Young people across the Burdekin shire will be given a local voice when Burdekin Shire Youth Council returns for 2023, with the first meeting of the year scheduled for next week.
The Youth Council is made up of local residents between the ages of 12 and 21 years old from across the Shire and provides opportunities to learn meeting procedures, assist at major events, fundraise for local causes and have a say in community projects.
2022 Burdekin Shire Youth Council Deputy Mayor, Zavier Wood said being a part of Youth Council was an invaluable experience.
“I have been a member of the Burdekin Shire Youth Council for several years now and in that time have been both Youth Mayor and Deputy Mayor, as well as being named the 2023 Burdekin Young Citizen of the Year,” Mr Wood said.
“Youth Council has not only allowed me to meet other young people in the Burdekin and be a part of some of our community’s biggest events, but has improved my confidence and even allowed me to provide feedback on some major local projects like the Burdekin Water Park and Youth Needs Survey.
“We can’t wait for meetings to start again for 2023, and I invite all young people in the Burdekin to join us.”
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor, Lyn McLaughlin said the Youth Council were well-respected for not only their volunteering and fundraising efforts locally, but their voice in community consultations.
“Our Burdekin Shire Youth Council volunteer at a range of the Shire’s largest events including Fast Track North Queensland and Community Christmas Carols. Council also ensures they are a key part of community consultation on community projects with a significant youth focus,” Mayor McLaughlin said.
“I encourage anyone between the ages of 12 and 21 to join.”
Burdekin Shire Youth Council will hold their first meeting of 2023 at Burdekin Shire Council’s Chambers from 3:30pm on Monday 27 February. For more information visit the Burdekin Shire Youth Council Facebook page.
