CHRC opens the new Capella youth space

The space has a pool table, ping pong table, as well as plenty of space for youth to lounge around, listen to music and hang out with friends.

The Capella Youth Space has officially opened, providing a safe space for young people in the community.

Capella’s youth is excited to have a new space to hangout and have fun thanks to a partnership between a range of services across the region.

The Capella Youth Space has officially opened, providing a safe space for young people in the community.

Every Thursday between 3.30pm and 5.30pm, young people aged 11 to 17 are invited to drop in at the Capella Town Hall Supper Room to socialise with peers and connect with youth workers.

The space has a pool table, ping pong table, as well as plenty of space for youth to lounge around, listen to music and hang out with friends.

There’s also a computer available to assist young people with things such as learning to write resumes and cover letters.

CTM Links, the Capella Town Hall Committee, Capella schools, Queensland Police Service and Central Highlands Regional Council partnered to create the space for the town’s young people.

General manager Communities John McDougall said the idea was brought to life after council’s youth development team met with the Capella services and community groups.

“Among upgrades to the local basketball court, the formation of a Capella youth advisory group, one of the group’s common interests was the creation of a safe youth space,” he said.

Capella’s council’s youth advisory group ‘Capella Stars’, formed in February 2021, with 10 active members working on bringing youth-friendly events to Capella.

“With the Youth Space and Capella youth advisory group, council is adding an exciting new opportunity for young people in the town,” Mr McDougall said.

“Capella already has a number of great youth and sports groups and council is glad to be contributing to the existing groups.”

The Youth Space will be staffed by CTM Links Community Development Officers and council’s youth development staff.

Mayor Kerry Hayes has encouraged young people across the Central Highlands to speak up and let their voices be heard.

“You’re a valued part of our community, and council’s work today has an impact on the region that you will live in as you get older if you choose to stay in the Central Highlands,” he said.

“Therefore it’s really important for council to hear your ideas and get your feedback.”

Under the YouthInc banner, council runs four youth advisory groups in the region. Click here to find out more about the groups and how to join on council’s YouthInc.