Hindmarsh Shire Council announced their 2019 Youth Council with a celebration launch last Wednesday 20th February at the Jeparit Memorial Hall.

Hindmarsh Shire Council CEO Greg Wood welcomed all in attendance before Mayor Ron Ismay congratulated the successful applicants on their civic appointments. Mr Wood then introduced each new youth councillor with the Mayor presenting commemorative certificates and name badges recognising their new roles.

West Ward
Brodie Kennedy
Ruby James
Lani Elliott
Trinity Cannell

East Ward
Teo Haines
Rebekah Albrecht
Jordan Laverty
Tehya Clarke

North Ward
Jordan Leach
Nicholas Roll
Macy Fuller
Jasmine Robins

Also included is Danni Haebich, who is the recipient of the 2019 Young Citizen of the year award.

Following a sit-down meal, the evening’s two special guest speakers provided those in attendance with their unique perspectives on growing up in the Wimmera region.

Ms. Helen Thomson, manager governance and human services at Hindmarsh Shire Council, who has recently completed a Bachelor of Law and Legal Practice and a Bachelor of Arts detailed her experience of returning home.

Georgia Gelligen, herself a former youth councillor, spoke about growing up in Rainbow and the adjustments she has had to make since moving to Geelong to study a degree in criminology and psychological science.

Cr Ismay said that Council is excited to see what the youth council achieves over the next twelve months.

“We really enjoyed welcoming our new youth councillors to the Hindmarsh Shire Council and we can’t wait to see the outcomes of the initiatives that the 2019 Youth Council comes up with.

“It was also pleasing to see so many family and friends join us in celebrating these young leaders in our community.

“Council is extremely proud of these young people and is eagerly anticipating the initiatives and directions they take as youth leaders within the Shire.”

The evening was also an opportunity to thank Hindmarsh Shire youth and early years’ officer Meg Hall, who is leaving Council after almost 5 years in the role. Ms. Hall was instrumental in the establishment of the youth council and has been a tireless advocate for youth throughout Hindmarsh Shire.

Pictured above: Hindmarsh Shire’s fifth Youth Council joined by Hindmarsh Shire Councillors Cr. Rob Gersch, Cr. Deb Nelson, Cr. Tony Schneider, Cr. Ron Lowe and Mayor Cr. Ron Ismay. Photo contributed.