By Lucy Waldron
The Southern Downs Youth Council (SDYC) was born to give the youth of the region a voice in the issues that matter to them.
On Thursday 18 April, the new committee for 2024 was awarded their badges and vests, kicking off their official duties.
A council spokesperson explained that the SDYC is all about making sure young people know what’s going on in the council and how it affects them.
“It’s important for young people to talk to the mayor and councillors so they can have a say,“ the spokesperson said.
Even if not all their ideas are put into action, the council wants to listen and consider what they have to say.
The inaugural gathering of the 2024 committee witnessed the presence of Deputy Mayor Sheryl Windle, Councillor Morwenna Harslett, and Councillor Russell Wantling, alongside a guest speaker from Borderline, who provided invaluable insights to the young members.
The SDYC also helps spread information to schools and encourages young members to share what they learn with their school councils. This way, everyone can work together to make sure young voices are heard in the council’s decisions.
By giving them the tools and knowledge, the council hopes to build a community where everyone’s voice matters.
As the new committee of 2024 gets started, the Southern Downs Youth Council is ready to make a big impact, ensuring that young voices are not just listened to, but actively included in shaping the future of the community.
