Among the student-driven initiatives are a proposed mini-golf course, a town yard sale aimed at improving waste management, and a community soup day to foster social connections.
The ideas were presented during Barunga West Council’s Ordinary Meeting, held at Port Broughton Area School on 10 September 2024, as part of a unique engagement effort to inspire the next generation of local leaders.
Mayor Leonie Kerley expressed her enthusiasm for the projects, commending the students for their creativity and practical approaches to enhancing both tourism and community life.
“The students have demonstrated remarkable insight into the needs of the town, combining tourism potential with sustainable community development," Mayor Kerley said.
“Their proposals reflect the importance of engaging our younger generations in local decision-making, and we are excited to see these ideas come to life.”
Among the highlights, the mini-golf course is seen as a potential new attraction to draw visitors to Port Broughton, further supporting the local economy. The town yard sale initiative aims to promote waste reduction and recycling, with proceeds potentially supporting local charities. The community soup day seeks to bring residents together, fostering a sense of unity and support for those doing it tough.
These student-led projects underscore a growing trend of youth involvement in local government and community development, as evidenced by Barunga West Council’s ongoing efforts to involve schools in its decision-making processes.