Campbelltown City Council has taken out top honours at the 2007 Local Government Youth Week Awards. Held as part of Local Government Week and hosted by New South Wales Local Government and Shires Associations, Campbelltown’s award was for its outstanding Youth Week program.
At a special awards ceremony held in August, Council received the Youth Week Award for Best Ongoing Commitment to Local Youth Week programs. Campbelltown was also a finalist in the Best Local Youth Week category. The accolade was awarded for the success of this year’s Youth Week events, as well as those hosted during the past three to five years.
Council’s 2007 Youth Week activities attracted crowds of more than 2,200 young people. Some 18 events were offered throughout the duration of the celebration, including musical performances, sports days, youth recreation events and art and drama workshops. The event also included the coordination and input of almost 100 young volunteers, who gained a range of valuable skills in organising activities.
Mayor of Campbelltown, Aaron Rule, said the award was well deserved.
“Campbelltown City Council’s Youth Development Unit performs a vital and important role in our community,” he said. “Not only were the events well planned and organised, they also provided an ideal opportunity for young people to get involved and give something back to their City.
“This year’s Youth Week activities saw an increase in participation, with an additional 300 young people attending events. The week catered for a range of interests and offered everything from free body combat classes, the launch of the beginner’s area at Campbelltown Skate Park, plus our annual skate and BMX competition, a stencil art workshop, and the Strengthening Bridges Youth Talent Quest.
“National Youth Week helps foster young people’s self esteem and encourages them to adopt healthy lifestyles, and it is fantastic that Council’s efforts have been officially recognised.”
