Community and business sector unites at ShoreTrack Open Shed event

ABOUT 100 people gathered at ShoreTrack on Thursday 16 April for the organisation’s Open Shed event, making it one of the largest gatherings held at the skills centre to date.

The event brought together local businesses, industry representatives, community members and young people to experience ShoreTrack’s morning circle and learn more about the programs on offer.

Nambucca Valley Mayor Gary Lee said he was proud to support the event and meet young people undertaking training in trades, agriculture and hospitality.

“ShoreTrack, under the guidance of CEO Jill Ashley, Fatty Ireland and others, has come a long way since its inception,” he said.

“It still delivers its goal of providing wrap-around services and skills to disengaged youth and it is heartening to see so many young people happily engaged in meaningful training, and for many, starting the journey into meaningful employment opportunities as well.”

CEO Jill Ashley said the Open Shed event had achieved its goal of connecting local businesses, industry and young people from across the region.

“It’s always lovely to have the community in the shed and today was one of our largest gatherings, which is great.

“It’s one of our pillars here at ShoreTrack that our young people need to connect to their community and connect to their Country,” she said.

“The event gave our young people the chance to show off how they had grown and it also helped to change the perception about the potential of young people in our community, an important outcome.”

The event allowed visitors to meet the young people involved in ShoreTrack and see firsthand the skills and confidence they are developing through the program.

ShoreTrack was one of several incorporated not-for-profit organisations to receive funding through Nambucca Valley Council Community Grants Program.

Nambucca Valley Council contributed $3557 towards the Open Shed event.

By Mick BIRTLES