News

Youth get their glow on

By Emily Donohoe

Oct 14, 2024

Campaspe Shire Council staff Will Mitchell, Kane Stewart, Qader Karimi, Jess Ibbeson and Lachlan Olive at the Glow Up Youth Disco. Photo: Supplied

Campaspe Shire Council hosted its Glow Up Youth Disco on Friday, October 4, attracting young people from around the region for a night of fun.

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Hosted at Fuzion Café in Echuca, around 85 12- to 17-year-olds enjoyed music, dancing and community, co-designed by local youth.

The event looked to provide an inclusive and safe space for LGBTQIA+ young people and their allies, with a DJ, photo booth and Just Dance sessions providing entertainment.

Keep in Touch also brought the KiT Van along to provide a chill-out space for attendees.

Council chief executive Pauline Gordon emphasised the need for inclusive spaces for young people to connect and the importance of accessibility across the shire.

“Feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive, and the event showcased the strength and vibrancy of the local LGBTQIA+ community,” she said.

“It was wonderful to be able to provide free transportation to and from the event for young people from Kyabram, Rochester and Tongala, ensuring access for all youth in our region.”

Fuzion Café catered the event, supplying free food and drinks for guests, including fairy floss and popcorn.

The Rainbow Community Angels joined in on the festivities, providing a safe and welcoming entrance to the party.

The disco was organised through collaboration between council’s Youth Community Development Team, Echuca Regional Health, headspace Echuca and Thorne Harbour Health.

Funding was provided by the Victorian Government’s Pride Events and Festivals Fund and FReeZA Program.