Bombala Youth Booth Inc.

youth booth plans

by Jeanne Medlecott

The need for a youth centre in Bombala has been raised by sisters Jackie and Nicole Mellon.
At the last meeting of Snowy Monaro Regional Council held in Bombala on Thursday January 17th, councillors heard from the pair outlining their proposal.
Jackie and Nicole having been quietly working on the proposal for 18 months, and after Jackie moved to Bombala in August last year, "it has been full steam ahead". In the 12 page proposal, The Bombala Youth Booth, the women have outlined the problem, the solution , marketing, funding, organization, all the way through to start up and ongoing costs. The aim of the youth booth is to help create strong vibrant and solution approach to the communities of Bombala and surrounds. It would include a qualified youth worker, a service the Mellon's say is not currently offered in town.
 "A committee has been formed and a board created that includes two school teachers, council youth workers and council representatives" Jackie Mellon said.
"We are hoping to encourage the youth to participate in helpful programs such as helping the elderly with yard maintenance for a minimum fee."
"There are also plans to run trade and creative workshops, mental health initiatives and family fun days to name a few things." The sisters said they hoped to keep up with activities and events on a regular basis in town. "We want to see young people getting out of the house and doing something worthwhile" Jackie said.
This is my dream, what I have always wanted to do ever since I have been a young child". "When I found Bombala, and realised there is nothing for young people here, I thought it would be a perfect place to start". 
"I have randomly spoken to young people and asked them what they do, and their response is,'they don't!'"
"If you keep the centre active, I think young people will definitely come along" Jackie said. 
The start up costs are estimated at around $40,000. with funding proposed to come from grants, donations and sponsorships.
Now the sisters are looking for suitable premises from where the Youth Booth can be permanently located and operate.