Applications are now open for an exciting opportunity for six Northern Beaches teenagers to travel to Outback NSW for a once in a lifetime experience.
To coincide with National Youth Week Celebrations, Northern Beaches Council is looking for Youth Ambassadors aged between 14 and19 to represent Council in a Youth Exchange Program.
Mayor Michael Regan said the program is a partnership between Northern Beaches and Brewarrina Shire Councils.
“This unique opportunity, now in its 17th year, aims to promote friendship, respect and understanding of life at the beach versus the bush.
“The trip is fully funded and will give our young people a taste of what’s it’s like to live in the bush including a visit to Lightning Ridge, sheep shearing and fishing on the Barwon River.
“If you know a local young person aged 14-19 who would like to experience life in a remote community for a week then apply now,” Mayor Regan said.
Ella Stoddart, 18-years of age, was one of last year’s Northern Beaches Youth Ambassadors and said the trip was by far the best experience she has ever had.
“I learnt so much more than I could have hoped. I was able to immerse myself in the unique history and culture of the community which was so enriching. This experience definitely gave me a broader outlook and understanding into what living in outback Australia is like,” she said.
As part of the Exchange, Council recently hosted four young Aboriginal teenagers from Brewarrina. The group travelled over 800 kilometres and enjoyed a jam-packed itinerary including learning to surf, meeting lifeguards, visiting Luna Park, riding the Manly ferry, visiting Koori Radio station and shopping up a storm.
When asked if they enjoyed their say, 13-year-old Sarafina said, “I loved this trip because it was my first time on a ferry, plane, train and in Sydney. I learnt that Sydney is a busy place with traffic! I learnt to surf and that the beach can be rough.”
For more information or to apply visit northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au or email justin.burke@northerbeaches.nsw.gov.au