Phat Rager

Council's Youth program known as YAC has been developed to allow our young people to have a say about what is important to them, what are barriers for them and what they want in our district. They help to plan and execute events that meet these needs.

On May 27th one of their long term goals was met, as the much awaited ‘Phat Rager’  became a reality.

Previously COVID restrictions had put limitations on singing and dancing forcing them to put a hold on the plans.

The ‘Phat Rager’ was held at The Yankalilla Football Club with music and MC skills brought to all by our local DJ extraordinaire DJ Hazzman who kept the tunes pumping and the excitement real.

A big Thank you to our volunteers Holly Dauk, and Amanda Alexander and the two supporting staff on the night, Stella Russo and Amber Nancarrow for keeping everyone fed and safe.

The ‘Phat Rager’ named by the YAC was a big success with the event providing the largest engagement we have had with the older teens.

Watch this space as we look at replicating this event in the future with other community partners.

Art of Exploring Nature

On Sunday June 26th a small group of young people were fortunate enough to experience the art of exploring nature as a skill for grounding oneself, being mindful and showing gratitude.

During the two hours spent together participants learnt how to take stock and notice the small things when feeling overwhelmed, how to find beauty in the everyday and excitingly how to create it.

Participants were encouraged to let go of inhibitions and explore with different mediums on canvas under the calm supervision of skilled artist and psychologist Jane Smeets.

Who knew using mud on canvas could create such beauty? Did you know sometime a pink flower will actually create a blue colour when rubbed?

Our excited giggly group was quickly calmed as everyone found their own space in nature and set to work. It is safe to say everyone left the beautiful surround of the Great Gorge Walk feeling lighter, stronger and a little more skilled.

Each participant took home newfound skills and a piece of art to share.

One participant (12 years old) said “It was really fun! I didn’t know what to expect, but not that! I love my art and I am proud that I did that. I will definitely try to use art next time I feel like I don’t know what to do and am feeling stressed.”