SIMPLE REQUESTS STUN COUNCIL

The Youth Speak Out team presented a proposal to address youth boredom in Griffith to Mayor Dino Zappacosta and Assistant General Manager - Corporate Andrew Crackenthorp last Monday night, with Council to give a formal response in mid-April.

Of the four major projects submitted to Council the team is hoping at least one or all of the projects can be implemented. The proposal includes simple and cost effective activities to engage all youth, including;

• A half price night at the Griffith Regional Aquatic and Leisure Centre for use in the gym and pool for young people
• A non-competitive fun sports day once a week or month at the Westend Sports Stadium
• Maintenance at the Griffith Skate Park to address the cracks in the concrete which have become dangerous when skates catch in the crevices,, as well as a sun shade to provide sun smart shelter to skaters and bike riders
• Variety nights and or blue light disco to be re-introduced

All the proposals put forward to Council left both Dino and Andrew astonished. One of the four coordinators, Val Rowe said that " I think they were shocked that the youth team went for such achievable suggestions. They were very proud of the youth team and praised the kids for their sensible ideas which revolved around health and fitness and sun smart issues."

Val said the Youth Speak Out team would like to see support for a long term project for squirmish or paint ball, which is very big all round Australia. "These suggestions may not fit every youth's ideas in this town, but it is a start and we are welcoming other people's ideas. Even if one of these projects is achieved, more will follow and other ideas will come of it as well'" said Val.

Council will meet with the Youth Speak Out team once they hvae addressed which projects can go ahead with their support.

Story by: Riverina Real Estate Magazine, March 29 2007.