Doors open on new youth hub and the future

The Wilbur Street Youth Centre has already been embraced by local young people since keys were handed over to the operator in November.

Mayor Jon Raven said the youth centre had been welcomed by both the community and the young people who would be frequenting it.

“Young people make up 30 per cent of our city’s population, but they are 100 per cent our future, so it’s important to create spaces for them to thrive and grow,” Cr Raven said.

“They’ve long been keen to have somewhere they could socialise and connect and this centre is now delivering that vision.”

Located adjacent to Logan Central Library, the centre features a ‘hang-out’ zone, indoor multi-purpose court, quiet room, rehearsal studio, dedicated First Nations space, multi-purpose area, creative maker space, technology space, commercial kitchen, laundry and amenities.

It will be operated by local provider Rekon Youth Foundation, which was selected after an extensive tender process.

The organisation already operates programs at Yarrabilba, Springfield Central and Deception Bay for people aged 12 to 17-years-old.

Rekon Youth Foundation Director Rolando Pisia said the opportunity to run the centre aligned perfectly with the organisation’s heart and mission.

“Through a focus on upskilling and providing pathways to employment and education we want to empower young people and provide a safe space for them to discover their potential, build meaningful connections and create brighter futures while giving them a chance to explore their passions and talents,” Mr Pisia said.

“Sports programs will promote teamwork and healthy lifestyles while building resilience, character and lifelong friendships.

“There will also be a focus on cultural education and collaboration, celebrating diversity and fostering understanding among youth from all backgrounds.

“This will be a space where young people feel seen, valued and supported to thrive in every area of their lives and where hope is reignited, dreams are sparked and lives are transformed.”

The $5.04 million centre is co-funded by the Australian Government, the Queensland Government and Logan City Council.

The Queensland Government provided $2.02 million of funding as part of the South East Queensland Community Stimulus program, which aims to fast-track investment in new infrastructure and community assets that create jobs and deliver economic stimulus to local communities.

The project also received $840,000 of Australian Government funding through the Investing in our Communities Program, designed to drive economic opportunity and provide improved amenity, accessibility and liveability outcomes.

Minister for Local Government Ann Leahy said it was fantastic to see the doors opening on this City of Logan space, where young locals can come to learn new skills, make new friendships and have fun in a safe and secure environment.

“Queensland Government funding for these kinds of community projects is all about supporting councils to deliver great outcomes for their community.”

Federal Treasurer and Member for Rankin Jim Chalmers said the centre was a space for young people in the community to come together, connect and feel comfortable.

“Having grown up in our community and lived here all my life, I know the importance of having places for young people to enjoy,” Mr Chalmers said.

“As your local member of Parliament and as the nation’s Treasurer, I’m proud to be part of a government that’s delivering important projects like this one in our local area.

“The Wilbur Street Youth Centre is a prime example of the fantastic things we can achieve for our community when all levels of government work together.”

For more information about the Wilbur Street Youth Centre, go to logan.qld.gov.au/wilbur-street-youth-centre

ADDITIONAL QUOTES

City Lifestyle Chair Councillor Tony Hall said the centre had been designed in consultation with the community and local youth providers to be a safe, welcoming and vibrant space that responds to the needs and interests of Logan’s youth.

“We wanted to ensure it would be a great resource for the local community and something which local young people want to be part of,” Cr Hall said.

“This will be a place for Logan’s youth between the ages of 12 and 24 years to meet, engage and participate in a wide variety of activities that are not just sport related and we hope it will be well used.”