The City of Greater Geelong’s fourth Youth Council has been announced, with 12 young people being chosen to serve as the official ‘youth voice’ to Council for 2022.
The Youth Council will act as an official advisory committee to Council, with three members representing each of the four wards: Bellarine, Brownbill, Kardinia and Windermere.
The Youth Council members will meet once a month and provide a youth perspective to Council on important issues such as mental health awareness, bullying, climate change, and inclusion.
Junior members were chosen from more than 100 nominees, all aged between 12 and 17, by members of youth advisory groups in their respective wards.
Deputy Mayor Trent Sullivan congratulated the new members and acknowledged the critical role the Youth Council plays in representing the views of Geelong’s young people.
“The youth of Geelong have shown remarkable resilience during the pandemic, and now more than ever, we need to hear their perspectives on the issues that are important to them,” the Deputy Mayor said.
“The 12 youth councillors are an impressive group and represent a diverse mix of backgrounds. We know they’ll do an outstanding job of representing their peers.”
The 2022 Youth Council members are:
Bellarine Ward
Indiana Roberts, 14
Genaya Rowbottom, 17
Timothe Garnier, 12
Brownbill Ward
Tahlia Baronessa, 17
Imogen O’Shannessy,14
Bailey Strahan, 14
Kardinia Ward
Isobel Rose, 13
Sarah Tolan, 13
Ashlin Bobby, 14
Windermere Ward
Charlee Hide, 13
Angelle Mackay, 15
Adrian Wyres, 15
The first meeting for the 2022 Youth Council will take place on Monday 7 February, where the junior members will set their key priorities for the year ahead.
Junior members will work closely with councillors in their respective wards as part of the Councillor Connect Mentoring Program, which leads to improved leadership skills, a better understanding of local government and greater confidence in the young people participating.
