2016 Regional Youth Services Awards MONDAY 27 JUNE 2016 • 6:00PM – 9:00PM • MEREWETHER SURFHOUSE

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the people of the Awabakal language nation as the custodians of this land that our

event is convened on, and thank the Awabakal people for allowing this event to take place. RYDON would

like to pay respect to the ongoing relationships between the traditional custodians and the spiritual and

cultural practices of the local area

We acknowledge the custodians of the many lands that attendees come from and pay our respect to the

elders of both past and present who hold the collective knowledge of Aboriginal Australia.

ORDER OF EVENTS

6:00PM Pre-Awards Networking and Entertainment

6:15PM Opening Address

Youth Event of the Year Award

6:30PM Dinner and Entertainment

7:00PM Youth Friendly Business of the Year Award

Youth Sector Worker of the Year Award

7:30PM Dessert and Entertainment

8:00PM Aboriginal Art Auction

Young Person of the Year Award

8:30PM Group Photos

9:00PM Close of Regional Youth Services Awards Ceremony

YOUTH EVENT OF THE YEAR

NOMINEES

Open Space Pilot Program

Lake Macquarie Youth Advisory Council + consortium including Charlestown Square Shopping Centre, Lake Macquarie City

Council, NSW Police, Eastlake Youth Centre and The Place Charlestown Community Centre

The Happiness Mission- Community programs

Carly Saunders and Tresne Middleton

Hunter Seekers Scavenger Hunt

Ella Reed & Newcastle Museum

Street Art Workshop- part of Reading Rocks Program

Upper Hunter Community Services Inc, Muswellbrook, True Colourz & Muswellbrook PCYC

Hunter Schools Rock Off

Cessnock Youth Entertainment Committee

Sun Street Festival

A committee made up of local youth agencies, TAFE students, young people and volunteers

YOUTH EVENT: NOMINEES Open Space Pilot Program

Organiser(s): Lake Macquarie Youth Advisory Council + consortium including

Charlestown Square Shopping Centre, Lake Macquarie City Council, NSW Police, Eastlake

Youth Centre and The Place Charlestown Community Centre

Open Space (pilot program) was implemented over 12 months during 2015. The program

was the brain-child of the Lake Macquarie Youth Advisory Council to assist a consortium of

organisations to address anti-social behaviour at Charlestown Square on a Thursday eve-

nings. The youth council proposed and delivered a series of open air musical, light / audio

performances in the lower southern piazza area at Charlestown Square. The program in-

cluded performances by talented young people in public spaces to assist with creating a

positive community environment which is safe and enjoyable for all members of the com-

munity. Thereby overcoming the negative reputation and 'fear of crime' in these public

spaces. The success of the pilot program has led to Charlestown Square taking on responsi-

bility for the organisation and resourcing of the program going forward.

The Happiness Mission- Community programs

Organiser(s): Carly Saunders and Tresne Middleton

The Happiness Mission programs have been conducted in local businesses, organisations,

schools and in the community.

Some of their work includes working with youth in businesses, building confidence in

young employees, particularly the females. Carly and Tresne were an inspiration in the

offices and have built teamwork, wellbeing and a positive culture into the environment.

Carly and Tresne not only believe what they present, but also model their happiness in an

engaging and interactive way.

Carly and Tresne hosted the charity ball for SIDS and Kids voluntarily, and have proven

themselves to be kind and generous. Their school programs enrich the lives of young peo-

ple by boosted their self confidence and self esteem and encourage students of all ages to

practice positive actions in their lives. Young people who have attended the programs

feedback that they take so much of what they have learnt on board.

Carly and Tresne attended Dungog High School and presented to our prospective Year 7

students to support their transition to High School as well as to our current students who

were undergoing unusually high anxiety and other mental health issues. The program pre-

sented supported all students at the appropriate level and gave students a positive focus.

Year 7 students did not have any of the anxiety issues experienced in prior years; and the

school had 98% participation in our Year 7 Camp which is usually closer 70%.

YOUTH EVENT: NOMINEES Hunter Seekers Scavenger Hunt

Organiser(s): Ella Reed & Newcastle Museum

Hunter Seekers has been hosted twice with an amazing turn out on the first occasion of

around 60 people wanting to participate to 350 people joining in on the second occasion.

The second time around was focused on the theme of 'Diversity'. The participants were

encouraged to find all the items in the Museum that reflect Newcastle's diverse history

and today.

The Newcastle Museum has been proactive in offering events and programs targeted at

young people since the closure of the Loft which is where the initial idea of Hunter Seekers

came from.

What was originally a very small idea turned into a very big, inclusive event.

Street Art Workshop- part of Reading Rocks Program

Organiser(s): Upper Hunter Community Services Inc, Muswellbrook, True Colourz & Mus-

wellbrook PCYC

Upper Hunter Community Services initiated the Street Art workshop as a part of the BHP

Billiton Mt Arthur Coal Reading Rocks Program- encouraging and engaging with the com-

munity in all forms of literacy. The initiation of this project came from an identified need

within the community of education and awareness surrounding the legalities and safety

issues concerning graffiti across the local community. True Colourz facilitated the hands on

workshop which was run over two days, the young people engaged in education and legis-

lation surrounding street art, skills and safety & techniques surrounding street art. The

group brainstormed and designed a street art mural and came up with key words with a

positive message to go on a wall at the PCYC, which was generously donated by them. The

artwork “Fitness & Respect" was then produced on the wall by the young people using

techniques that they had learnt from the workshop. The young people were extremely

proud of their work and the wall is still on display at the PCYC for the community to view.

The young people were committed to this project and were enthusiastic in their contribu-

tions throughout the workshop and learnt many different aspects of street art.

YOUTH EVENT: NOMINEES Hunter Schools Rock Off

Organiser(s): Cessnock Youth Entertainment Committee

Hunter Schools Rock Off was held on the 29th of November 2015 at Sun Street Studios. It

is an annual event in which high school bands from across the Hunter region have the op-

portunity to play in a professional setting, with professional sound and lighting for the cov-

eted title. However this competition does not only provide an amazing opportunity for

young musicians to receive encouraging critique and also to hone their skills , although it

undeniably does just that, but it also creates a multitude of other opportunities for young

people to develop a range of skills. The CYEC gain valuable experience in organizing an

event from start to finish. From applying for funding (this event has been funded by Indent

for the past 5 years - but the CYEC have been successfully securing Indent funding for the

past 11 years due to their highly respected reputation. They also took out Indents "Best

Team Award in 2012) to planning and running the event on the day. Just some (there are

too many to mention) of the opportunities this event creates is event planning and man-

agement, sound experience, team work as well as the internal rewards of contributing to

their community. The event also creates a opportunity for a budding young photographer

to shot a live event. This year Caitlin Ivan documented the event in her very own artistic

photography style and a number of the musicians have since used the photos to promote

their bands.

Lastly the previous year’s first place winner is invited back to be the headline act!

Sun Street Festival

Organiser(s): A committee made up of local youth agencies, TAFE students, young people

and volunteers

Sun Street Festival was held during Youth Week in April 2016. The Festival involved young

people, youth services, wider community organisations and local businesses. It provided a

recreational/entertainment that was accessible to all young people and their families. The

festival offered something for everyone - music, art, culture, food, photography and sport.

The entire festival had a very fun and welcoming vibe! It felt like a real celebration of

young people and their talents! The real success of the festival comes down to the volume

of young people that were involved in the planning, implementation and evaluation. It was

built from the ground up by young people and that was evident in the engagement at the

festival. It’s rare to see one person who is not smiling and feeling totally at ease at this

event. Youth that would usually shy away from public events and group excursions feel at

ease and equal as all guards are let down and young and interact to enjoy a fabulous night.

YOUTH FRIENDLY BUSINESS

NOMINEES

East Cessnock Bowling Club

The Sebel Kirkton Park

YOUTH FRIENDLY BUSINESS: FINALISTS East Cessnock Bowling Club

This business has sponsored 3 Youth and Family events in the last year and is always will-

ing to assist when asked. They have provided both financial and in kind support which has

been invaluable in providing events for Youth and Families in our community.

The Sebel Kirkton Park

The Sebel continually support local high schools. They not only take on staff, actively seek-

ing junior staff from local schools to give them opportunities but they are also actively in-

volved in a range of school programs. The Sebel have been a part of Kurri Kurri High

School’s High Impact Day for Year 10 students for 4 years. They subsidise the venue as well

as provide professional expertise from their HR team who runs a workshop on First Im-

pressions and work place etiquette. They have also been involved with Careers events and

the Business Breakfast showing ongoing support for young people and their future oppor-

tunities.

YOUTH SECTOR WORKER

NOMINEES

Cessnock

Stacy Jacobs- Cessnock High School

Will Doran- Cessnock Youth Centre and Outreach Service

Belinda Wells- Alesco Senior College Cessnock

Emily Cant- The Reach Foundation

Jennifer Jackson- Youth of the Streets

Lake Macquarie

Jenny Pilgrim- Eastlakes Youth Service

Geraldine Moran- Centre for Hope

Joanne Jones- Hunter Sports High School

Kylie Fowkes- Hunter Sports High School

Richard De Martin- Northlakes Youth Service

Roxanne Rigg- Allambi Care Specialist Homelessness Service

Maitland/ Dungog

Natasha Anderson- Hunter New England Health

Jillian Heard- Samaritans Foundation -Lower Hunter Case Work

Mary-Kate Ferguson- Catholic Care Social Services

Sarah U'Brien- Dungog Shire Community Centre

Felicity Scott- headspace Maitland

Megan Beath- The Benevolent Society- Family Referral Service

Justin Ridgeway- Youth Express- Indigenous Advancement Strategy

Hayley Dibley- Dungog High School

Laura Hanlon- headspace Maitland

YOUTH SECTOR WORKER

NOMINEES

Newcastle

Nathan Towney- Newcastle High School

Amy King- Newcastle High School

Amy Barnes- Alesco Senior College

Amy Clark- Wesley Mission - Young Health Minds Project

Greg Clegg- Juvenile Justice

Dale Garbutt- Multicultural Neighbourhood Centre

Hayley Bateman- Northern Settlement Services

Amber Stewart- Newcastle City Council

Adrian Vince- Oasis, Salvation Army Hamilton

Port Stephens

Mere Johnson- WEA Hunter / Alesco Senior College

Lisa Papassavas- Port Stephens PCYC Volunteer

Matt Breen- Port Stephens Family & Neighbourhood Service

Upper Hunter

Brendan Willis- True Colourz

Sam Higgins- Singleton Youth Venue

Clarinda Masters- Ungooroo Aboriginal Corporation

YOUTH SECTOR WORKER: FINALISTS Cessnock

Belinda Wells– Alesco Senior College

Belinda is the Youth Support Worker for Alesco Senior College Cessnock. She has played a

fundamental role in supporting “at risk" and vulnerable students to engage socially, emo-

tionally and educationally in their school environment. Belinda has a humble nature and

yet is passionate about changing the lives of young people in her community through in-

volvement in various community and Youth Support groups. She tirelessly attends forums

and youth events even outside of her required role and Work Hours and expects nothing

in return. She is highly respected amongst our students and takes every opportunity to

assist academically in the classroom whenever she can. Belinda takes a "people first" ap-

proach to her role and her integrity is evident to students, colleagues and those that she

interacts with. She has played a vital role in establishing Alesco senior College from its in-

ception and in our current period of growth - often acting outside of her role in the simple

yet important aspects in the daily running of a small campus.

Cessnock

Stacy Jacobs– Cessnock High School

Stacy works as the Student Support Officer at Cessnock High School. Stacy works with stu-

dents one on one and in groups as well as providing a safe space within the school that

anyone can visit. Stacy's main accomplishment is that of connection. Stacy makes a con-

nection with students as they arrive at the school and peer matches them with appropri-

ate groups of friends who have similar interests. Stacy then works with students who are

facing some kind of wellbeing issue to gain assistance whether that be within the school

environment or externally. Stacy works with young people to ensure that they are in-

formed about the connections and opportunities that are available whilst they are attend-

ing school and then into the community. Stacy receives visitors from students from previ-

ous years who still drop in to room 24 and the safe place that she provides.

Stacy is amazing in the communication skills that she shows and her ability to create a long

standing rapport in an environment that is so busy. Stacy’s long term commitment to the

students daily, weekly, monthly and yearly needs in all areas shows how much she cares

about these students. Stacy is creating high expectation relationships with all students at

Cessnock High School.

YOUTH SECTOR WORKER: FINALISTS Cessnock

Emily Cant– Reach Foundation

Emily Cant has worked in many and varied roles around the Hunter for the past 7 years. A

social work graduate and all round advocate of young people, Emily thrives in every posi-

tion she takes up. The passion and care is evident in her work and she is definitely some-

one who works hard to ensure the best outcomes for young people in every setting that I

have seen her work in. She is the type of worker you can 100% rely to show up and get the

job done, no matter what she is involved in. Emily Cant is the Hunter Region Program Man-

ager for The Reach Foundation. Emily has worked tirelessly to build The Reach Foundations

profile in the Hunter/Newcastle region so that the maximum amount of youth could re-

ceive workshops and be as empowered as possible to live the lives they dream of. She has

acted as a true mentor to young generations of crew who are becoming a part of the

Reach Foundation and has also worked with a range of teachers and youth workers to fur-

ther the impact of Reach's work with young people. She is a truly home-grown hero from

the Cessnock area. Young people have self-reported many very positive changes in their

lives including improved relationships with family, improved social connection, increased

self-esteem from sharing their truths in a supportive environment, which resulted in feel-

ing more accepted, improved school attendance and retention, achieving personal goals,

re-authoring their very own lives and this was only at the beginning of their journeys.

Lake Macquarie

Geraldine Moran– Centre for Hope

Five years ago Geraldine Moran saw a need to help young people who are otherwise not

supported by government services. These young people are struggling from the impacts of

their families’ financial pressures, school pressure or bullying, mental illness, abuse or drug

and alcohol related issues.

Geraldine went on to establish the not-for-profit organisation Centre for Hope in 2011,

with the aim of assisting young persons in the 6 to 18 year old age group, both Indigenous

and non-Indigenous, who are considered to be in need of intervention to improve their

educational and life outcomes. Centre for Hope has gone on to create several high-impact

programs such as Wheels for Hope and the Drop in Centre, both located at Lake Macquar-

ie Shopping Centre, a Homework Centre at Windale Library and a program called Sup-

porting Families. Student mentoring is another one of their highly successful programs.

Centre for Hope is unique as it provides each young person with a coach and mentor. Hav-

ing two people dedicated to each young person’s wellbeing, and listing without prejudice,

means children can express themselves, be heard and be connected with the right services

and support. Some of the children, who were previously mentored, have now become

mentors.

Geraldine is committed to all the children and people she works with. She is making a gen-

uine different in so many people’s lives, and their approach and attitude to life.

YOUTH SECTOR WORKER: FINALISTS Lake Macquarie

Roxanne Rigg– Allambi Care Specialist Homelessness Service

Roxanne is motivated by her passion to support young people to realise their full potential.

Roxanne is innovative, flexible, creative and resilient. Roxanne continually shows dedica-

tion, commitment and hard work to improving the young people she works with and has

been a strong advocate not only for the young people she works with but for young people

in general. Roxanne encourages the young people she works with to become empow-

ered, develop and change their current live situation, so they can become assets not only

to themselves but to their community as a whole. Roxanne is always looking to collabo-

rate with other organisations and to improve the sector. Roxanne has established sustain-

able partnerships that benefit the young people within the program she works in, and con-

tinually works on building and strengthening these partnerships. Roxanne is always more

than willing to share her resources for the benefit of community, young people and other

services.

Lake Macquarie

Richard De Martin– Northlakes Youth Service

Richard De Martin is currently working as the Northlakes Youth Services project worker as

well as casual teaching Certificate 4 in Youth Work for Hunter TAFE.

Richard is a dedicated youth worker who is open to collaboration & partnership as a way

to achieve great outcomes for young people. Some of Richard's recent project work in-

cludes coordinating the highly successful Soapbox Music Production project in 2015 which

worked closely with youth workers, TAFE placement students and young people to create

a unique and positive creative environment for at-risk young men. The project had excel-

lent outcomes including increased social cohesion, production and recording of a diverse

range of music and regular live performance outcomes in community settings.

Richard also facilitated the creation of a youth community garden space at Northlakes

Youth Services as part of his "Mind The Soil" initiative and is involved in many group work

programs in high schools. Richard makes valuable contributions to the Lake Macquarie

Youth Interagency & Network of Practice.

YOUTH SECTOR WORKER: FINALISTS Maitland/ Dungog

Felicity Scott– headspace Maitland

Felicity has worked locally as a youth and family counsellor in both an NGO and private

practice for many years. She is particularly passionate about advocacy and achieving posi-

tive change for marginalised young people and their families. Felicity has been in the role

of headspace manager since October last year, as well as maintaining a small client load

and continuing her private practice. In her managerial position Felicity supports front line

workers in both clinical and non-clinical roles to deliver a high quality service from a

strengths based, future focused perspective. Felicity takes an open-minded and thoughtful

approach to her tasks which results in planning and decision making that proves to

strengthen the service. She has shown herself to be compassionate and respectful to both

workers and staff alike and her enthusiasm for supporting those around her is contagious!

Felicity acts as a strong role model for all of those who have contact with her; this is evi-

denced by her hard working and optimistic approach taken on any task. She is fun-loving

and creative and loves to celebrate each staff member, their roles, successes and contribu-

tions routinely. For many years Felicity has successfully been supporting young people and

their families to navigate their way through difficult times. Since being in her new role, she

has effectively supported and mentored myself and many others to continue to provide

professional and caring services so that those we support are enabled to participate fully

in community and life.

Maitland/ Dungog

Justin Ridgeway- Youth Express- Indigenous Advancement Strategy

Justin has been passionate about inspiring young people to reach their potential for many

years. A proud Worrimi man, Justin has been in the NSW Police Force, and played many

roles in community and now works for Youth Express. Justin covers a massive area that

extends right into Central NSW, involving thousands of young people. Justin surpassed his

KPI's for the amount of young people, programs and areas he needed to cover- when the

year was only half way through. And regardless of how busy Justin is and how many pro-

grams he is running, he approaches every single young person with respect, humility and a

genuine care for them. Justin has inspired local young people to connect with their culture,

and engaged with them with stories. Justin uses his skills and knowledge of culture, art and

storytelling to connect with young people. Justin is always super keen to be involved in

youth events, and at the local Maitland Youth Interagency, Justin always contributes his

knowledge to enhance 'best practice' work with young people.

YOUTH SECTOR WORKER: FINALISTS Maitland/ Dungog

Hayley Dibley– Dungog High School

Hayley Dibley has only recently started in the role of Head Teacher Welfare but she is has

already made a huge impact on the school community and the Dungog community as a

whole. Hayley previously worked on the Northern Beaches of Sydney and was involved in a

large evidence-based partnership project called the 'Northern Beaches Project'. Hayley has

brought incredible passion and ideas to continue the work in Dungog. The project will be a

ground breaking early intervention program which connects schools and community ser-

vices together to identify young people who are at high-risk. This project has been identi-

fied as an essential way to address growing concerns with young people's mental health,

wellbeing, and trauma associated with the 2015 floods. Since started at the school, Hayley

has consulted with local service providers, achieved permission from the school, and part-

nered with agencies to start the partnership project. Already, Hayley has engaged the

'Teenage Expo' to provide a show to the whole school, educated teachers and community

members with a few various LifeLine trainings, and has built great relationships with stu-

dents. A young person even attended the Youth Interagency as a result of Hayley's input

and support. Hayley continues to impress local youth services, as well as providing high

quality support to young people in the area.

Newcastle

Amy King– Newcastle High School

Amy is an all-round amazing individual who has worked with young people for over ten

years. She has a background in innovative group facilitation programs linking in with

schools to teaching young people the importance of resilience and positive self-esteem.

Amy has infused these skills into her current role as Student Support Officer at Newcastle

High School.

Amy is very passionate and driven and has independently organised numerous events at

her school focusing on a range of issues from anti-bullying to Harmony day activities. Amy

consistently runs group programs that reach a wide range of students and supports stu-

dents in an individual capacity as well. Amy has developed invaluable links with many com-

munity organisations and has facilitated their engagement in the school culture.

Amy is extremely innovating in the delivery of her services, always looking at how things

can be improved or changed and thinking outside the box to develop new and exciting

connections with young people.

Amy is a truly beautiful person who brings out the best in those around her. Amy always

takes time to support others above and beyond the requirements of her role, without any

expectation of praise, she has a unique vibrancy that deserves to be recognised!

YOUTH SECTOR WORKER: FINALISTS Newcastle

Hayley Bateman– Northern Settlement Services

Hayley Bateman works as a family support case worker for Northern Settlement Services,

mainly with refugee & humanitarian settlement families and young people. Whilst her role

is mainly focused on supporting parents and families holistically, she inevitably works

closely with young people, some of whom are in Australia unaccompanied by their par-

ents.

Hayley has done outstanding work in the last 2 years in supporting young Afghani women

in a variety of ways including: coordinating swimming lessons for young women in part-

nership with the Department of Sport & Recreation; facilitating a Multicultural Girls Youth

Group at Jesmond Neighbourhood Centre in collaboration with emerging Afghani youth

leaders; supporting Afghani women in running their own community dance gatherings ;

supporting young Afghani women to run henna painting stalls at community events ; and

assisting other Multicultural youth workers to more effectively engage young women

from CALD backgrounds in activities and events including youth week and refugee week

sports activities.

Newcastle

Amber Stewart– Newcastle City Council

Amber has worked tirelessly in supporting and facilitating the Newcastle Youth Council

(NYC). Facilitating a group of passionate young people is one thing, but also organising

hugely successful events, initiatives, research and competitions in conjunction with the

NYC is something else. Amber works fulltime wearing several hats but manages to be an

absolute amazing professional and personal support for all the young people in NYC. In her

(limited) spare time, Amber has also joined Youth Frontiers to continue to work closely

with young people and support all their passions.

YOUTH SECTOR WORKER: FINALISTS Port Stephens

Matt Breen- Port Stephens Family & Neighbourhood Service

Matt has been developing and delivering the program at “the Deck” Youth venue and he

has established the identity of the Deck over the past 7-8 years. Although he works as part

of a larger team, Matt has been that consistent figure at the Deck and a lot of young peo-

ple recognise and identify with Matt. Matt loves Drumbeat and has brought creative ap-

proaches to Youth Work to Raymond Terrace. Matt has worked with the team to tackle

youth homelessness over the past few years.

Port Stephens

Mere Johnson- WEA Hunter / Alesco Senior College

Mere has worked in the Port Stephens area for nearly 10 years, and now supports the stu-

dents at Alesco Senior College Raymond Terrace in her role as Youth and Community Liai-

son Officer.

She is very passionate about the welfare of our young people, helping them overcome the

day-to-day crises and difficulties that they are faced with. She has an amazing and innate

ability to see the true potential in all our young people, and has made a significant contri-

bution to their well-being, and the school.

Mere is an essential member of the Alesco team, and a highly-valued member of the Port

Stephens community.

YOUTH SECTOR WORKER: FINALISTS Port Stephens

Lisa Papassavas- Port Stephens PCYC Volunteer

Lisa is a volunteer who runs a music program at Port Stephens PCYC. She has worked with

a team to transform some old dormitory’s to create a ‘music space’ at the PCYC. Lisa has

brought with her a good team of young volunteers to the program, as young people see

her as a young, friendly face. The program is in its early days but she is volunteering her

time to set it up properly. Lisa is serious about getting into Youth Work and left a hospitali-

ty job in order to dedicate herself to working in the sector.

Upper Hunter

Clarinda Masters– Ungooroo Aboriginal Corporation

Clarinda has a holistic approach to working with young people, and is very quick to re-

spond and has always followed through with referrals. Clarinda covers quite a large area in

the Upper Hunter and offers outreach. She has shown herself to be a supportive advocate

for young people and has shown some great successes in gaining accommodation and on-

going support for young people. It is rare you get that continued commitment from a ser-

vice. Clarinda goes above and beyond, and an example of this was with a particular young

person who needed assistance at Christmas. Clarinda became aware that the young per-

son was experiencing family breakdown and Clarinda arranged to call in and see the young

person so they wouldn’t be alone at Christmas. Clarinda has great passion and deserves

recognition for a job well done.

YOUTH SECTOR WORKER: FINALISTS Upper Hunter

Sam Higgins– Singleton Youth Venue

Sam Higgins works at Singleton Council and is based out of the Youth Venue. Sam is cur-

rently involved in a project where the needs of young people in Singleton High are being

‘mapped’. Sam is really good at bringing people together and this is exactly what he did on

this occasion. Sam ensured the right people were in the room to discuss creating a survey.

Sam then ran this survey past the ‘Youth Action Team’ which is a youth consultative com-

mittee that Sam coordinates. This survey has been disseminated to years 7-11 and the

young people from the Youth Action Team will continue to be involved in collating the da-

ta from the survey. Sam is passionate about LoveBites and has been involved in the Hunter

LoveBites Steering Committee to ensure best practice in the program. Sam has been an

advocate in providing feedback about LoveBites, always aiming to make the program more

inclusive. Sam has been instrumental in bringing innovative ideas to the table about ways

to connect better with young people and the community with the program. Sam has

shown his generosity time and time again by assisting with programs and new ideas. Sam

is also involved in the LIFT program- an acronym for Learning, Inspiration, Friendship and

Trust. Sam discovered the program when he decided to take up the challenge of learning

to fly. The LIFT program offers tailored and practical aviation based programs that teach

risk management and decision making life skills while building self-esteem. Sam has a real-

ly good understanding of the area and is a ‘go to’ person for information on local young

people, priorities and services.

Upper Hunter

Brendan Willis- True Colourz

Since coming to Upper Hunter, Brendan has being around a lot of youth events from Cine-

ma Under The Stars, Art Workshop at the PCYC, National Disability Day at Lake Liddel,

Skate Clinic at the Aberdeen Skatepark, Harmony Day and laser tag at Scone. He also

works at Merriwa Youth Centre every Friday and the Scone Youth Centre a few days a

month.

Brendan has overcome adversity to become the person he is today, and is focused on em-

powering young people to break the cycle and become all that you want to be. His enthu-

siasm for life and engaging persona is infectious to all he meets. Brendan has been nomi-

nated and won RYDON awards previously and has also been featured in magazines, news-

papers and on various radio programs for his work with youth. Brendan was also a finalist

in the Brass Blokes Award. He dedicates all his time to empowering young people through

his business True Colourz with his original and engaging youth focused programs. Brendan

is currently working to support Aboriginal young people at Singleton Heights Public School

and does this on top of caring for and nurturing his own 5 children.

YOUNG PERSON OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

Cessnock

Bel Wells

Adam Robinson

Aiden Harvey

Andrew West

Ben Sams

Georgia and Sophie Cunningham

Itchimel Elhomsi

Jessica Dowler

Katherine Kenndy

Mel Elhomsi

Phoebe Coen

Taylor Herbert

Lake Macquarie

The crew from The Bright Minds Project. Jack Antcliff, Gemma Morgan, Isobel Whitehead, Olivia Stanley, Roger Ly, Reid McManus

Iona McNab

Samantha O'Toole & Siobhan O'Toole

Jesse Evans

Maitland/ Dungog

Bronte Taylor

Jacob Harris

Ben Fellowes

Lily Sanders

headspace Maitland Youth Reference Group

Natasha Selkrig

YOUNG PERSON OF THE YEAR

NOMINEES

Newcastle

Madeline Grace Spinks

Monique Rice Gersbach

Bailey Clarke

Karla Jacob

Rachel Saidi

Ella Reed

Jacob Gamble

Abby Butler

Rayden Hobson

Port Stephens

Kaylie Newell

Tabatha Tyne

Upper Hunter

Fiona Stalker

Samantha Butler

Lauren Howard-Hickey

YOUNG PERSON OF THE YEAR: FINALISTS Cessnock

Adam Robinson

Adam is an exceptional young man who is the captain of Cessnock High School. Adam has

worked as a youth ambassador for two years. Adam is the Company Commander at 234

Army Cadet Unit who is passionate about supporting other young cadets as a mentor. Has

been nominated as an Officer Entry Candidate in the Australian Defence Force Class 1 (1 of

5%) and is the Cadet Of The Year for 2 years. He was 1 of the 20 Hunter Valley students

that won an all payed for trip to Gallipoli for the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing.

Adam completed Work Experience at the Maitland Mercury, Singleton Army Base and The

Australian War Memorial, and is currently completing his HSC.

Adam is a strong leader who supports students of all backgrounds.

Adam is a future leader for not only Cessnock area but also the Army in his chosen profes-

sion.

Cessnock

Jessica Dowler

Jess has been an active member of the Cessnock Youth Entertainment Committee for

many years. In the past few years she has stepped up to take on more responsibility within

the committee and sharing her knowledge and skills with the younger members of the

committee.

The Cessnock Youth Entertainment Committee were successful in a Youth Opportunities

grant to run a youth-led project focused on family and domestic violence in the Cessnock

area. This project is about young people speaking out about how this issue affects not only

their community, but their lives. Jess was successful in her application and interview to be

the Project Champion for this initiative for 2016. She has commenced in this role and

brings not only a lot of enthusiasm and passion as a young person who has been directly

affected by this issue but also as an indigenous young person who wants to do what she

can to get this message out to her own culture.

Last year Jess decided she would like to work in the sector and enrolled in a Diploma of

Community Services. She is currently studying this course alongside working in the role of

Project Champion for "Drop The Beat".

YOUNG PERSON OF THE YEAR: FINALISTS Cessnock

Georgia & Sophie Cunningham

Georgie and Sophie Cunningham are sisters. They were typical sisters who fought. IHowev-

er what they have grown to be is quite extraordinary... Sophie and Georgia's mum, Carol,

was diagnosed with a brain tumour a few years back and has had to undergo a number of

invasive medical procedures to remove it and to keep her well. It would seem that through

this adversity Georgia and Sophie learned the value in sisterhood. They are as close as

close can be. However their many gifts and talents do not stop there. Georgia a talented

singer and guitar player has been busy honing her talent. While her sister Sophie had been

learning to play the guitar has really hit her stride when she swap to the bass and they

formed the duo "The Perks" and went on to win the Encouragement Award in Hunter

School Rock Off followed by taking out second place in the Hunter Valley Youth Week tal-

ent competition. The sisters are not just commitment to each other and their music they

also have a strong social conscious and have participated and shared their many talents

with the community this year. Both Georgia and Sophie have attended Youth Week capaci-

ty building workshops, Drop the Beat Workshops, volunteered at Groovin' the Moo and

supported the Cessnock Youth Entertainment Committee. The pair have been touched by

hardship but have used this to hone their social conscious. They are both passionate and

vocal about their Indigenous heritage, respectful relationships and domestic violence, re-

authoring dialogue around suicide and the environment. As each other biggest supporters

there isn’t much they couldn’t do with each other by their side.

Lake Macquarie

The crew from The Bright Minds Project- Jack Antcliff, Gemma Morgan, Isobel White-

head, Olivia Stanley, Roger Ly, Reid McManus

Over the past twelve months the team from the Bright Minds Project have created a range

of resources which have changed the landscape of Mental Health support in Lake Mac-

quarie. Not only have they developed tools for young people, they have created resources

for teachers and parents to ensure the flow of information about Mental Health is present

in everyday life. The team have worked together to create posters, stress balls, Bus Shelter

advertisements, ongoing social media promotions, flyers, magnets and wristbands, all de-

picting the message that 'Its ok to talk' and that 'Reaching out is a sign of strength'. They

also ran a Youth Mental Health Forum, a community Splash Down Stress Free event on

Australia Day and a presentation to over 150 students at a local high school. They have

connected with mental health professionals, youth workers and services to create a net-

work from which to draw the information from to better support young people in Lake

Macquarie. Their work was so inspiring that the Bright Minds crew were chosen to present

their work at a Showcase for the Office of the Advocate for Children and Young People.

Their material, whilst designed for Lake Macquarie, has since been spread all over the

Hunter and as far as Shellharbour and the Eurobiddala coast.

YOUNG PERSON OF THE YEAR: FINALISTS Lake Macquarie

Samantha O'Toole & Siobhan O'Toole

Siobhan and Samantha are two young ladies "on purpose". Here are two beautiful, coura-

geous young ladies whose mere presence brightens up the room. Radiantly positive, you

just know they are walking "hearts on legs"!

Identical twins Samantha and Siobhan O'Toole, at 17 years old, have a story that is sure to

inspire you. In their short life, they have lived with cancer. From the age of 2 when their

mum was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, they have had many tumultuous

ups and downs, yet they have kept going, keeping their heads above water with the loving

guidance of both parents. Their mum passed away five years ago, and these two angels

have stepped up and become CanTeen leaders and International Youth leaders, inspiring

young and old with their resilience and their "can do" attitude. All who have the privilege

of meeting them witness and feel their authentic loving energy.

They also contribute to the Newcastle Basket Brigade working tirelessly with other volun-

teers to raise funds for hampers of hope to deliver to individuals and families in need over

Christmas.

They are both passionate about music and participate in marching bands and orchestras

regularly, sharing their passion with others.

They are shining examples of youth who demonstrate the values of Courage, Passion and

Contribution.

Lake Macquarie

Jesse Evans

Jesse's Evans is 17yrs old, and has 5 younger siblings, and a Mum and step dad. Jesse is a

member of the On Fire Program (auspiced by The Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW). The

On Fire Program works with children and young people who have family members with a

mental health issue. Jesse has helped out a lot at home. Jesse joined the On Fire program

in 2013 when he was 14yrs old. Jesse is a very calm and quiet person and always helpful.

Even though most young people drop out of the On Fire program when they are around

16yrs old, Jesse has continued to come to every event, and fully participated. Because of

his commitment, Jesse was offered to "transition" to become a volunteer Youth Support

Leader, when he turned 17yrs. Jesse has fully participated in the transition to leader train-

ing process, gradually taking on more responsibilities and proving to be a great help at our

events. At the end of 2016, when Jesse turns 18yrs, he will complete the Leader training

and become a full volunteer Youth Support Leader for On Fire. Despite not coping at

school, due to a difficult home life, Jesse made the decision to start fulltime TAFE this year,

doing a vocational preparation course. This week Jesse has now landed himself a part time

job with Australia Post in the mail handling department. Jesse continues to live at home

with his Mum and step dad, and visit his siblings regularly, and always attends every On

Fire event and helps out. Jesse has a great ability to persevere through adversity, and he

will continue to go forward and achieve.

YOUNG PERSON OF THE YEAR: FINALISTS Maitland/ Dungog

Jacob Harris

Jacob Harris is a Year 11 Student at Hunter Trade College studying Electro-technology and

Construction and working towards gaining an apprenticeship and a trade based career.

Jacob is 18 years of age.

Jacob has had to deal with many difficult circumstances and challenges during his young

life, he lives with his Mother and younger brother. Jacob is currently Primary Carer for his

Mother, and also cares for his younger brother.

Jacob demonstrates extraordinary strength and resilience. In addition to his family and

college commitments Jacob continues to strive to do the best he can to further his own

education and still finds time to help others. At College, Jacob has become voluntary Stu-

dent Representative on the College Improvement Squad. The mission of this group is

“Working towards a more enjoyable training community where everyone can feel safe and

respected." Meetings are held every 3 weeks, some during Jacob's lunch breaks. Jacob

contributes his own time and efforts to support the college community, sometimes being

required to research and work on items in his own time.

Every second Sunday Jacob helps out as a volunteer for a Restoration Club restoring old

cars. He is currently helping with wiring of the clubhouse. Jacob has demonstrated an

ability to rise above adversity, strength to continue to develop and succeed and commit-

ment to his family and giving of his time and assistance to his fellow students.

Maitland/ Dungog

Ben Fellowes

Ben graduated from Maitland Grossmann High in 2015. During his senior year he was an

academic student and vice captain. However he was mostly known among the school com-

munity for his character and kindness. During World Kindness Day Ben received more than

5 times the amount of nominations as any other student and received an award in assem-

bly to a cheering crowd. During a normal school day you would see Ben chatting with

many different students from many different grades, particularly marginalised students.

Ben was always available for a listening ear, a kind word or to give advice to anyone in

need. His reputation was so that students would seek him out on recommendation from a

friend. It was not unusual to see Ben in a classroom at lunchtime with one or more stu-

dents, particularly those suffering from bullying, isolation and other personal issues, and

providing them genuine support and friendship. As Ben walks by many younger students

rush up to say hello and he knows them all by name and they are never ignored. Ben had

such a strong connection with his school community that during 2016 he planned to take a

gap year, but before he could make any plans the school principal head hunted him to

work one on one with a high needs student enrolled for 2016. She knew Ben's personality

and character were just what this young boy needed for support and also as a role model.

This year Ben has been working at Grossmann High and enjoying his time in the special

education unit in which he is well loved and respected. Ben plans to attend university to

study to become a paramedic, a career in which he will continue to help people and

spread kindness.

YOUNG PERSON OF THE YEAR: FINALISTS Maitland/ Dungog

Natasha Selkrig

Natasha Selkrig first became involved in the Maitland Youth Committee in 2014 and then

moved to Sydney to follow her new passion: modelling. It wasn't long until she was a pro-

fessional in many aspects of the industry and now is full time. In 2015, after many

attempts of winning a crown and a wall of National Finalist Sashes, she was crowned Miss

Australia for the International Miss Cosmopolitan world. She flew to Malaysia to compete

and ended up in the top 8 of the world. She is now an Australian finalist for Miss Interna-

tional 2016.

Natasha has been involved in volunteer work, charity work and fundraising, community

service and charity awareness. This year, although much time has been put in for many

charities, the focus charity for Natasha is Teal Wings of Hope, which is an ovarian cancer

awareness charity dedicated to spreading awareness on early detection of ovarian cancer.

Natasha came back to Maitland to be the MC on the Acoustic Stage of Sun Street Festival

(Youth Week Event), where she spoke to young people about goals, ambitions and follow-

ing your dreams, no matter what. Natasha spoke about her humble beginnings, her strug-

gles and her resilience, and her speech was met with applause by the crowd of young peo-

ple. Natasha is a driven, inspiring young woman who has grown in confidence and come so

far from the quiet, acoustic musician who first joined the Youth Committee. She is com-

mitted to creating a better life for herself, and helping people while she does it.

Newcastle

Bailey Clarke

Bailey is a talented young man with a passion for community and music. In the past few

years he has watched his dad struggle with major health issues and a close friend work

hard to flee domestic violence. Bailey was not prepared to sit back and just watch women

struggle without the support of community so took it upon himself to use the talent he has

- his music -to raise money. Over the past 2 years he has raised over $5000 in total for The

Watoto children in Africa, a family in Armidale who had been affected by the drought, and

The Crohns and Colitis Foundation. This year he has recruited his little sister Olivia to sing

with him. He has pledged his $$ to 'Got Ya Back Sista' an independent group that help

women fleeing domestic violence get set up in new homes- helping women to begin again.

He is also part of his school Student leadership team and with them will be running a

school Domestic Violence Awareness Day that will see every child in the school make a

ribbon star to hang from their school COLA to remind them all that they have a part to play

in ending domestic violence. His weekends see him volunteering his time to play keyboard

for young children's programs with his Youth Group in Lake Macquarie. Bailey’s empathy,

humility and determination make him a truly inspirational 15 year old young man.

YOUNG PERSON OF THE YEAR: FINALISTS Newcastle

Rachel Saidi

Rachel Saidi is a highly motivated , creative young person, working hard in our local com-

munity to support other young people & families. Rachel was born in the Democratic Re-

public of Congo before spending 12 years in a refugee camp in Tanzania with her family

after fleeing civil unrest in their home country. She arrived in Australia in 2011 to settle in

Newcastle. She is now studying Social Science at the University of Newcastle with a focus

on Community Welfare & Human Services. Some of Rachel’s community work in Newcas-

tle in recent years includes:

-Creating 2 short films , one of which was included in Tantrum Theatre's refugee week

short film program in 2015 ( with another 5 short films either written or in progress);

-Representing the Congolese & refugee community as a youth ambassador with MYAN

NSW at NSW Youth Summit in 2015 ;

- Participating in the Newcastle, Taree & Port Macquarie Multicultural Youth Exchange

2015 to share experiences for CALD students with young people in other regional areas;

-Involvement as a coordinator & participant in her Congolese Dance Performance Group &

Congolese Childrens’ Parliament project

Rachel’s plans for the future include completing her University studies, raising money to

complete her next short films and hoping in the future to be able to achieve her long term

goal of giving something back to her home country.

Newcastle

Ella Reed

Ella always goes above and beyond to advocate for young people in Newcastle, while also

balancing, work, studying Social Science at the University of Newcastle and managing her

own volunteer based community project, Wings and Strings.

Ella has been an active member of Newcastle Youth Council (NYC) since 2007, spending

the last year on the committee as Youth Mayor. Ella shows incredible passion for youth

advocacy, leadership and social change in Newcastle. Ella is reliable and supportive of her

community, shown through her dedication to local youth and women in need. Ella is nev-

er too busy to help out, and is a very positive and engaging young woman.

Ella is currently successfully managing Wings and Strings, where she sources donations of

women's hygiene items, which are then distributed to women's support services in New-

castle and the Hunter region who work with people who are experiencing homelessness,

financial hardship or domestic violence.

Ella is passionate and determined to become a stronger leader every day.

YOUNG PERSON OF THE YEAR: FINALISTS Port Stephens

Kaylie Newell

Kaylie is a young person who has seen a need and has decided to meet that need in a posi-

tive way. About 18 months ago she brought an idea to the Port Stephens Youth Advisory

Panel about creating a website as a “one stop shop” for young people to gain information.

In Youth Week this year, it was launched as part of The Deck’s Youth Week event. Kaylie

did a lot of consulting with young people in the developing of the website and took initia-

tive in presenting her ideas to the Port Stephens Youth Interagency. Kaylie then built the

website with the support of a few Youth Advisory Panel members. Whilst this is still a work

in progress, Kaylie has developed something that has immense potential and the Youth

Advisory Panel will be taking this on with the support of local service providers. Kaylie has

created all this, while at the same time having a busy life- Kaylie has a 4 year old daughter,

is a single parent, a University student, in her final internship of a teaching degree and is

also a navigator for high performance rally cars. To support this initiative, check out http://

www.portstephensyouthaccess.com/

Port Stephens

Tabatha Tyne

Tabatha is a lovely friendly young person who is such an amazing artist. Her drawings are

beautiful and she would love to help people through the power of art. She wants to be a

teacher. Tabatha does so much for headspace Maitland- if she can get somewhere she will

go and help in any way that she can to spread the message about mental health and to

help any young person that needs it.

YOUNG PERSON OF THE YEAR: FINALISTS Upper Hunter

Fiona Stalker

Fiona Stalker is 15 years old and currently in Year 11 in high school. Fiona has always dis-

played remarkable leadership qualities and dedication for someone as young as her all

throughout her lifetime. Fiona showed great empathy for others, even at a very young

age, which has always created a desire to make a difference in the world by volunteering

for different causes (e.g. Relay for Life, Salvation Army, White Ribbon Day, RSPCA Cupcakes

day, Jeans for Genes, CanTEEN, Beanie for Brain Cancer, and Kids Helpline).

Last year, Fiona had undertaking to raise $1,000 towards sponsoring a child’s education at

the School of St Jude in Tanzania Africa, a school established by Gemma Sisia, who takes

the poorest of the African boys & girls and provides them with a free quality education to

break the generational cycle of poverty within Tanzania and its students.

In the end, Fiona exceeded her fundraising target with $8,822.05 that went directly to the

School of St Jude to educate the children of Tanzania. The money raised will allow the

School to educate one student for 8 years and 10 months or nearly 9 children for one year.

Importantly, Fiona has created an interest within the local high school (which she does not

attend) to consider adopting the same leadership program through which she was attract-

ed to this project. Her fundraising activities raised awareness and allowed the community

to come together building diversity and knowledge otherwise not obtained.

Upper Hunter

Samantha Butler

Samantha Butler or 'Sammy' as some know her is a music loving, guitar strumming individ-

ual who has the most infectious laugh coupled with a social conscious well above her

years. Sammy has been an integral part of our Youth Action Team (Youth Council) since its

inception. Sammy is a proactive member of the committee who advocates for her peers

and is a mentor to our younger committee members. Sammy is a driving force in Singleton

Youth Venue's programs and activities; recently her support with the Youth Week Outdoor

Cinema event was pivotal to the night’s success. Between Sammy's university studies to

become a social worker and her employment commitments, she finds time to volunteer as

a tutor at Singleton Youth Venue to support high school students with their school work on

Wednesday afternoons. Sammy has an interest in understanding the local community and

looking for avenues to ignite change. She has taken the time to review Singleton's Commu-

nity Strategic Plan and supported the development of our Youth Strategy. Sammy's enthu-

siasm and commitment to serving others is commendable making her a well-respected

member of the Singleton community.

YOUNG PERSON OF THE YEAR: FINALISTS Upper Hunter

Lauren Howard– Hickey

Lauren is a 17year old girl who has a passion for volunteering and helping those in unfortu-

nate situations.

Lauren is heavily involved within the community, working alongside leaders and important

citizens in organisations and groups.

Lauren's dedicated her spare time to organising and helping others, striving to fundraise

for many charities such as The Fred Hollows foundation, Upper Hunter Homeless Support

Service, and Relay For Life.

As well as this, she has attended many leadership and community courses over the past 3

years such as Outward Bound, Max Potential and most importantly RYPEN, which she was

able to attend again this year as a facilitator for the youth.

Lauren enjoys her time at the Singleton Youth Venue, organising events for the youth also,

as well as working with the youth workers and inspiring people there also.

Since 2014, Lauren has changed her life into a positive one that will hopefully affect every-

one.

Lauren plans on becoming a youth worker/psychologist and is preparing herself through

volunteer work.

ART AUCTION

RYDON CONFERENCE ARTWORK

Saretta Fielding

My name is Saretta Fielding and I am a Wonaruah woman.

I was born in Sydney to an Aboriginal father of the Wonaruah people and a European mother. I have enjoyed the benefit of growing up within a large and close knit extended family and much of my work is influenced by family connection and relation-

ships.

I consider Lake Macquarie my home and am greatly influenced by the beauty of this country in my Artwork.

Growing up alongside Lake Macquarie, surrounded by the bush lands of the Watagan Mountains and the wonderful beaches of our coastline has given me the best nature has to offer.

A pioneering member of Yarnteen, I was appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer in 2009, prior to this I held senior management positions in both the Awabakal Aboriginal Co-operative and Yarnteen College, as well as playing an active role as

a business partner in a family business. In 2010 I launched my art business, to accommodate the commercial success of my artwork.

I am passionate and committed to seeing the Aboriginal community advance towards economic and social inclusion. I believes that through unity, vision and planning, we can achieve a sustainable future that embraces reconciliation and is rich in econom-

ic opportunity.

I have always painted, drawn and experimented in a variety of art mediums, as art has long been a passion for me. I love the challenge of conveying to others, through art, how I am influenced by people, life experiences and natures beauty.

My son is Levi Fielding and he assisted me with the artwork.

RYDON ABORIGINAL CULTURAL AWARENESS ARTS GRANT All Saints College, St Joseph's Campus, Lochinvar

The RYDON Aboriginal Cultural Awareness Arts Grant is a Regional Youth Development Officers Network (RYDON) initia-tive started in 2012, and provides an opportunity for young people to better understand and learn about Aboriginal culture through visual arts. The RYDON Aboriginal Cultural Awareness Arts Grant will help support the Hunter/Central Coast regions Aboriginal art development through targeted investment into opportunities for young people to learn from Aboriginal

artists and art workers.

The RYDON Aboriginal Cultural Awareness Arts Grant is open to Individuals, partnerships and groups. For 2016, All Saints Col-lege, St Joseph's Campus, Lochinvar were the recipients of the grant.

THE AUCTIONEER Tegan Kleinman, TK Auction Services

TK Auction Services was established after the director Tegan Kleinman a licenced real estate agent and passionate Auctioneer

noticed a lack of a the complete Auction Service for the Newcastle, Hunter Valley and Lake Macquarie region. Tegan recog-

nised a genuine need and strongly believes that the Auction sales method is the best method to deliver your clients the best

possible price in the most efficient time. If you’re looking for an Auctioneer with integrity and high energy approach look no

further. TK Auction Services and Tegan Kleinman is your Auctioneer. http://tkauctionservices.com.au

RYDON Inc. [Regional Youth Development Officers Network] is a network of Youth Development Officers

from the Cessnock, Dungog, Gloucester, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Newcastle, and Upper Hunter Local

Government Areas.

RYDON’s primary purpose is to focus on community development activities that will assist young people to

access community resources and opportunities. This is done through:

Promoting coordination, cooperation and networking between providers of services to young people;

Lobbying government and other relevant bodies on behalf of young people and providers of services

to young people;

Supporting, organising and providing training for those working with young people;

Representing the interest of young people and those working with young people

Achievements

Delivering 27 years of youth sector conferences making us the longest running youth sector conference

in Australia.

Establishment of the annual Regional Youth Services Awards and being recognised in Parliament for

these awards.

Development of the RYDON Code Of Ethics in consultation with the youth sector and industry profes-

sionals.

The 2016 RYDON conference is brought to you by:

Resources, Funding available

Research, Articles and News

Upcoming Training, Meetings and Events

More information about your local Youth Interagency meetings

Contact details for your local Youth Development Officer

Policies and Advocacy

RYDON Youth Worker Code of Ethics

Youth Services Directory

Subscription link to the monthly RYDON newsletter

www.rydon.org.au