The group of 12 young people has just completed their elected term after 18 months engaging with local youth, policy makers and community leaders.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said he’s very proud of what the group has achieved during their term.
“Mackay was the first local government in Australia to have an elected youth council as part of the Foundation for Young Australians Young Mayors program,” Mayor Williamson said.
“It’s been wonderful to see these passionate young people grow and develop over the last 18 months and to have them advocate for youth priorities in the region,” he said.
“Their ‘Recreation, Opportunities and Wellbeing’ document is a tremendous insight into what young people see as the future for our region.”
The group was also involved with numerous community events, including youth nights at the libraries, Rotary’s Domestic and Family Violence awareness campaign, and march and walk and talk sessions at the Botanic Gardens.
Outgoing Youth Council member Amelia Webber said it’s been an amazing experience.
“I wanted to be part of something that helps make a difference in our community and it’s been a wonderful opportunity to make new friends and speak on issues that affect the youth of Mackay,” Amelia said.
“I’d definitely recommend that other young people think about nominating to be part of the next Youth Council,” she said.
Nominations are now open for the next Mackay Youth Council, for people aged 11 to 17 who live or study in the Mackay Regional Council area.
Candidates will have the opportunity to campaign in their schools and networks with a ‘polling week’ held in local schools in mid-October.
“With the term of the second youth council now complete, we are excited to be able to support yet another election to deliver the youth of Mackay a voice, via a democratically elected youth council,” Mayor Williamson said.
For more information about the Youth Council and a timeline for the upcoming election visit Young Mayors Mackay - FYA