Gunbalanya youth enjoy huge school holiday program

Gunbalanya community was treated to one of the most comprehensive holiday programs with weekly activities to keep youngsters engaged over the six-week long July vacation period made possible through the generous support of the Northern Territory Government (NTG). Council’s Youth Sport and Recreation team coordinated the programs in partnership with ‘Growing a Smoke Free Generation’ - Youth Peer support program (Top End Health) to bring daily activities including sports, music, arts, crafts, health checks were available for children and young people in Gunbalanya to enjoy.  
The holidays kicked off with Live Vibe Music coming down to Gunbalanya for two weeks to capture some of the creative talents of youngsters through workshops in craft, art, music and film. 
With the support of NTG Sports Vouchers, Athletics NT, Gymnastics NT and Circosis were on hand to deliver a host of fun and active programs, while the Youth Centre opened its doors for a chilled drop in zone with arts, crafts, computer games and music. 
A NAIDOC celebration was also held with RISE Ventures, Department of Health, Anglicare, Team Health, Centrelink, Council’s Youth Sport and Rec, NT Police, Safe House and the Clinic, with a barbecue, jumping castle, soccer match and various fun games at the oval for a fun family day out.
In the final weeks of holidays, Council engaged artist Shaun Lee to work with the young people to paint a vibrant new mural outside the Gunbalanya Youth Centre.
Over the six weeks, some 100 children and young people enjoyed many opportunities to engage with activities catering to a variety of interests and age groups.   
Council’s Youth Sport & Recreation team will continue to build on the success of this format for delivering future holiday programs.