Top Blokes looking to expand in Darling Downs

A grassroots program with a proven record of diverting young people away from drugs, alcohol and crime is looking to expands in Toowoomba. Here is how you can help.

13-year-old Wilsonton State High student Dylan Hunt, youth worker Cortlan Ryan, Wilsonton State High School student Charlie Whittaker shared their experiences with Toowoomba South MP David Janetzki.

A grassroots mentorship program with a record of steering at-risk boys away from anti-social behaviour is looking to expand its coverage in the Darling Downs.

Top Blokes is a peer-support program led by youth workers that gives young men a safe place to talk about the big issues.

From drugs and alcohol, to domestic violence, anger management, youth crime, pornography and healthy relationships – the boys can share their experiences in a judgement-free space.

Youth worker Cortlan Ryan was motivated to join the program after growing up without a father.

He said he wanted to be a positive role model for the next generation of young men.

“I wanted to be part of the solution, rather than part of the problem,” he said.

“It is important to address the issues they are facing, maybe they don’t feel comfortable talking with anyone at home, so we offer that bridge for them.”

The service runs six-month mentorship programs in schools across the Darling Downs for boys aged 14-17.

Talking about Top Blokes, a national mentorship program for at-risk teen boy are (from left) Toowoomba South MP David Janetzki. 13-year-old Dylan Hunt, youth worker Cortlan Ryan and Wilsonton State High School student Charlie Whittaker.

They also encourage graduates to support the next intake.

“They feel more empowered, like they are their authentic selves, that they can express themselves in a safe place,” Mr Ryan said.

Wilsonton State High School Year 8 student Dylan Hunt, 13, is one of the latest Top Bloke program graduates.

The towering, future footy star said he used the skills learnt through the program to stay out of fights.

“Top Blokes taught me a lot and it was the favourite part of my day,” Dylan said.

“It showed me how I can help my mates out with stuff that they’ve been going through,” he said.

“And I’ve learned to always take it easy when it comes to drugs and alcohol.”

Dylan’s Mum Elizabeth is happy with his progress since undertaking the Top Blokes Program.

“I’ve had no issues getting him to school – on the Top Blokes day he was there an hour early,” Ms Hunt said.

“He has opened up a lot more about his feelings,” she said.

The program is one of many rolled out across our region that aims to divert young people away from crime, substance abuse and anti-social behaviour.

Toowoomba South MP David Janetzki said it should be expanded to every school.

“Youth crime is a complex problem and we have seen that across our city for some time now,” he said,

“It is important to keep our eyes focused on what is really happening out there in the community, and what is happening is that there are good people, good ideas and good causes on the ground every single day.

“I would love to see Top Blokes in every school in our region because they are making a real difference in the lives of so many young men.”

To enrol as a youth worker, or for more information about the program visit the Top Blokes website.