22 September 2025
In the final meeting of their tenure on Thursday 23 October, the 2025 Southern Downs Youth Council will be presenting a series of innovative, youth-driven proposals aimed at improving youth engagement and wellbeing opportunities across the region for Council’s consideration.
Working in dedicated project teams, this year’s cohort has spent months developing ideas that reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of young people in the Southern Downs, with a view to understanding the process and mechanics of presenting realistic and viable projects for approval.
The four proposals—Inspired Youth (Teen Talent Workshops), Liveable Youth (Sport & Rec for Teens), Healthy Youth (Teen Mental Health), and Productive Youth (Biosecurity Avengers)—have been shaped through collaboration with councillor mentors and Council staff.
Mentor and Portfolio Councillor for Inspired Communities Cr Morwenna Harslett praised the Youth Council’s progress and vision.
“Since their induction earlier this year, these twenty-one Year 10 students from nine schools have grown into a dynamic think-tank of future leaders,” Cr Harslett said.
“Their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas have been inspiring as we have worked together to address the needs and aspirations of our younger community.
“In preparing their proposals, each group has tackled real-world challenges including budgeting, marketing, stakeholder engagement and succession planning to ensure their proposals are visionary and viable.
“From designing websites and posters to coordinating with schools and navigating approval processes, the students have shown remarkable initiative and professionalism, proving that the future of the Southern Downs is in capable hands.
“I’m confident their final presentations will reflect the passion and leadership they’ve shown all year.”
Mentor and Portfolio Councillor for Liveable Communities Cr Sheryl Windle said this year’s group had embraced the learning journey and grown throughout the process.
“These Year 10 students have embraced a valuable learning journey,” Cr Windle said.
“They’ve demonstrated maturity well beyond their years, working collaboratively to shape their ideas into a compelling proposal.
“From concept development to preparing for their final presentation, every step has given them a real-world understanding of community engagement and the importance of following due process.
“It’s been a pleasure to work alongside such enthusiastic, thoughtful and capable young people who’ve shown a genuine eagerness to learn and lead.”
Mentor and Portfolio Councillor for Productive Communities Cr Carla Pidgeon said the program had offered students a rewarding introduction to leadership, empowering them to take ownership of their ideas and understand the value of civic participation.
“This experience has given students a genuine taste of leadership and civic responsibility,” Cr Pidgeon said.
“They approached the task with confidence and care, showing that young people are more than ready to contribute to meaningful change.
“Watching them grow in confidence and capability has been a highlight of the program, and I have no doubt they’ll continue to make a positive impact in their schools, communities and beyond.”
Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton agreed and said the youth council program is a launch pad for leadership.
“The Youth Council is proof that age is no barrier to impact and that young people have the ideas, energy and drive to shape our region,” Mayor Hamilton said.
“If you care about your community, you already have what it takes to lead.
“And once you turn 18, you’re not just watching from the sidelines—you can run for Council, represent your peers and community, and be part of the decisions that matter.”
What is the Southern Downs Youth Council?
The Southern Downs Youth Council Program was established in 2018 to provide the regions’ youth with an opportunity to develop essential leadership skills, engage with community issues and gain insights into the workings of local government.
The program helps participants understand how Council works, become informed about community issues, and engage in direct, ongoing communication with decision-makers about what matters to them.
Throughout their term, Youth Council members participate in a variety of community events, including ANZAC Day, Australia Day, Citizenship Ceremonies, NAIDOC Week, Youth Week and Carols in the Park.
The 2025 Southern Downs Youth Council includes representatives from Allora P-10 State School, Assumption College Warwick, Killarney P-10 State School, School of Total Education, SCOTS PGC College, St Joseph’s School, Stanthorpe State High School, Warwick Christian College and Warwick State High School.
Visit www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/living-here/youth for more information on the Southern Downs Youth Council.
Last edited date 24 Sep 2025