Call goes out for young Golden Plains councillors

THE Golden Plains Shire has put the call out for young people to step into a leadership role by joining the Golden Plains youth council.

Expressions of interest are now open for an unlimited number of positions and can be completed by emailing the shire’s youth development team at [email protected] or phoning 5220 7111.

Young people aged 12 to 25 are encouraged to apply, with the youth council meeting on the second Tuesday of each month at the Golden Plains Youth Hub in Bannockburn or online.

The youth council is the official young people’s advisory group to the council and provides a direct channel for them to share perspectives and make their voices heard.

Youth councillors – there are now three – gain leadership experience and training to help them contribute to community planning work and advocate on youth issues.

Golden Plains mayor Cr Owen Sharkey encouraged young people from throughout the municipality who are interested in making a positive difference to put their hands up.

“The youth council is for young people who care about their community, want leadership or government experience, are curious, motivated, and want to make a difference and wish to grow into a future leader,” Cr Sharkey said.

“There is no prior experience needed to join – we’re looking for passionate individuals who are eager to make a positive difference to Golden Plains.

“This is an opportunity for young people to have their voices heard, be given the chance to help others and gain valuable leadership experience.”

The youth council was formerly the Golden Plains Youth Activation Committee, which was formed in 2022 and moved to a formal youth council after a decision in July last year.

Its terms of reference were developed by young people themselves and outline its governance and operational model. They were adopted by councillors at their July meeting.