Making their mark: Meet the 2023 Youth Council

23 March 2023

Twenty-one inspiring Year-10 students from across the region will represent local youth on the 2023 Southern Downs Youth Council and today the new cohort officially received their badges from Southern Downs Councillors at the Warwick Town Hall.

Since its inception in 2018, the Southern Downs Youth Council Program has provided an opportunity for young people to develop a better understanding of the role and function of local government, the community and local issues while building confidence and leadership skills.

In congratulating the new group on their appointments, Southern Downs Councillor Sheryl Windle said she looked forward to working with them to create positive outcomes for their peers.

“Council is committed to proactively involving young people in the future of our community through consultation and decision-making processes and it’s lovely to meet such a motivated and impressive group of our region’s youth,” Councillor Windle said.

“The Southern Downs Youth Council is an important platform that gives a voice to young people who live, work, study or volunteer on the Southern Downs.

“It presents a unique opportunity for members to raise community issues, exchange ideas and discuss solutions and I hope each member enjoys the journey and grows from the experience.

“This think tank forms part of a broader commitment to build a strong and inclusive community and I look forward to working closely with them during their term to achieve meaningful and relevant goals.”

During their term, Youth Council members have the opportunity to contribute to numerous community events including ANZAC Day, Australia Day, Citizenship Ceremonies, NAIDOC Week, Youth Week, Domestic & Family Violence Peace Walk and Carols in the Park.

Southern Downs schools represented on the 2023 Youth Council are: Allora State School, Assumption College Warwick, Killarney State School, School of Total Education, SCOTS PGC College, St Joseph’s School, Stanthorpe State High School, Warwick Christian College and Warwick State High School.