For three decades, Belmore Youth Resource Centre (BYRC) has been a drop-in centre for young people in Canterbury-Bankstown.
The Council facility, which provides a safe space and programs to youth aged 12-24 years, opened on 27 August 1994 and has welcomed more than 10,000 locals through its doors.
Those dealing with life’s challenges escape to the Centre to access counselling and support services, while those just wanting a cool hangout space after school are also welcomed. Council hosted a special celebration of BYRC’s 30th birthday last month, with previous and current young people and workers.
Attendees were treated to acai bowls and live music, while reflecting on the impact of the Centre over the past 30 years.
For Shy Leolahi, visiting BYRC some 24 years ago changed her life. The former local said it was the mentorship she received at the Centre that inspired her to become a youth worker.
“I used to go to BYRC with my friends after school to hang out,” Mrs Leolahi said.
“I have fond memories of my friends breakdancing in the courtyard because that was the cool thing to do back then.
“It was there that I met youth workers Vic and Eve, who became mentors to me. You build that friendship and trust with the youth workers and you feel like you can open up to them.”
Mrs Leolahi went on to spend her early career as a youth worker at Paramount Youth Services (PYS) and said facilities like BYRC are incredibly important.
“It was a safe space for me and it was a place to keep out of trouble,” she said. Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek said he is proud of the work of BYRC in guiding local youth through the ups and downs of life.
“In a world that can be daunting for young people, it’s great to see there is support available to them,” Mayor El-Hayek said.
“BYRC is a fantastic hub for youth to come together and have fun.”
BYRC is also home to Barnados Australia, Mission Australia, BreakThru People Solutions and YouthBlock Youth Health Service.
The Centre is located at Building 3, 38-40 Redman Parade, Belmore, and is open from 3-5pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays during the school term. For more information, visit cb.city/BYRC
