More than a dozen couples “debuted” in front of their loved ones with shopping strip Hargreaves Mall as their backdrop.

The event was an initiative of several community groups, including the street’s traders, police and council, designed to improve relationships between young people and their community. 

Austinn Colliver said debutantes and their partners had rehearsed rigorously for weeks and admitted to some performance anxiety.

“Everyone has a few nerves and jitters,” he said. 

The Bendigo Senior Secondary student, 17, said a debutante ball was still good fun for today’s youth.

“It’s not that it’s old fashioned, it’s just not talked about anymore,” the dapper teen said.

Also dressed to the nines was Bendigo police officer Bianca Cola, who participated in the evening’s festivities. 

She congratulated the young people on their dedication in the lead-up to the event. 

It was just one in a series of efforts from police and community groups to engage with the next generation. Other recent events for youth include a boxing program and the city’s first Blue Light Disco in a decade.

Mayor Margaret O’Rourke addressed the debutantes, telling them she was proud of their connection to community. 

“There are plenty of people in Bendigo who are really willing to support you,” she said.

“It’s something I’m sure you’ll remember always. It’s timeless.”