Max Hatzoglou
The Youth Junction based at the Visy Carers Hub hosted four events in Sunshine to launch its new chill zone for young people to gather with friends in a comfortable space.
A brightly coloured glow in the dark pavement, cheerful green benches and planter boxes featured in the chill zone aims to provide a unique and inviting area for service-users and staff connected to the Visy Cares Hub.
The hub provides a range of youth-focused services including Headspace, Orygen, YSAS, WestJustice, Youth Now, Charis Mentoring, Brimbank Learning Futures, the Youth Junction and AAFRO Ltd.
The events funded by the justice and community safety department to launch the chill zone included an Open Mic Arvo, Hip Hop Arvo, Chalk About It and a Hoop Comp.
Youth Junction chief executive Jo Malcolm-Black said it was an important project for the youth.
“We finally feel like Sunshine is back, so we are very appreciative of the commitment of Brimbank council to recognising how important it is to have an area where young people can gather,” Ms Malcolm-Black said.
“The Friday evening events have been successful drawing in young people and the general public to celebrate and bring awareness to the new zone.
“The Zone is an on-going space for young people, and it is hoped that despite the cooler weather, it will be well utilised by our broader community, whether it offers a place for friends to meet up, or an opportunity to use the broader youth facilities of the Visy Cares hub.
Brimbank mayor Jasmine Nguyen said council were grateful for the support and funding from the justice and community safety department to provide a space for youths to feel connected and valued.
“As I was able to attend the first activity, I really appreciate how welcoming the area now is.
“It was great to get involved and enjoy the last of the Autumn sun on a great day.”
