The City of Greater Bendigo Youth Council has commenced its second year of a two-year term with six new, and eleven returning Youth Councillors for 2026.
New Youth Councillors Anya Singh, Ava Parker, Bailey Leach, Grace Wells, Hayden Ferrari and Simone Richter have joined returning Youth Councillors Aidan Sanders, Alyssa Beaton, Amelia Westbrook, Annie Dalton, Bailey Dolan, Ella Filsell, Freiya O'Connor, Hamish Knight, Lucas Thredgold, Mollie Hartje and Rafferty Brasier.
The Youth Council met yesterday with Alyssa Beaton elected as Youth Mayor and Ella Filsell and Bailey Dolan installed as Deputy Mayors.
Youth Mayor Alyssa Beaton said her appointment as youth mayor fills her with pride and strength.
"To be given the opportunity to lead this year's Youth Council as we begin our journey of growth, connection and impact sparks an excitement and determination that I plan to channel into this role," Ms Beaton said.
"Youth Council provides a space for young people to share their voices and make changes in an environment that is both welcoming and empowering. Beyond shaping our community and its future, the Youth Council shapes its members even more.
"The skills we gain from being part of this group are invaluable and allow us to truly influence areas of significance for Greater Bendigo.
"The position of Youth Mayor offers a platform where I can foster the uplifting atmosphere that first built my confidence as a Youth Councillor. To now be in the position of past leaders that have helped me grow and become who I am today is an incredible experience, and one I am beyond grateful for."
City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr Thomas Prince welcomed both new and returning Youth Councillors and congratulated new Youth Mayor Alyssa Beaton and Deputy Youth Mayors Ella Filsell and Bailey Dolan.
"The Youth Council represents the views of young people on a range of City plans and programs that impact them and represents young people at civic and other events and activities, Cr Prince said.
"It also fulfils a key goal of the Council Plan 2025-2029 to ensure young people thrive and are empowered to lead.
"Over the past seven years Youth Councillors have contributed to nearly 60 City plans, strategies, policies and projects. They have also co-designed and overseen the development of the City's Youth Action Plan and represented young people on several advisory committees.
"The Youth Council is an initiative to engage with local young people in the City's decision-making process for the future and Council is looking forward to working with them in 2026."
