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REPORTS FROM THE DIRECTOR CORPORATE SERVICES
Youth leaders in parliament
By Jonathon Howard
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THE VOICES of students, our leaders of tomorrow, filled the Legislative Council over a four-day sitting week in mid-July at the NSW Parliament, as part of the year-long youth leadership and engagement program.
Among the fresh faces was Tweed Shire year 10 student Braydon Monahan, 15, who said it was an “awesome” experience.
The students debated and passed nine important committee reports, including nearly 100 recommendations across a range of portfolios such as Aboriginal affairs, education, women’s affairs and inclusion and diversity.
“Overall, it has been an awesome chance to learn more about the parliamentary experience,” he said.
Braydon said the best parts of Youth Parliament were his committee’s debate on energy, environment and climate change.
“The first question time was pretty cool,” he said, despite some initial nerves before he found his voice in parliament.
“At first my knees were shaking and my palms were super sweaty, but now I’m able to get up there and I’m able to speak really well, I don’t need to have the speech in front of me, I think my confidence has really grown,” he said.
On speaking in relation to the importance of advocating for rural and regional NSW, Braydon said he feels like the bush can be forgotten.
The senior high school student said he might consider a career in politics.
“I used to think that politics was just holding office, but I realise to go into a career in politics is not just holding office and representing your state or electorate, it is way more than that,” he said.
On representing Tweed for the next six months of the program, Braydon said he’s embraced the role with gusto.
“I have been told that there are MPs that want to get in touch with me after this program to hear more about me and my dreams and aspirations, which is awesome,” he said.
Braydon speaking in Parliament Students found their voices on some of the most important topics facing the country
Volunteer grants
THERE ARE plenty of active grants available this year, including the 2022 Richmond Volunteer Grants Program.
Member for Richmond Justine Elliot recently announced that applications are now open for grants between $1,000 and $5,000 to support eligible not-for-profit community organisations.
“Volunteers play such a vital role, and these grants will support community groups right across our region,” Ms Elliot said.
“Local organisations can use the funding to buy much-needed small equipment items, such as computers or first-aid kits.
Ms Elliot said the Tweed and broader Richmond areas have so many dedicated volunteer groups who give their time to help others in our community.
“I encourage them to apply for these grants,” she said.
The Richmond Volunteer Grant Program closes on September 30.
Our special Tweed Palliative Support volunteer team with president Meredith Dennis (Middle)
Todd Woodbridge Cup
Tennis NSW Schools Teams Challenge
By Jonathon Howard
MURWILLUMBAH tennis courts hosted the Todd Woodbridge Cup recently, with participating schools from across the Tweed taking part.
Students were eager to demonstrate their skills on the new surface, which includes the mini courts for young players.
Master Club professional tennis coach Gemma Eaton hosted the event, which she said attracted 150 students from six local schools in grades three and four.
Murwillumbah Public School has some solid players with its students winning the day.
“Our new mini courts allow for greater participation and development for children,” Ms Eaton said.
“They are used for lessons and school groups. They are also used for Pickleball, a bat and ball game that’s fun, easy and low impact. Sessions are available daily.
Ms Eaton said it was great to see emerging tennis players having a hit with their peers.
“More people, playing more tennis, for longer,” she said.
“We’re also hosting our official opening of the new mini courts on Friday, September 16, from 3.30pm.
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