Junior Mayor Josie Horne has presented her fourth and final report to council, detailing the Youth Council's successful Geelong Youth Summit and other recent achievements.
Twelve people aged 12-17 were elected to the region's first ever Youth Council in February this year, to advise council and serve as an official 'youth voice'.
Over the last two months, the youth councillors planned and executed Greater Geelong's first ever Youth Summit at GMHBA Stadium.
More than 100 enthusiastic young people aged 12-17 used design thinking to tackle the Youth Council's three priority issues of homelessness and public safety, the environment and mental health and wellbeing.
The students worked with industry experts to come up with solutions to address these challenges.
Attendees also voiced their support for Greater Geelong to declare a 'climate emergency' in the future, leading to the Youth Council making a recommendation to council to reconsider the matter.
The Junior Mayor has also given feedback to the City about its new Civic Precinct, recommending that the environment, accessibility and safety be prioritised and recognisable within the space.
The youth councillors also held a session with the City's Social Infrastructure team, suggesting more bike lanes be built in the municipality to increase active transport.
Nominations are currently open for the 2020 Geelong Youth Council, which will continue the great work of this year's youth councillors.
Three young people will be selected for each of the four council wards.
Eligible young people can nominate before Sunday 5 January 2020.
Councillor Stephanie Asher - Mayor
The Youth Council should be proud of their efforts in setting up and running the region's first ever Geelong Youth Summit – well done!I thank the youth councillors for their hard work, advocacy and willingness to learn during their term.
Youth Councillor Josie Horne - Junior Mayor
Being part of the Youth Council has been a great chance for my fellow councillors and I to get young peoples' voices heard and to learn about local government.I really encourage young people to run for council. It's been a fun and interesting experience that I've learnt a lot from.
