Youth Activities
Skate Workshops
The Shire hosts regular skate, scooter and BMX skills workshops at Mount Barker and Kendenup skate parks. Keep an eye out on our events calendar and follow us on Facebook for upcoming workshops and events. This video is a taster from workshops in April 2025.
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, including mountain biking days, bike maintenance and community challenges.
The Pwakkenbak Mountain Bike Trails project was delivered in partnership with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, and in consultation with Noongar Elders and the Mount Barker Aboriginal Progress Association in 2025.
Award-winning WA trail development firm Three Chillies Design designed and constructed 4.8-kilometres of single-track cross country and downhill mountain bike trails, with community engagement with local mountain bike clubs and the wider community. This video is a taster from a Trails Open Day event in March 2025.
The Yards is an area located on Mitchell Street in Mount Barker where youth can hit the dirt for an after-school ride. Built by the local community in partnership with the Shire, this is a great place close to town to practice your skills.
Local mountain biking group, the Mount Barker Mountain Bike Club, has a Facebook page.
School Holiday Programs
The Shire coordinates four school holiday programs each year (Summer, Autumn, Winter and Spring).
Keep an eye out on our events calendar and follow us on Facebook for upcoming workshops, events and programs.
If you have suggestions for school holiday programs, send us an email to [email protected]
To view The Shire's School Holiday Programs Terms and Conditions, click HERE
Youth Support Services
We all need a helping hand sometimes. Check out some of the groups and organisations which can help you out.
Headspace
Headspace Albany supports young people aged 12 to 25 years old with mental health concerns and/or substance use issues, and their family and friends. All services are free, no referral needed. To make an appointment, call (08) 9842 9871or drop in to have a chat with the staff.
Drug Aware
Drug Aware seeks to provide honest, credible and evidence-based information to young people 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 - free call 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 (08) 9842 2082 or email [email protected]
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 years old 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 who can help. Please call Youth Focus on (08) 6266 4333
Youth Legal Services
Youth Legal Services provide free and confidential legal services to young people aged 25 years and under. Children and young people can access our free legal advice line on 1800 199 006 during office hours.
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.
Stuff You Need to Know videos
The City of Albany developed a great series of videos to walk you through 'adulting' stuff - ranging from renting a property and cooking healthy meals to basic car maintenance and responsible pet ownership. You can find the videos on YouTube.