YOUTH
The Shire supports and values the youth of our community, read below to find out what's available for Plantagenet youth including joining our Youth Advisory Group, things to do and services to access.
YOUTH ADVISORY GROUP
The Plantagenet Youth Advisory Group (PYAG) are active change makers in our community!
As part of PYAG, participants gain experience in things like community engagement, event management and community development. They give feedback to Council on issues relating to young people in the Shire. You can also get plenty of free training and valuable skills (and food!).
It’s fun, great for your CV and a good excuse to meet new people. If you’re aged 12-25 years, living, working or studying in Shire of Plantagenet why not come along to our next YAG catch up and see if it’s for you?
We meet fortnightly on Tuesdays during school term @ 12.25pm at the Mount Barker Community College, our project partner. Report to the Front Office and they will walk you through.
To find out more about the PYAG, email us on info@sop.wa.gov.au or call 9892 1111.
YOUTH ACTIVITIES
Skate Workshops
The Shire has two community skate parks, a great place to hang out, burn some energy and practice those tricks and skills. Remember to be kind and look out for fellow skaters and scooters.
There is a skate park in Kendenup and one in Mount Barker. You can find out more about these by Plantagenet skate parks
Keep an eye out on our Events Calendar » Shire of Plantagenet and follow us on Facebook for upcoming workshops and events.
Mountain Biking
The Shire actively supports the development of a trails and mountain biking community.
We have held a series of bike skills events to help everyone ride safely and build their confidence. This has included mountain biking days, bike maintenance and community challenges. Look out for more as part of our school holiday programs.
Don't forget: we also have a community bike repair station!
You can find this on Lowood Road, at the entry to Wilson Park, right next to the main public toilets (opposite the mechanics). It's great to see this community asset so well used and our kids of the Shire getting out to check their bike before heading out on another great adventure.
Ride locally after school!
If you're keen to go for a ride, visit The Yards, a community-built area where youth can hit the dirt located on Mitchell Street Mount Barker. Built by the local community in partnership with the Shire this is a great place close to town to practice those mountain biking skills.
For those looking to get out on their mountain bikes, join the local mountain bike group that meets weekly on Tuesday afternoons at 4.30 at Wilson Park.
School Holiday Programs
The Shire of Plantagenet coordinates four school holiday programs each year (Summer, Autumn, Winter and Spring).
Keep an eye out on our Events Calendar » Shire of Plantagenet and follow us on Facebook for upcoming workshops, events and programs.
If you have any ideas for school holiday programs send us an email and let us know! We might be able to get the idea happening - email info@sop.wa.gov.au
YOUTH SUPPORT SERVICES
Sometimes we all need a helping hand - check out some of the groups and organisations that can help you out.
Headspace
Headspace There is a Headspace Office in Albany that supports young people 12 - 25 with mental health concerns and/or substance use issues, and their family and friends. No referral is needed all services are free. To make an appointment call 9842 9871 or drop in and make time to have a chat with the staff.
Drug Aware
Drug Aware seeks to provide honest, credible and evidence-based information to young people in order to help them make informed decisions. Know what you're getting into. Get help, get the facts and stay safe. 24 hour help via phone and online - freecall 1800 098 024
Albany Youth Support Association (AYSA)
Are you aged between 12 and 25? Do you need a roof over your head or some extra support in your life? AYSA – Albany Youth Support Association may be able to help. Call 9842 2082 or email clientintake@aysa.org.au
Youth Focus
Youth Focus | Supporting young Western Australian people and their mental health operates a free, face-to-face and web-based professional counselling service for young people aged 12 to 25 who may be experiencing mental health challenges including suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety and self-harm. Referring a young person to the service is simple. An informal referral can be made by family members, carers, GPs and health professionals, or by young people themselves. They also accept young people with Mental Health Care Plans from their GP. If you are experiencing any of these feelings, you are not alone and there are people that can help you. Please call Youth Focus on (08) 6266 4333
Youth Legal Services
Youth Legal Services provides free and confidential legal services to young people aged 25 years and under. Children and young people can access our legal advice line during office hours, for free 1800 199 006.
Lifeline
Lifeline's 24 hour crisis support service providing access to suicide prevention and mental health support services for young people. Lifeline also provides an online crisis support chat with an Online Crisis Supporter – visit www.lifeline.org.au during the evenings, 7 days a week, for confidential support and assistance.