Armed with a piece of chalk and a board shaped like a thought bubble, young Bendigonians shared suggestions for the betterment of their community.
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Some wanted more job opportunities, others wanted the City of Greater Bendigo to engage more young people.
There were opportunities to video record their ideas for council staff to reflect on when putting together a new youth strategy.
Secondary school students from throughout the municipality descended on the Bendigo Exhibition Centre on Wednesday for the Youth Summit.
Bendigo Mayor Rod Fyffe said their ideas would help shape the 2017-20 Greater Bendigo Youth Strategy.
The existing document was dated 2013 – 2016. Council expects the draft strategy to be prepared by early 2017.
“The Summit enables young people to have their say and raises awareness in the community about what they see as important to their lives,” Cr Fyffe said.
Marist College Bendigo student Matthew Ross welcomed the opportunity to provide feedback.
“It’s really good to have these event so people from Bendigo, especially young people, can have a say in their city,” he said.
Bendigo South East College student Billy Quirk wanted the city to provide more part-time jobs for young people.
Free public transport was Crusoe College student Ozzie Harwood’s idea.
“I believe we should have more advertisements directed to young people, enlightening them about the effects of drugs and alcohol,” Marist College Bendigo student Ethan Harrison said.
Felicity Dannock of Bendigo South East College thought it was important that Bendigo had more diverse events to celebrate different cultures and religions.
“If the council goes on social media, it will make it more accessible to youth,” Alyssa Lai of Bendigo South East College said.
“Also, having more places for youth to hang out.
“I know there’s an issue in Pall Mall with a bunch of youth being really rowdy – just providing that place for people to hang out will let them be themselves.”
Guest speakers included 3BO Bendigo breakfast show presenter Erin Ryan and former AFL player Jake Edwards.
Edwards used the opportunity to raise awareness of mental health and suicide prevention.
He urged the teens to learn from his experiences with depression and substance abuse and seek help at the earliest opportunity.
If you or someone you know is aged 5-25 years and in need of help, call the 24-hour Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.
Emma D'Agostino
Covering general news and Bendigo council.
Covering general news and Bendigo council.
