Council is delighted to be partnering with Boys to the Bush's Leeton branch for a new youth program that will be of mutual benefit.
Boys to the Bush is a registered community-based charity that provides positive environments for boys to be surrounded by good influences and opportunities to succeed, building a sense of belonging, resilience and mateship. It has a proven history of being able to engage with and improve outcomes for some of our communities' most vulnerable youth.
Initiated by Paul McGregor, Manager of Boys to the Bush's Leeton branch, the new program with Council sees the young men doing jobs followed by the chance to enjoy a feed and exercise at the Stadium.
The first session in February 2023 saw students from Leeton Public School mowing the stadium and tennis court front area, just in time for the Waratah Western Junior League rep basketball tournament held a few days later. The second session took place in March at the Leeton Regional Aquatic Centre. Students from Yanco Public School were in attendance and assisted with the maintenance of the lawns at the grounds, including mowing, whipper snipping, and cleaning the kiosk windows.
On both occasions, the boys' efforts were followed by a yummy barbeque lunch and a fun-filled afternoon of pickleball, basketball and futsal at the Leeton Indoor Stadium.
Council's Recreation Facilities & Program Coordinator Maddy Clyne was thrilled with the sessions and complimented the boys on doing such a great job mowing, tidying and cleaning.
"Working with Paul McGregor and this great bunch of students has been a pleasure and win-win for all involved. We hope to see all these kids back again enjoying our fabulous Recreation Facilities," she said.
Council is also excited to have Boys to the Bush onboard to assist with the serving of food (kindly donated by the Rapid Relief Team) at the annual Riverina Skate Championships which take place on Easter Monday 2023.
