Swan Hill Rural City Council was announced as one of five councils across Victoria to share in $2.5 million funding from the State Government’s Youth Empower Program.
Council will use the funding to deliver projects to support young people in Swan Hill, Lake Boga, Robinvale and Nyah to achieve their education and employment goals.
Mayor, Les McPhee, said the funding meant big things for Council’s Youth Support Program.
“We have such a unique situation in our region, with a large number of smaller outlying towns that don’t have direct access to youth services.
“This funding will allow us to boost support and resources for young people in our smaller townships who are at risk of disengaging from education and training.”
The funding announcement was made at the inaugural Youth Affairs Council Victoria Rural Youth Awards, where Council’s own Youth Support Co-ordinator Kane Sparks was the first ever inductee to their Hall of Fame.
Kane was selected for his long standing and dedicated service to the youth sector and the impact he’s had on young people in the community.
“Kane has been working with the youth of our region for ten years and is a worthy recipient.
“I’d also like to congratulate NOVO Youth Council members Hana Roberts and Tiana Sixsmith who were named as finalists in the Young People Leading Change in Rural or Regional Victoria category.
“Swan Hill was the only region to have three award nominations, which just further highlights the fantastic work of our young people and our Youth Support program.”
