismay said.
For more information contact the youth and community wellbeing officer on 5391 4444 or youth@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.