Silent Disco

The impressive student-producer duo behind YouthTunes are back again with more unique musical affairs. They've got endless motivation when it comes to making sure local youth keep up a thriving social life around events that are fun, edgy and really make the community work together. 

YC Conserve & Protect

Our own Tony Wells is a horticulture hero and always on the frontline when it comes to green projects. The Express Advocate caught up with him and his youthful crew about developing a new wildlife corridor at Watanobbi.

Young Parents Program Wyong

Young Parents Program Wyong is as an innovative school for young parents. It provides support to achieve individual educational goals and offers practical parenting skills in an environment that is flexible and community orientated. For more information about YPPW click here

Come to the information session on Tuesday 7th February,

 10:30am at Wadalba Community Centre 

Freedom Riders and Freedom Fighters

Freedom Riders take next step for change

On Thursday, January 19, the Freedom Riders will journey to Canberra to attend the official handover of the formal report on recognition of Indigenous Australians in the Constitution from the Expert Panel to the Australian Government.

Freedom Rider and youthconnections.com.au Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Advisor Gavi Duncan says this opportunity is part of fulfilling their promise to the Aboriginal people of north-west and coastal NSW.

“We visited remote communities so they could have a say about constitutional change and told them their voices would be heard,” said Duncan.

“We’re also seeking the support of Government to have the Freedom Ride acknowledged as an annual celebration among all Australians,” he said.

Almost a year ago, the Freedom Riders retraced the same 2300km journey across NSW, made in ’65 by the late Charles Perkins, to collect the views of the 21 communities.

Documented in a kangaroo-skin petition book and on a message stick made of Wattle, the Freedom Riders presented the communities’ views on constitutional recognition of Indigenous Australians to the Expert Panel in September last year.

The Freedom Riders are a group of 25 Central Coast Aboriginal and non- Aboriginal young people, Aboriginal Elders and youthconnections.com.au Koori Connect staff.

The Attorney General, The Hon Nicola Roxon and the Minister for Indigenous Affairs, The Hon Jenny Macklin will be in attendance.

The event will take place at the The National Gallery of Australia.  

Meet Rolf Geerlings (& Echo)

Should Indigenous Australians be recognised  in the Constitution?

Coles Step Up

Words & image: Jess Oldfield

This week 12 Central Coast Aboriginal job seekers will begin permanent part-time work with local Coles supermarkets as part of a national Indigenous Employment Program.

“Over 30 applicants applied for 12 positions, so there is a huge need to support Indigenous employment on the Coast,” said Denise Markham, youthconnections.com.au’s Indigenous Executive Officer.

youthconnections.com.au partnered with Customer Focus Group Training and local Coles stores to deliver the government-funded IEP known as ‘Coles First Step’, which aims to provide 205 Indigenous Australians with jobs over the next 18 months.

Participants completed the two-week pre-employment retail training at youthconnections.com.au’s Indigenous Skills Centre at Green Central and a one-week paid work experience in store before commencing jobs in deli, night fill, customer service, docks/service, dairy, bakery and produce.

The Coolamon On Green Central, a training café adjoining The Indigenous Skills Centre, catered for the group during the training and was a source of cultural connection for participants.

“The Coolamon employs and trains Aboriginal Elders, women and young people, which meant the training took place in a culturally appropriate work environment,” said Markham.

Coles store supervisors also completed cultural awareness training in the Indigenous Skills Centre training rooms.

23-year-old Ashleigh Grauner was one of the successful applicants who received a job offer with Coles Erina as a night fill worker restocking the supermarket’s dairy section.

“I applied for night fill so I can also keep my casual day job,” said Grauner.

“I’m about to become a dad, so getting this extra work was a big relief and means I can support my family,” he said.

All new employees were guaranteed a minimum of 15 hours per week with the opportunity for full time employment in the future.

TradeStart 2012 Enrolments Open

Interview bookings for enrolments are currently being taken. Please contact Brian Jackson or Vicki Smith of Erina High School on PH: (02) 4367 7353. 

Breakfast Club Profile

Alison Harkness admits she didn’t really know she could cook until she started volunteering for the Breakfast Club.

ALESCO stand up to exams

Words: Jess Oldfield

Images: Duncan McFarlane

Just about all of us have felt the exam-time tremble. The wave of nausea before 'sitting' an exam. Today at Green Central 26 ALESCO students 'stood up' to them, bravely completing their Yr 10 School Certificate English and Science exams with the rest of NSW. 

ALESCO student Indigo Doolan-Brown shares how she felt after this mornings English paper and what her plans are for next year.

"I prepared for English as much as I could, but I'm not so good with science," she said.

"I'm going to TAFE to complete year 11 next year."

Fellow ALESCO student Jay O'Malley-Jones, also shares his thoughts on today and the future.

"The multiple choice was easy, but the writing was harder," he said.

"I want to find an apprenticeship in the building trade next year."

A teary-eyed Linda Thomas of Youth Connections (the programme), a program which supports Central Coast young people to stay in or reconnect with education, was assisting ALESCO students with exams today. 

"I know for some of these guys they never dreamed they'd be doing their School Certificate, so we are really proud of all of them," she said.  

ALESCO is an alternate learning option for year 9 and 10 students run by Tuggerah Lakes Community College. Green Central hosts the year 10 campus.  

Digital Stories

Words & images: Jess Oldfield

I wanna dance with somebody

Words: Jess Oldfield

Images: Jess Oldfield and Marg Meehan

Aboriginal Workers Event

Words & images: Jess Oldfield

KBT get to work in the garden 

Words and images: Jess Oldfield

"That can be the moon," says Jish, pointing up into the house lights. He grips the microphone and closes the evening with a smooth rendition of Sinatra's classic, 'Fly me to the moon.'       

Last night's Pathway Advocate Awards was magical. It celebrated the achievements of 23 young learners with disabilities who successfully finished 35 hours in the workplace. Students completed their structured workplace learning in industries such as horticulture, automotive, retail and hospitality.

Proud parents clapped and cried as students received their certificates. One award-winner even graced the stage with a cartwheel before accepting his.      

Other fanciful moments were the abundance of impressive performances. Kyle's Hip Hop, Popping and Locking Academy presented routines from groups DNA, Stormtrooperz and Kaos Krew. Gavi Duncan and the Ganang Spirit Dancers performed several traditional dances and Grant Hickman serenaded the crowd with REM's 'Everybody Hurts', which he dedicated to parents.  

"I think it's the best Pathway Advocate Awards we've had yet," says youthconnections.com.au's CEO Maggie MacFie.  

A special thanks to Mingara for hosting this event and to youthconnections.com.au board members for celebrating with us.   

Asking Pat Dodson some gutsy questions

Pic: Jess Oldfield
Video: Madelaine Dickie
Audio in video: Joey

Well, a little bit ashamed to say, but YC Media and Kart'N'Yarns muscled SBS's Living Black reporters out of the way and hit Pat Dodson up for some answers on how the Panel is engaging young people in the consultation process. He answered with great humility and dignity. Pat, you're welcome to come to Green Central for a cuppa at Coolamon whenever you like! This interview was filmed on an iPad and sent live back to our YC Media studio.

Tuggerah Bunnings Cook Off 2011 Winners Announced

Young Freedom Riders Meet Expert Panel for Constitutional Change

Text: Madelaine Dickie
Pics: Jess Oldfield

9.30am and the carpark at Green Central is emptying. The last heady traces of the smoking ceremony are blowing blue toward the Flora Festival. YC's fleet of bubble cars are adorned with red and yellow and black ribbons. Within minutes we're on the freeway, flying in convoy behind the Transdev 2011 Freedom Ride bus toward one of the most significant events in Australian history.

After persistent rallying by Koori Connect staff and panel member Bill Lawson, almost the whole Expert Panel on Constitutional Recognition of Indigenous Australians gathered at Sydney University to meet with the Freedom Riders and receive the message book and message stick.

Some of the audience members had come a long way for the event. The infamous Freedom Ride bus driver Brad, dressed in a cape, had caught the overnight train from Lismore to make the event. He hadn't slept. He wouldn't have missed it for the world.

The gesture was also extremely important to the Freedom Riders, because they promised the twenty-one communities they visited that their opinions and perspectives on constitutional change would be heard.

Panel member Professor Patrick Dodson told the crowd, "We will take very seriously the words that have been written in this document."

After the speeches, Denise was said to have added, "Okay, but don't think you're getting the stick. You're only getting the replica!"

Laughter, and an understanding that (as Ann Curthoy termed them) 'The Young Freedom Riders' needed to keep this original stick for strength to continue the struggle.

Shahni Wellington, one of The Young Freedom Riders, floored the audience with a moving speech about this struggle.

"The 2011 Freedom Ride has instilled in all of those participated, the knowledge, the power and the incentive to create change."

Triple J spoke to Shahni for an interview and SBS's Living Black program also covered the event.

It doesn't end here. Bill Lawson is pushing to have the book presented to a Youth Parliament sitting in Hobart tomorrow, then to be presented at Youth Parliaments around Australia in the hope that the book can eventually rest in the hands of the Prime Minister, Julia Gillard.

"The language was colourful . . ."

Text: Madelaine Dickie
Pic: Sue Atteridge (the bbq area)

It's a spin-off from a powerful partnership forged by Sue Atteridge -- Rotary have kindly donated their assistance with the ALESCO school's Brekky Club.

Michael Kemmis was the first volunteer up, he was on the bbq with ALESCO's principal Dennis Sullivan and they cooked 5kgs of bacon and 2 dozen eggs.

"There were only about half the student population, about 40 . . . which is apparently typical on a Friday. The students were appreciative of the bacon and egg breakfast and some even uttered the 'magic words' (please and thank you)," Mr. Kemmis wrote in an email to other Rotary volunteers.

He was impressed with the set up at Green Central; he noted the mechanics workshop, garden and media centre. However, he was equally impressed with the school.

"I believe it gives these youth an amazing opportunity to learn skills that students at a 'normal' school may not have . . . The language was colourful, the conversations a little foreign to this old bloke, but I had a beaut morning. I hope our volunteers enjoy the experience as I have."

We hope they do too Michael! And we're extremely grateful of Rotary's support.  

The Consitution will cop a whalloping!

As you've no doubt heard, our Constitution is set to be changed in this government's current term. Jobs Australia supports Reconciliation Australia's campaign for Constitutional Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As a member of Jobs Australia, YC has been asked to put up this fact sheet: Sorry about the weird red lines around it. You Me Unity also have a great facebook site where you can have your say. It's definitely worth checking out: http://www.facebook.com/YouMeUnity they've also got a profile on Twitter if you're keen on following the discussion.  

Welcome to Walgett

Text: Madelaine Dickie
Pic: Denise Markham

Denise, Kylie and Gav were in Walgett a couple of weeks ago checking out the services for young people. It was a follow-up visit after the 2011 Freedom Ride; Walgett was one of the most disparate communities the Freedom Riders visited. Gavi described an incident to me that occurred on this recent trip that makes you wonder how much has changed since Charlie Perkins and the original riders visited the town.

They were out at the local footy club. The footy club was having a fundraising night to collect coin so that their primary and high school kids could come to Gosford and play sport. Around 150 -- mostly Indigenous -- people were gathered at the club.

“It was around supper time and the police were wandering in and out,” Gavi said. “They were checking up who signed in and where they were from.”

Then, at the stroke of 10pm, the police shut the fundraiser down and told everyone to leave.  

“Even the locals were disgusted the police would do that. It’s 2011 and nothing (for Aboriginal people) has changed,” Gavi said.

But with Kylie, Denise and Gavi on the job, we can expect to see strong partnerships and projects develop for the Indigenous youth in our sister city Walgett.

Try a Trade Day Two 

Text: Liam Walshe (St Edwards College)
Sub: Madelaine Dickie

The weather was slightly grim on the second day of this eye-opening campaign, intended to give young students a direction in which they can aim their careers and future pathways.

However, the weather couldn’t dampen any of the spirits wandering through the stalls and trying out the trades.

Brendan Ritchens, Green Central Site Manager said, "I’ve been involved for probably five years now, and this is the best ‘Try a Trade’ that I have been involved with. The response from the schools was terrific, I would hazard we’ve probably had the best response this year from the schools. Definately the greatest number and representation of the trade disciplines yet."

Overall the participants' general consensus was that the two day event was a success.

Students with high hopes of finding out about their future career paths were denied nothing. Emplyers and businesses from all over the coast were open to all questions and queries and ensured students got the best hands-on dexperience possible.

St Phillips Christian School, Central Coast Adventist School, Narara Valley High School, Tuggerah Lakes, St Peters and more, contributed to day two.

The title of ‘Try a Trade’ truly suits the event.

On that note…an overall success without any doubt in the minds of any attending.

Try a Trade a huge success at the Green

Text: Liam Walshe (St Edwards College)
Sub: Madelaine Dickie

The ‘Try a Trade’ day is one of the most influential days on the Central Coast. Students from up and down the coast come together for this event and learn about the trades on offer for their futures.

Rhonda Anderson, the Regional Vocational Education Consultant said, "Days like this take lots of organisation and co-ordinating by many people . . . all willing to help you, the young people on the central coast, the future workforce."
 
How did this day occur? Who had the will and determination to create such an experience that will help the future generations in more ways than can be articulated in mere words?

Well, this day was organised by the Central Coast Regional GTO (group training organisations) Network which consists of a large array of employers throughout the Central Coast that have all put in an immense amount of effort in order for the youth of the Central Coast to have the opportunity to experience different trades.

These companies are Central Coast Group Training, YC Industry Link, Nova Skill, MIGAS (Manufacturing Industries Group Apprenticeships), MBA (Master Building Association and HTN (Hospitality Training Network).

The GTO network is one of the key organisers of the ‘Try a Trade” event along with the CCATAC (Central Coast Apprenticeship Traineeship Advisory Committee) and Regional Development Australia.

Sponsorships were made by Delta Electricity, along with all HTN, YCIL, Novaskill, RDA, YC Media, CCGT, MIGAS, MBA, which all form the Group Training Organisation Network. Funding from these companies, along with the support provided by the Department of Education and Communities, fuels the event and gives the youth an opportunity unlike any other on offer.

The GTO network are responsible for brining all of the parties, apprentice displays, trades, and the employers who are at the ‘Try a Trade’ day, who are offering a hands-on experience rather then just a theoretical display of the trades.

The displays on show ranged from tiling and carpentry, to hair and beauty, along with automotive and even engineering trades.

Students from all over the coast in years 9, 10 and 11 travelled to Green Central in Kariong. The general consensus was that Green Central was the prime location for the event.

Central West Group Apprentices are one of the dominating figures involved in ‘Try a Trade’ and have been for the past seven years. 

The ‘Try a Trade’ day is an eventful day full of open-minded and hopeful students looking towards their future in any of the possible trades, hence why this day itself is of such importance and looked upon with such an immense amount of gratitude and thanks by all who have the opportunity to experience the event.

A truly life changing day to those with their hearts set on this career path.

Tuggerah Bunnings Central Coast Cook Off LAUNCH

Today was the launch of the Springtime Flora Festival and Tuggerah Bunnings Central Coast Cook Off at St Peter's Catholic College. The Cook Off showcases the skills and supports the careers of Central Coast young people in Hospitality, a skills shortage area. We bring food, community and industry to the table to make the event a delicious success. A special thanks to Tuggerah Bunnings Warehouse, our major sponsor.

Hit the ground running

On the 8^th of August 2011, eight St Edwards College students began work placement at YC Media, these young boys hit the ground running. Thrown into the deep end with assistance from the YC Media staff, these students were asked to not only learn, but record and make live announcements at the Media Centre with only a few hours experience in hand.

To add to this task a crew from Channel 7’s television show ‘What’s Up Down Under?’ travelled to Green Central to shoot a segment about the YC Media OB (outdoor broadcasting) Van. They reported on what the van is used for, its capabilities for broadcasting live from locations all over the Central Coast and the educational value it has added to school students who are interested in the radio entertainment industry. The recording studio located within the Media Centre was also an attraction that the Channel 7 team covered being interested in what occurred in the studio and the creativity, capability and interests of the students themselves. YC Media can proudly boast that they have taught on the job training to over 500 participants, giving the students hands on, real life experience.

Using the guidance of the staff at hand, students were able to creatively manufacture a radio show including student's interests, not only musically but issues that enveloped their attention and in turn, were interpreted by students for students. The YC Media team pushing these students to strive for their own ambitions within the industry, was an all round experience valued by more than just money.

Liam Walshe. St Edwards College, East Gosford.

The students are the real WINNERS

On the 8^th of August 2011, YC Media IT crew of Reagan, Rossi and Michael went to Sandgate to CHAA (Community Helping Hand Association Inc) ComputerBank.

The purpose of this was to pick up computers that have been previously donated from various companies, which have then been refurbished, restored and donated to charities that are Not For Profit, or are deemed worthy of such equipment.

CHAA use recovery disks from Microsoft to reinstall damaged operating systems and various other programs that are standard for operating systems, for example installing Microsoft Office. There aim is to take donated computers and other IT

equipment from individuals in the corporate sector and refurbish for reuse within the community to organisations that are in need.

“If you become known, it’s amazing the things people give to you” – said David Tonks, one of the workers at CHHA.

The organisation has been operating since 2002/2003, beginning in Wallsend and then moving from place to place until they finally stationed in Sandgate. They have refurbished and resold, on average approximately 3 computers per week and hope to continue this charity into the future.

YC Media and youthconnections.com.au would like to give an overwhelming and immense deal of thanks to CHHA ComputerBank for their great charity work and donation, which included 20+ computer towers in all sorts of condition, working and not working, multiple hard drives, power supplies, obsolete RAM, 2 monitors and a video camera that will come to great use within our organisation for Work Placement Students for a long time to come. - Story Michael Love - St Edwards High School.

Green Central permaculture garden 

Coming into spring we will be selling veggie produce boxes. Here's a peek at what's growing at the moment!

The Hon. George Souris talks with YC Media

Text: Madelaine Dickie
Photo: Brooke Farrell

Year 11 Entertainment work placement students from MacKillop Catholic College dropped production on their hour-long radio program to head to Gosford Regional Gallery.

The NSW Minister for the Arts was in town.

When you’re studying Entertainment and keen for a career in the industry, he’s the one person responsible for the portfolio that will directly impact your career opportunities.

The Hon. George Souris’s visit follows the announcement of a $460,000 funding boost to the Arts on the Central Coast.

youthconnections.com.au were a part of the initial consultation process, from which an extensive report was compiled. The findings were grim: despite the fact that the coast’s one of the fasting growing regions in NSW, arts funding to the region is low relative to other communities with similar populations.

Thus the boost. But what then, does this funding mean for the young people on the Coast? Closer to home what does this mean for the work placement students from MacKillop?

They were keen to ask the Minister themselves. Decked out with flip cameras, audio zooms, pens and cameras, they rehearsed their questions and waited. 

Against the odds, thanks to Hon. Chris Holstein, the students snagged ten minutes with the Minister.

Lauren James was up first.

“As a YC Media student [doing radio], I’m interested in the industry. So what would this funding package do for me, to create a career for me after I finish year 12?”

Mr Souris considered this for a moment  then said, “Our expectations of this funding package is that it will give you valuable . . . opportunities to ensure you are equipped to proceed on. What we’re doing in this interview is a forerunner of this process. I’m very pleased to have the opportunity to talk to you!”

Brooke Farrell took over from there.

“How will the funding package help the youth on the Central Coast get jobs closer by, rather than travelling all the way to Sydney? It’s very limited . . .”

“Travel is involved in absolutely every endeavour . . . but there’s no reason why program content can’t come from the regions,” Mr Souris said.

Then a cup of black tea with half a sugar was pressed into his hand and a mob were waiting inside the gallery and that was it.

youthconnections.com.au looks forward to seeing Mr Souris at The Coolamon on Green Central for black tea and bush tucker.  

Going around in circles

PSST . . .                                  

Text: Madelaine Dickie
Logo: Erin Ritchens

Last year, 28,000 school days were lost to suspension on the Central Coast. "That's alotta days," says youthconnections.com.au's Partnership Broker Lyn Cooper.

This year, it's hoped the number will be substantially less, thanks to a partnership between Umina PCYC, Evolution, PACE, Wesley Mission's 'Getting it Together Scheme', DEC and youthconnections.com.au.

After several months of negotiations, a program has been developed to cater for students suspended from Brisbane Water Secondary College's Umina Campus.

No more 20 day bored blocks of Maccas on the couch, sleep-ins, daytime TV, sifting outside the school gates or solo missions to the skate park.

Instead, students will have the chance to attend a program three days a week, which will allow them to work out at the gym, improve their literacy and numeracy, undertake drug and alcohol workshops and access any other services they might need.

"It gives young people a safe place to go when they are suspended. When they get to Evolution, they'll also realise it's not just a daggy place for ten-year-olds. And I'm hoping it will be a success, because it stops our duplication of services," Lyn said.

This partnership means the young people won't be lost within the system when they're referred to another provider. All partners will work together to achieve the best outcome for the students.

It won't just be the students who are supported, but also the parents. Bobbi from PACE will kick off a yarning circle next week for Aboriginal parents on the Peninsula who's kids have been suspended. This will inform parents of their rights and of the interview process needed to get their kids back into school.

Although the program is starting on the Peninsula, Lyn hopes it can be replicated across the Coast.

Keep your ears open for Lyn's next exciting partnership--it's gunna allow young people to build and fly planes!

Chinese Whispers Warm the Heart

Text: Madelaine Dickie

So we’re in the heart of winter. And anyone who’s spent any time in Gosford during winter will know the mornings can be teeth-breakingly cold. No one knows this better than Gosford’s homeless.

But thanks to a year 9 class at St Philip’s Christian College, this winter will be a fraction warmer.

The class rallied in response to a call for donations from the Rotary Club of East Gosford and managed to raise almost $800.

Stella Gaffney from St Philip’s spearheaded the fundraising effort. “We raised the money by baking cupcakes and selling them to our school community. We baked over 800 cupcakes on the last day of term and sold them all.”

However, they wouldn’t have known about it if hadn’t been for an elaborate case of Chinese whispers.

Suzanne Atteridge, a Partnership Broker with youthconnections.com.au, attended a Rotary meeting seeking assistance for the ALESCO Brekky Club.

At the meeting, Rotary mentioned they were gathering scarves, beanies and gloves to hand out to the homeless in Gosford.

“I sent a group email to all YC staff,” Ms Atteridge said. “Jess got back to me a couple of days later and said she’d passed on the information to staff at St Philips, who had then decided to fundraise for Rotary so they could buy new beanies, scarves and gloves.”

East Gosford Rotarian  Michael Kemmis, was blown away with the effort and sees great hope in the next generation of community leaders. 

“We are very impressed that these . . . young people have made a huge effort to help our neighbours that they may never see or even know exist.”

Stella Gaffney says it will be the start of a positive relationship with Rotary and stresses the importance of community.

“This is a wonderful example of community working together. People are very quick to judge our youth but this is a wonderful example of students wanting to do something for their community.”

As a result of this strong community networking and support, Rotary have kindly donated two staff a month to assist with the ALESCO Brekky Club.

Thank you!!

NAIDOC Week was a cracker at YC

Tanya Plibersek - Federal Member for Sydney

Text: Madelaine Dickie

Today Tanya Plibersek, the Federal Member for Sydney, Craig Thompson MP - Member for Dobell and Deb O'Neill MP - Member for Robertson visited our Tuggerah office to see what youthconnections.com.au are doing for Central Coast young people. Koori Connect spoke about the Freedom Ride journey across 22 NSW towns with a group of Indigneous and non-Indigenous Central Coast students and the new leaders the trip had created. Guests were shown the message stick and kangaroo-skinned petition book that they hope to take to parliament in support of constitutional change for Aboriginal people. They also spoke to YC Industry Link Horticulture Trainee, Daniel McGlynn and Construction Apprentice, Max Mumford about their individual journeys in their transitions from school into real jobs which could have ended very differently without the support of YCIL. Thanks to all who attended.

youthconnections.com.au Inaugural Flag Raising Ceremony - NAIDOC week 

youthconnections staff and the community ended NAIDOC week with a smoking ceremony and flag raising at Green Central. Attendees weaved their way through the garden paths and under the gunya through the smoke of eucalyptus leaves. They watched on and learnt about the history of National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Day following the raising of the Torres Strait Islander, Aboriginal and Australian flags. A spread of yummy bush tucker awaited at Coolamon Cafe. Happy NAIDOC week to all!

NAISDA mid year performance 'One Clan, Many rhythms'

On Thursday NAISDA Dance College Cert II and III students performed their mid-year show 'One clan, Many rhythms'. youthconnections.com.au staff were lucky enough to be in the audience and were taken through a mix of genres from ballet through to hip-hop. The front row of kids of wowed, laughed and clapped along to the performance. Can't wait for their performance later in the year at Laycock Street Theatre as we watch these young dancers grow and take to the stage.

The Colli Crew Crash at Green Central

Text: Madelaine Dickie

It's NAIDOC Week!!! And as part of NAIDOC Week youthconnections.com.au  were lucky enough to host the Colli Crew, a bunch of talented musicians from Collarenenbri. The Crew played at the Gosford Showground yesterday, buzzing on coffees from the Coolamon Cafe. By all reports it was a great gig! Check out one of their latest tunes on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0rJajbIs-o

Good intentions aren't enough

Media Watch covers the youthconnections.com.au Can Do Day story. Click on the image above to watch the video.

YC Industry Link scoops up at CCATAC Awards

YC Industry Link came out kicking at the Central Coast Regional Training Awards.

The night was at Diggers, The Entrance, and organised by the Central Coast Apprenticeships and Traineeships Advisory Committee.

Josh Banister nailed a position as finalist in the Trainee category for his Cert II in Business; Sarah Launders (SBA Hospitality) and Mitchell Anthony (SBA Carpentry) were finalists in the School Based Apprentice Category; and Jordan Smith (SBT Health) was the overall winner of the School Based Apprentice Category.

Congratulations to all and good luck Jordan at the State Finals!

It was a team effort from YC—thanks Joey for acknowledging country, and Katrinna, Tash and Charlotte for coming along to celebrate.

Photos up soon. 

Richard Cooke goes out with a big bang

Watch video story on youtube!

Text & video: Madelaine Dickie

Half-asleep, fingers half-frozen around steering wheels or black coffee, exhibitors, students, careers advisors, space monkeys and Richard Cook found their way to Avondale College for the biggest career event of the year.

And—despite a change of venue—this year’s expo proved to be the finest yet.

This is partly thanks to Avondale’s army: a bunch of students from the College wearing high-vis vests and white smiles. The army were first on traffic patrol, then on trolley patrol, then on set-up patrol, then on meet and greet, then on rubbish collection, then on lunch patrol—they worked hard, they worked tirelessly, they worked for nine hours straight, and the pile of positive feedback at the end of the day was testament to their contribution toward the day’s success.

And it was a success. This year over 200 tables were set up and an estimated 3000 students from the Central Coast stormed the College hall for taste-tests of different career pathways.

The exhibits were diverse, ranging from universities, TAFE and the Central Coast Community College, to the Master Plumbers Association Limited, the NSW Dental Assistant’s Association and Warnervale Air.

Staff representatives from YC’s Transition to Work Program were present, and YC Industry Link also had a stall; Katrina and Nareeda were working hard when I swung past and keeping pepped up on Mentos.

Wayne Bailey, the careers advisor at Terrigal High, said the trek to Avondale was worthwhile for his students. “It gives them the opportunity to explore and ask questions of exhibitors about future careers they might be interested in.”

Richard Cooke, the man behind the machine, said when the students go in person to the Career Pathways Expo, they’re able to experience career possibilities they might never have considered otherwise.

“The best thing about it is that you can actually speak to someone. It can be really eye-opening. You can go on all the websites, but this still might not answer your particular questions.”

However, there were a few other questions that no-one was asking and no-one could answer. Like, will students get this opportunity next year?

Richard announced that this was it. His last expo. That it was time for a break and time to hit the road with the family.

It’s a job he’s been doing since 2001, in his own time and in a voluntary capacity. Over the last ten years, he’s developed a strong rapport with principals, careers advisors and industry. Richard is undoubtedly the lynchpin of the Career Pathways Expo. What will we do without him? Who else has got the spine to pick up this mammoth job? It’ll be a tough gig to throw an expo that bangs as big as 2011.

Thanks to Avondale for the venue—the passwords for the WiFi and the complimentary lunch were unreal—to the army of Avondale College students, the exhibitors and the careers advisors. The latter had spent hours setting up the day before and duly rewarded themselves by making some sizey dents in the cake.

And thankyou Richard. The 2011 expo was professional, glitchless, memorable. We’re gunna miss the colour-coded pegs!

Aboriginal Education Pathways Awards: under the radar

Text: Madelaine Dickie

I wish I’d been sitting with the NAISDA crew for the Aboriginal Education Pathways Awards—they had the rowdiest table and were definitely having the most fun!

Denise Markham pulled off a moving night for the presentation of the awards, in an event which was referred to in several speeches as ‘under the radar’.

This is a great shame—this needs to change! Because not only is it the kind of awards night that gives you goose bumps and giggles in one hit, but the young people and teachers receiving awards deserve wide community recognition for their achievements.

Students who successfully completed year 10 or 12 in 2010 were awarded; as were teachers who had made a special contribution to Aboriginal education.

There were also mums with bubs who were awarded for obtaining degrees; students from TAFE and the Central Coast Community College; the Freedom Riders, the developing artists from NAISDA and the students in Juvenile Justice who were unable to attend were warmly acknowledged.

The awards were complemented with two memorable performances. The first was by the Ganang Spirit Dancers out of Woy Woy. Denise said they’d wanted to perform seven dances, but only had time for three. Bummer! The second was by singer songwriter Alisha Pawley, who held everyone captivated with her cool, relaxed confidence.

And John Millard made a cameo--if you looked closely you could see him sifting behind the balloons--thanks for coming John we hope you enjoyed it!

The night had a swag of sponsors: TAFE, Newcastle Uni, NAISDA, Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council, youthconnections.com.au, the Central Coast Community College, Department of Education and Communities, DEEWR, Bendigo Bank, Catholic Education, Central Coast Regional AECG and Tony Simpson and Co Law Firm.

Michael and Stacey facilitated the night and did an awesome job; a big thanks also to the Pathways Committee, guests and students.

Flag Handover Ceremony

Text: Madelaine Dickie

Ms Deborah O’Neill (MP) rocked up to Umina Public School yesterday afternoon just in time for afternoon tea—and for a symbolic ceremony.

The ceremony was a handover of flags: she presented the Parents and Community Engagement Program (PaCE) with the Aboriginal flag, the Torres Strait Islander flag and the Australian Flag.

PaCE is a program that brings Aboriginal community and parents together to help support young Aboriginal children and young adults in education. Bobbi Murray, PaCE Coordinator, says the gesture was significant because they’d asked for the flags, but hadn’t known the local Member would present them!

The ceremony included performances by Brisbane Water Secondary College’s Didgeridoo Group, Umina Public School Choir and Umina Public School Band.

PaCE is under the auspice of youthconnections.com.au.

Can Do Day - HANDS ON!

Text: Madelaine Dickie

Driving rain didn't keep away the students keen to get their fingers dirty (or painted!) at the Can Do Day.

This year the day was held at Green Central and provided young people with disabilities the chance to try out a number of trades including Animal Care, Hair and Beauty, Furnishings, Horticulture, Hospitality, Automotive and Retail. They were also able to chat to TAFE teachers about the different possible Access courses available to them in 2012.

Just shy of 50 students turned up, with Hospitality, Animal Care and Automotive among the most popular trades. However, Ash McGeorge, Disability Programs Manager, said he did have some trouble coaxing the fellas to get their nails painted at the Hair and Beauty stall!

Despite the wild weather and new location, the day was a hit.

Ash is still receiving positive emails from TAFE teachers and schools.

Ann Isaac from TAFE NSW wrote, 'You and Youth Connections (Ashley) put on a fantastic 'Can Do' day . . . We will probably see many of them (the students) wandering the campuses next year as TVET students.'

Donna Lott, the Assistant Principal from Hopetown School, was similarly impressed, 'Just wanted to extend thanks on behalf of myself and my students. Today is an invaluable experience for my students and we appreciate the effort and organisation that you and your team put into the day.'

Ash sent out a heartfelt email of his own, 'Just wish to send out a big thanks to the transitions team, Reagan, Jess, Coolamon Cafe and Sarah for all the help with the organisation of the Can Do Day. We had a new venue and had to deal with the elements but all in all it was very successful and welcomed by TAFE teachers and most importantly students.'

Ash, we're looking forward to next year!

Kicking down doors

Photo: Kickstart Carpentry graduates 

Photo: Kickstart Metals and Engineering graduates

Text: Madelaine Dickie
Photos: Erin Ritchens

It was a bitterly cold night up the mountain, but over 60 people braved it for the Kickstart Graduation.

Kickstart is a Pre-Apprenticeship Training program developed in 2009 to encourage small and medium-sized employers to take on apprentices. It gives young people the opportunity to gain vital employability skills and industry experience. 

Tuesday night’s graduation was for young people who’d completed Pre-Apprenticeship Training in Carpentry or Metals and Engineering.

Among the guests were host employers, TAFE, family and YC staff. youthconnections.com.au would like to extend a warm thanks to everyone who was able to make it and a warm congratulations to all the students who completed their training!

Kickstart Pre-Apprenticeship Training is funded by the Australian Government and managed by State Training Services, NSW Department of Education and Communities.

We acknowledge the past and continue the struggle

Text: Madelaine Dickie

That was the powerful motto of the 2011 Freedom Ride and the riders are living up to it. 

Last week, as part of Reconciliation Week, fifteen of the riders travelled to Sydney to present the Message Stick, Message Book and a photo slideshow of the 2011 Freedom Ride to staff from FaHCSIA (the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs).

They presented to a crowded house: over fifty FaHCSIA staff members were present and video conferencing was set up with four Indigenous Coordination Centres around NSW.

The presentation was to provide a debrief to FaHCSIA—they were a key funding partner—and also to grab the attention of the Expert Advisory Panel for Constitutional Change.

The panel sits within FaHCSIA and is made up of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal leaders. It is responsible for revising the wording of the Constitution to include Indigenous Australians. 

The message book contains messages to the Panel about this wording, from twenty one communities around NSW.

Bill Lawson, a panel member, travelled from Tasmania specifically to be at the presentation

When he asked if he were able to take the book, Freedom Ride organiser Denise Markham said, “No bloody way!”

Denise said the presentation was a stepping stone. “From this presentation, we hope to be able to get the whole Panel. Then, we’ll hand over a replica book and a replica stick.”

Bill Lawson was impressed: both by the presentation and the significance of the message stick and message book. He pledged to raise the issue of a presentation by the Freedom Riders to the whole Panel at his next meeting.

FaCHSIA staff were also impressed. Kath Sneddon said, “I have had nothing but positive feedback from staff here at State Office and our ICC network.”

For the young riders, it was exciting to catch up with each other again and to continue the journey.

Denise said, “They want to make a difference in their country and being part of the Freedom Ride has inspired them to get out there and do it!”

No longer a conga line to a green future

Text: Madelaine Dickie

So imagine a conga line.

The line includes Karl the carpenter, Kylie from Koori Connect, Brendan, Sarah, a TAFE trainer and a mixture of young people: young people on work experience, in TTW and in the final hours of a TAFE horticultural course.

If you can imagine them all dancing their fingers, then you’re starting to get a sense of what the first assembly line for Apricus looked like; riotous, fun and for a good cause.

YC clients were assembling pump stations (which contain both pumps and controls) for Apricus’s solar hot water panels.

On the first assembly line, despite the tricky finger-work, two hundred units were made.

Alex Oates-Powel, one of young people, said it was tiring but satisfying. “We learnt about assembly, packing and a bit of hard work!”

Apricus received their first batch of pump stations three weeks ago.

Nick Humphreys, Apricus’s Supply Chain Manager, was impressed. “We are very happy with the quality of the assembly of the pump stations, it is exactly as we wanted it to be.”

However, despite being pleased with the work and committing to a three month trial period, Apricus have unexpectedly pulled out.

Mike Poot, Apricus’s Chief Operating Office, was emphatic that the young people’s performance was not the issue. He didn’t specify what the issue was, but was open to discussing other similar opportunities to support youthconnections.com.au.

Maggie Macfie, youthconnections.com.au’s CEO, was disappointed.

“In the short time we worked assembling Apricus’s product, we engaged young people who were homeless, have disabilities, have learning difficulties, have a juvenile justice background or who have been excluded from mainstream schooling . . .  This partnership with Apricus helped us to shape a social enterprise that would provide a small income to these young people and give them employability skills.”

Ms Macfie said social enterprises provide young people with on the job mentoring and offer an opportunity for them to improve their life chances and well being.

Any business owners interested in pursuing a social enterprise with youthconnections.com.au should contact Brendan Ritchens, Executive Manager for yG enterprise.

Grand tour for a grand crew

Text: Madelaine Dickie

If you were around Green Central or the YC Tuggerah office this week, you could be forgiven for thinking all youthconnections.com.au’s staff do is kick back over cappuccinos (world’s biggest morning tea!) or throw snags on the barbie and chew fat.

However the BBQ at Green Central on Monday 23rd May wasn’t your average fry up. Distinguished guests Jack Dusseldorp, Lesley Tobin and Teya Dusseldorp from the Dusseldorp Skills Forum swung past Green Central for a site tour.

youthconnections.com.au has a long history with the Dusseldrop Skills Forum. Back in ‘95 they were setting up a VET program called TRAC (training for retail and commerce) in which young people were hired out to employers. That’s when Maggie first came across them. 16 years later, the Dusseldorp Skills Forum is still trail-blazing, with a plan to set up a coalition of alternate learning providers around Australia, and with an eye on the exceptional youth services offered in Denmark.

“Here, on the Central Coast, we have a youth unemployment rate of 35%. That’s unacceptable! In Denmark, if they get to a youth unemployment rate of 5%, warning bells start ringing. We need to look to them as a model. We have a 35% youth unemployment rate and we do nothing. We do nothing!” said Maggie Macfie, CEO of youthconnections.com.au.

This isn’t entirely true, Maggs. What about Green Central?! Jack Dusseldorp was certainly impressed.

He spoke of how good it was to see a site constructed and used by young people. He noted the value of the food forest eco-system and the chicken pen. “A truly sustainable site begins with something we all need—food,” he said.

And food there was. The BBQ was attended by the ALESCO students, Erina High School’s Trade Start students, Terrigal High Year 11 Entertainment students from YC Radio and all YC’s resident apprentices and trainees.

Thanks to Jack, Lesley and Teya for coming to check it out: the Dusseldorp Skills Forum remains a source of inspiration for youthconnections.com.au’s creative and innovative direction.

Facelift for tourists

Text: Madelaine Dickie
Photos: Erin Ritchens

Never visited the Entrance Visitor Information Centre? Now's the time to get in there and check it out: a group of eight year 11 and 12 school-based trainees are giving the place a facelift. 

Work started on the 9^th of May and students began rendering and painting the outside walls of the centre. They’re also revamping the barbeque area and stage.

Most are completing their apprenticeships through YC Industry Link, and one through Erina High’s Trade Start program.

Brendan Ritchens, YG Enterprise Executive Officer, is impressed with the progress and the student’s work. “The kids have been great. They’ve been punctual and put in solid days. There hasn’t been a problem.”

The project is set to wind up on Tuesday.

A day in the garden at Green Central

Text: Abby Newham, Terrigal High School Work Placement student
Pics: Duncan McFarlane

On Friday the 13th May a team of Horticultural students and apprentices were involved in removing white clover fromt he site's ground and replacing it with lettuce.

Daniel McGlynn from Blue Haven is an apprentice in his second year of horticultural work. Daniel started off a bricklaying apprenticeship with youthconnections.com.au but decided to take on a horticultural apprenticeship instead. It was the best decision he ever made.

Ben Burtons, another member of the Horticultural team, has been at youthconnections.com.au for 12 months. For him, the major reasons behind choosing Horticulture, are his family's involvement in the industry, and because he enjoys it.

The Horticultural team at youthconnections.com.au also involved themselves in other environmental tasks, such as composting, planting, removing and re-positioning grass.

Tony Wells, Green Central garden manager and head of the horticultural team, finished the interview on a positive note, "All the students are really enthusiastic. Horticultural guys are brilliant."

 YC Media Kicks Off in Spanking New Studio

Text: Madelaine Dickie

YC Media moved from a poky, carpeted room to a studio decked out with all the essential tools for a contemporary media-makers trade. There’s Audacity for mixing audio, FinalCut for cutting film, and padded walls to bounce off for when production gets too hectic. 

On Monday, the first group of Entertainment students from Terrigal High School sampled the new studio as part of their compulsory year 11 VET work placement.

After day one, Abby Newham said, “It’s an experience like no other.”

Abby is one of 40 students who’ll be accessing the studio from Terrigal High School. Other schools in line include MacKillop Catholic College, St Peters, Ourimbah TAFE, and St Eddies.

Although the studio hasn’t been open a week, there are big plans for the space.

YC Media Manager Marg Meehan invites anyone cooking up some kind of production—from band rehearsals to play readings—to get in touch with her to discuss the possibilities. It doesn’t end here.

“Eventually I’d love to hold a live broadcast of QandA with Tony Jones. There’ll be space for hair and makeup, an edit suite . . . The audience can ask questions relevant to young people on the coast. Like about youth unemployment.”

There’s also a possible film, radio and television school in the pipeline.

Free health care advice at Youth Booth: don’t miss it!

Text: Madelaine Dickie

Are you worried you might have an STD, or a tooth turning black, or an outdated Medicare card? Perhaps you’re just keen to learn more about the effects of those Friday night sessions on the cans, or about how to get immunised; maybe you’ve got a mate who’s feeling depressed and you want some advice on mental health. Whatever the case may be, your questions will be tackled at the annual Youth Booth. And whatever you ask, is totally confidential.

This year Youth Booth is coming to Green Central. It will be held on Thursday next week (12th May) and 12 health workers from Central Coast Health will be hanging out and offering free advice and checkups. It’s a relaxed environment, with plenty of freebies, so make sure you get your name down if you’re interested.

youthconnections.com.au’s Kylie Cassidy is taking RSVPs, give her a buzz on 43502600 to reserve a spot—numbers are limited.   

Students promote alternate learning pathways

youthconnections.com.au is hosting an alternate learning pathways study tour as part of the Hunter Central Coast Innovation Festival.

The tour kicks off on the 11th May at 10am from Green Central, which is located at Gate 1 Kangoo Rd, Kariong.

Students engaged in alternate learning pathways, including the ALESCO Learning Centre and apprenticeships, will share their experiences.

Melanie Law says the day offers a first-hand view of how to keep young people engaged in education.

“It’s told by the kids themselves. We need to be innovative in the ways we keep young people engaged in education and training, who don’t quite fit that mainstream education mould.”

The event is one of over 15, all taking place on the Central Coast.

The Festival runs from the 6th-20th. and aims to connect businesses and develop the Hunter and Central Coast’s reputation as an innovative and entrepreneurial region. More information can be found at: http://hccinnovationfestival.com.au/ including links to tumblr blog, facebook and twitter.

If you’re interested in coming along, RSVP Melanie Law on 0429 210 031.

 Midnight Basketball at PCYC Bateau Bay

What are you up to this Friday night? Are you keen for a bit of basketball?

The PCYC at Bateau Bay is offering free registration for a 7.30pm to midnight basketball tournament. Uniforms and dinner are provided, along with a couple of games and a workshop.

If you’re worrying about how to get home—don’t. There’s transport if you live in Killarney Vale, Bateau Bay, The Entrance or Tumbi.

If this sounds like you, rustle up a crew before the 6th May and jump on to: http://www.midnightbasketball.org.au/LOCATIONS/BATEAU_BAY/Pages/default.aspx to register.

 Budding Brickies

Text: Sarah Webb         Sub: Madelaine Dickie

On Friday 15th April, a group of students completed a Statement of Attainment toward a Certificate III in Bricklaying.

The pre-vocational course ran for 10 weeks and aimed to equip the students with basic bricklaying skills.

This will support their ambition to snag a bricklaying apprenticeship.

Maria Kelly, Training Manager for YC Industry Link, said the course equips young people with the skills and confidence needed to transition into the workplace.

“All the students who have completed the course have proved their intention to gain skills in this area of construction. I have enjoyed working with them and they should be really proud of their achievements.”

YC Industry Link ran the course, and NSW Department of Education and Training and Australian Brick and Blocklaying Training Foundation Ltd provided funding.

Both support YC Industry Link’s commitment to providing young people the opportunity to gain skills in relevant industry areas.

Connecting people to people and people to place, the sixth annual 5 Lands Walk, was launched today at Terrigal.

Speaking at the launch, the President of the 5 Lands Walk Inc, Mr Con Ryan welcomed guests and took time to acknowledge the support of youthconnections.com.au, Koori Connect, and the Central Coast High School students in who recently completed the 2011 Freedom Ride.

In 2011, Koori Connect will play a significant role in connecting the 5 Lands Walk to its community and Mr Ryan acknowledged the role played by youthconnections.com.au Koori Connect Manager, Denise Markham, “We are honoured and proud to have Denise representing Aboriginal women on the Executive Committee”.

Mr Ryan welcomed the Freedom Ride students and acknowledged their involvement, as young leaders within their community.

Today, Freedom Ride student, Stacey Kennedy will become the new Guardian for the 5 Lands Walk Message stick, taking over from Jesse Lifu. Stacey, representing Aboriginal young people, will care for the message stick and bring it to all future events.

As further testimony of their new leadership roles with their community, Freedom Ride student, Michael Thompson will perform the traditional smoking ceremony.

Gavi Duncan, Aboriginal Heritage and Cultural Adviser for youthconnections.com.au, said, “The Central Coast is very rich in culture and we want to celebrate the stories and connections with place through the 5 Lands Walk.”

The 5 Lands Walk will take place on Saturday 18 June and traverses a 9km stretch of roads, beaches, footpaths and bush tracks. It offers outstanding coastal scenery and can be undertaken by any able-bodied adult or child.

Sarah Webb 0400 676 196

YCIL assists NBN roll-out on the Coast

Are you helping close the gap?

So far more than 140,000 Australians have pledged their support to Close the Gap, but there’s still much more to do. You can help raise awareness of the Indigenous health crisis by organising your own Close the Gap day event.

youthconnections.com.au will raise funds this Thursday to assist in improving health for Indigenous Australians. Bringing people together for this event will encourage them to learn more, discuss the issues and take action to achieve Indigenous health equality. Do your bit.

Wyong community on path to success

The project is a partnership between local construction company LA Group, group training company YC Industry Link, which supplied 12 young people to assist with the concreting whilst gaining their Certificate II in concreting; and several businesses in the Wyong area. 

Maggie MacFie, CEO of youthconnections.com.au  said they were pleased to be a part of a community initiative that assisted disadvantaged youth with their future careers.

“These young people have now had real experience working in a trade and that is a huge step toward better job opportunities down the track,” she said.

YouthTunes 2011 Winners Announced

Youth pushing the agenda

Freedom Ride latest news and media coverage

CLICK HERE to go to the Freedom Ride Media page to check out all the stories covering the journey.

SBS World News Australia 

Listen to the Freedom Ride 2011 World News Australia podcast from SBS. An insightful piece that looks into the changes since 1965, and the things that have stayed the same. CLICK HERE to go to the podcast and press play.

For regular news, journal entries and photos go to the Freedom Ride blog page. CLICK HERE.

Freedom Ride Launch

Freedom Ride article in the Central Cast Express Advocate, Wednesday 16th February, 2011.

Freedom Ride 2011 on ABC Radio National 

Gavi Duncan and a Freedom Ride student spoke with Angela Catterns on ABC Radio National Life Matters live from Dharriwaa Elders Group in Walgett. 

CLICK HERE to listen to the interview.

Freedom Ride 2011 on SBS news

SBS news covers Freedom Ride 2011. CLICK HERE to read the article and view the news item.

A New School That Isn’t Like School

Yesterday 64 students from across the Central Coast attended their first day of either year 9 or 10 at new alternative education school ALESCO.

Students and parents were given a tour of the grounds, with year 9 campus located at Berkeley Vale and year 10 campus located at youthconnections.com.au's Green Central site, Mt Penang Parklands. (Pictured)

ALESCO Principal Andrea Cingi who was there to meet the enrolled students said they could expect real life learning. 

"Part of our year 9 English Unit on Australian history will be read down by Tuggerah Lakes, which has a rich sense of past," she said.

Another priority of the independent school's culture is a 'hands-on' and self-paced learning approach.

"Many students here haven't been to school in quite some time, so it was really exciting to see them getting back into the rhythm of learning," said Ms Cingi.

CLICK HERE to go to the ALESCO website.

Students from Katherine Gorge National Park visit the Central Coast 

Central Coast talks National Broadband Network

Local businesses, community and Government members rallied at Green Central early this month to push for the Central Coast to become a priority area for early access to the National Broadband Network.

The forum discussed the positive impact the NBN would have on issues such as employment and effective operations for local businesses. 

Central Coast Regional Social Enterprise Strategy

To Nurture, To Grow

Next year Green Central will be home to alternate education school ALESCO, a latin word meaning 'to nurture, to grow.'  

Gosford Mayor and Councillors visit Mt Penang

"It's exceptional what you've been able to carve out of the bush," said Councillor Doyle after a tour of the site. 

"It's something youthconnections.com.au can be very proud of."

The Bush Tucker Cafe, Media Centre and Food Forest Ecosystem are the latest onsite developments and are nearing completion. Green Central hopes to open its gates to the community in early 2011.

The Job Next Door

What if you found your dream job in the same town you’ve lived your whole life? Right next door even. For 18-year-old Kariong local and proud Yawarrawarrka man Steve Moore, going to work every morning as a Horticulture trainee is just a run down the street. 

For nearly 12 months Moore has worked on site at Green Central, a four-acre sustainable and green-education wonderland located at Mt Penang Parklands. The project was initiated by not-for-profit organisation youthconnections.com.au, which was awarded Federal Government funding in late 2009, specifically aimed at providing training and future employment for Central Coast youth. Moore is one of 64 young people who will be employed throughout this project.

Making Tracks

youthconnections.com.au is supplying the young apprentices responsible for the new bike path being constructed in Wyong. We're making tracks with initiating more job opportunities for youth on the Central Coast!

With soaring power prices, knowing which appliances to pull the plug on would be invaluable information. Our igreen team was at the Green Living Fair in September doing just that. Offering the general public advice on how to make energy and water savings around the home, students also provided free home assessments. 

Soon Central Coast residents will also have the opportunity to experience an entire home setup with sustainable technologies. youthconnections.com.au's Green Central site at Mt Penang has a Sustainable Education Centre opening in 2011, where workshops, seminars and courses will be open to industry, businesses, school groups and the wider community who want to learn useful tips about sustainable living.

igreen has been operating for over 12 months and trains young people in sustainable home assessments. These green skills, which are becoming more pertinent across a number of industries, will ensure more job opportunities for our youth.    

For more information, please contact Mal Smith on (02) 4350 2600

Giving horticulture a hand

Wyoming Community Garden Project

Can Do Day - A hands-on experience

Piping chocolate mousse, patting animals and potting plants; yesterday over 50 Central Coast students with learning support needs got to try out a trade at Can Do Day.

 

Held in our training shed at Tuggerah, students explored TVET Access Courses available for study during year 11 and 12 that will contribute toward their HSC. Industry areas offered on the day included Hospitality, Hair and Beauty, Animal Care, Retail, Automotive and Horticulture.

youthconnections.com.au Pathway Advocate and Can Do Day Coordinator, Ashley McGeorge said it was a day to encourage students with learning support needs.

"We want to give these students confidence and get them involved in a TVET Access Course to further their employment options," he said.

TAFE Learning Teacher, Carmel Brown and DET Transition Support Teacher for the Central Coast, Cherie Risti have been in partnership with Central Coast schools for the past 10 years to ensure the success of TVET and TVET Access.

"TVET Access courses are the same as mainstream courses, but have smaller classes and are designed specifically for students with learning support needs," said Ms Brown.

Ms Risti said TVET aims to match the vocational needs of our young people and provide additional life skills.

"Students pick up other skills like travel training and socialisation with other kids that aren't from their school," she said.  

A Volvo Prime Mover was a major highlight of the day. Automotive Technician and Employee of Volvo Newcastle Paul Carey, gave students an insight into diagnosing mechanical problems with the use of a laptop synchronised with the trucks internal computer.  

A special thanks to all TAFE Trainers for their support and assistance on the day.

We'd also like to thank Daniel Leighman in Hospitality, Dianne Greenstreet and Kelly Shorrock in Animal Care, Leigh Coleman in Horticulture and Sonia Jones and Anita Mcmenamin in Hair and Beauty. Special thanks also to Paul Carey, Warren Brain and Phil Sweeney of Volvo Newcastle and to Christiana Mergan of Novaskill for presenting Retail and Meagan Martin and Hospitality students for beautiful coffees and service throughout the event.  

Photos taken by Terrigal High Entertainment student Matilda King