Bigger and Better School Holiday Program Wraps Up
Published on 12 July 2024
A major expansion of Council’s school holiday program has seen young people getting out and participating in a range of exciting activities this winter. The free activities were all organised by Council’s youth team with funding provided through the State Government’s Engage Program.
A snow day was one standout event that saw 28 young people head to Mt Buller for snowboarding and skiing lessons, tobogganing and a scenic lift ride on the Northside Express lift. It was a first-time snow experience for many, made possible by collaboration with Snow Play Tours, Buller Ski Lifts and Alpine Resorts Victoria.
Another highlight was the exhilarating experience at Winton Raceway, where young participants enjoyed fast laps in race cars alongside members of Mansfield-based HyUndies Race Team. This event was a huge success and received a lot of positive feedback. The day out also included a visit to the Benalla Aviation Museum.
“Chop n Chat” cooking classes continued over the holidays thanks to Mansfield Respond. The program pairs our young aspiring chefs with experienced cooks to explore different cuisines and cooking skills. Holiday sessions included making Sri Lankan dishes and making use of Australian native ingredients during NAIDOC Week.
Karen Pirie of MAD Potters conducted a popular workshop at the Mansfield Youth Centre. The young participants created clay sculptures then came together to celebrate their achievements with a mock gallery opening.
During NAIDOC Week the Youth Centre also hosted workshops with Taungurung artists Isobel Morphy Walsh and Iluka Sax-Williams, focusing on traditional weaving techniques and Pyrography (wood and skin burning art). These sessions provided insights into First Nations culture and arts for over 60 attendees.
Besides the event programme, the Youth Centre opened its doors for young people to engage in recreational activities including board, video and card games, computer coding and sports on the half basketball court.
Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said the program was a big success in helping young people connect and be active.
“The wellbeing of our community is a high priority for this Council, and that includes young people too,” he said.
“Our youth team has done a great job putting together a large program of exciting activities and opportunities for young people to get involved and try new things.
“We’re grateful to all the community groups and businesses that enabled this program, and we look forward to collaborating again,” Cr Rabie said.
The Youth Centre will be open as normal again from 15 July, providing a range of after-school activities for young people from Monday to Thursday, 3pm – 5.30pm. For more on upcoming events, training opportunities and programs, follow “Mansfield Shire Youth” on Facebook and Instagram.