A world of opportunity was presented to local school students at the Echuca Moama Youth Expo. Held at the Echuca Stadium on Thursday, 8 September, more than 35 stalls and exhibits displayed interests from social groups and sporting clubs, businesses and career pathways, health and social services and many other organisations.
Campaspe Shire Mayor Chrissy Weller said the expo had been a collaboration between Council, Campaspe Cohuna Local Learning and Employment Network and the participating schools.
"Together with St Joseph's College, Echuca College, River City Christian College, Echuca Twin Rivers Specialist School and Moama Anglican Grammar, we were able to create a fantastic event for Year 8 to 10 students.
"The expo provided a space for local organisations, community groups and clubs to present opportunities for adolescents to get involved in their community or to become part of a supportive group environment.
"Hobbies and interests such as soccer, theatre and martial arts were exhibited, as were groups to volunteer with such as the fire brigade, op shop and library.
"The students participated in the creation of this event, putting forward ideas for the exhibits and other activities.
"We value the opinion of our younger residents and will continue to involve them in all matters relating to youth programs."
Mayor Weller said the expo had a few underlying motives of significance.
"The expo also allowed us to demonstrate the range of support services available. While the students ventured to the sporting club activities or the arts tables, they were able to stop at stalls presented by alcohol and drug support groups, headspace, the neighbourhood houses, and many health and wellbeing services.
"This at least makes the students aware that help is out there if they need it."
The Echuca Moama Youth Expo was funded by the State Office of Youth's FReeZA program. This funding will deliver many activities and programs across the next three years.
FReeZA is a Victorian Government initiative that supports young Victorians to get involved in their community by planning and running drug, alcohol and smoke-free events for other young people.
