On Tuesday, 29 July, student leaders across the region came together for the 2025 Campaspe Youth Summit.
The day focused on discussion, leadership and problem-solving, exploring the key issues that affect young people.
Held at the Kyabram Italian Social Bocce Club, the summit brought together students from Echuca College, Moama Grammar, Rochester Secondary College, Kyabram P–12 College, and St Augustine's College. The event focused on exploring key issues affecting young people in our region, with workshops facilitated by the Australian School of Entrepreneurship. These sessions equipped students with leadership and public speaking skills to help them advocate for meaningful change in their communities.
Throughout the day, students participated in ideation and presentation workshops, developing their skills in pitching ideas and collaborating to find solutions. In the afternoon, they put these skills into action, presenting their pitches to local Councillors and community leaders. These presentations gave young people a direct platform to share their ideas and influence local decision-making.
Campaspe Shire Mayor, Cr Daniel Mackrell, was inspired by the energy and insight of the participants.
"It's incredibly encouraging to see our young people not only identifying the challenges they face, but also coming up with practical, thoughtful solutions.
"Their passion and creativity give me real confidence in the future of our region.
"Events like this remind us that leadership doesn't start in adulthood — it starts now. These students are already making a difference, and it's our job to listen and support them," Cr Mackrell said.
The Summit was a resounding success, with strong participation from both students and community leaders including Cr Jessica Mitchell, Cr John Zobec, Cr Luke Sharrock, Shane Roberts from Victoria Police, Dan Walker from Goulburn Murray Landcare, Cynthia Robins from Echuca Regional Health, and Jo Bradshaw from Campaspe Shire Council. The interaction between students and leaders fostered meaningful conversations around youth pathways, community wellbeing, and sustainable futures.
The summit is part of Council's ongoing commitment to youth engagement and leadership development across the shire, and was made possible due to Victorian State Government Engage! funding.
