Junior council goes ‘live’ as new Junior Mayor is sworn in

Caelan Pascoe from Keebra Park State High School was officially sworn in today as the new City of Gold Coast Junior Mayor.

Mayor Tom Tate congratulated Caelan and said his community spirit was inspiring.

“Our Junior Council program has helped hundreds of young people like Caelan develop their leadership skills and learn about local government,” Mayor Tate said. 

“In return, through Junior Council, the voice of the city’s young people is heard. I know their insights are greatly valued in Council decision-making.”

In an innovative first for the program, the swearing-in ceremony was livestreamed.

Mayor Tate said live streaming would expand its reach.

“Live streaming allows us to tap into all 29 participating schools and reach an anticipated audience of 30,000 students,” he said.  

“It’s also a wonderful opportunity for family and friends who can’t make it to today’s swearing-in, to view the ceremony in real time.”

Caelan’s strengths in leadership and teamwork will give him an excellent foundation on which to build his skills in the role of Junior Mayor.

He is supported by Deputy Mayor Dung Dang from Southport State High School. The executive is:

“With 113 students from 29 schools across the Gold Coast, our Junior Council continues to be the largest Junior Council program in Queensland,” Mayor Tate said.

The Junior Council provides an opportunity for young people to 'have a voice’, raise issues, exchange ideas, discuss community issues and provide input into city planning, programs and services. It helps develop key skills such as communication, consultation, leadership and program development.

For information visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/juniorcouncil