General News
25 April, 2024
Youth capitalise on training
MORE than 1000 young people across the region built their skills and confidence through the VicHealth-funded FUSE South West program.
The small towns place-based vocational and mental health connection training program responded to the needs identified by young people in the south west region.
There were 228 participants across 16 workshops held in Moyne Shire as part of the FUSE South West program, four of which were held in Mortlake, with a further 36 Corangamite Shire residents participating in two workshops.
A diverse range of opportunities were delivered as part of the program, which aimed to develop connections, personal growth, self-confidence, and wellbeing.
The training also sought to boost local skills shortages through free workshops which included first aid training, pool lifeguard training, traffic management, food handlers, introduction to shearing, defensive driving, barista basics and more.
Moyne Shire Council mayor Cr Ian Smith said the program created positive impact for young people by providing cost-free qualifications.
“FUSE also had a role in bolstering local employment opportunities, fostering community resilience, and positively influencing general wellbeing,” he said.
“We are grateful to all the young co-design participants who generously shared their insights and ideas, contributing to the development of a program that truly resonated with the aspirations of local young people.
“The targeted workshops not only responded to the immediate needs identified by young individuals but also fostered social connections crucial for community vitality.”
FUSE South West was delivered by Moyne Shire in partnership with YACVic Rural, Glenelg Shire Council, Glenelg Southern Grampians LLEN, Food and Fibre Great South Coast, Community South West and Barwon Health.
The full final report is available from FUSE South West at https://www.moyne.vic.gov.au/Fuse.