Susanna Freymark
The funding for the Casino Youth Hub is for five years, Casino RSM Club chief executive John Walker said.
”Possibly forever,” he said to the people gathered for the opening of the hub on Walker Street last night, Friday, August 22.
It’s a long term commitment to having a space for young people aged 13—19 years in Casino.
Youth Hub coordinator Bianca Rayner is thrilled.
“It’s a safe and inclusive space,” Bianca said.
She likened her role as “building the ship.”
“I want young people to be the captains.”
Bianca is keen to hear what young people want to do in the space.
There are computers, a place to do homework quietly, kick boxing, an art space and more.
We’d like to showcase what young people can do such as in Battle of the Bands, a youth cook book and a roving art showcase, she said.
There is a strict no drugs or alcohol policy and the hub has a Code of Conduct regarding respecting staff and each other.
Bianca said they were going to run a Life Skills Program to teach how to check the oil and tyres on your car, how to cook and other useful skills for young people.
Initially, the hub will be open Tuesday—Thursday at 2pm—5pm and on Friday evenings. This will change as she assess the need from young people.
Kye Martin will be offering free kick boxing classes on Friday nights for 12—16 year olds.
Kye runs AJM Hybrid Kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts. He is a former heavyweight state champion.
John said the RSM Club was synonymous with funding sport.
”For some time, the club has wanted to help young people,” he said.
”In the last couple of years — what the town was crying out for was a space — a central place. The club has decided to invest in youth.”
The RSM Club will be taking a backseat in the running of the club, John said. The club will offer support and equipment.
Bianca said there will always be one or two staff at the hub, there are security cameras and the Code of Conduct will be something everyone has to follow.
A steering committee has been behind the set-up of the hub including Troy Freeburn, Sharon Davidson, Ruby Beckenham, Bianca Rayner and Trudy Lamont.
