New initiative boosts Shire's commitment to youth safety & engagement
Published on 18 July 2024
The Shire of Broome has announced a significant expansion of its youth engagement initiatives with the introduction of "A Remote Chance," an extension of the successful A Sporting Chance program.
A Remote Chance was made possible by securing an additional $96,000 in funding from the Kimberley Development Commission (KDC), highlighting the Shire's commitment to youth engagement and community safety.
A Sporting Chance, which runs on Friday nights at the Broome Recreation and Aquatic Centre (BRAC), provides a safe and engaging environment where young people participate in a range of sports, activities, and youth support services.
The extension, called A Remote Chance, will bring this opportunity to young people in remote communities, ensuring they too can benefit from the program's positive impact.
A Remote Chance will also offer young people in these areas the opportunity to travel to Broome and participate with peers from throughout the region.
The KDC funding has enabled a series of excursions throughout 2024. Supported by organisations such as Garnduwa, Kullarri, and Boab Health, A Remote Chance allows the Shire of Broome to facilitate programs for young people in remote communities.
The excursions provide a unique opportunity for participants to experience a wider range of sports, activities, and wrap-around services than might otherwise be available in their local areas.
The first excursion started in Beagle Bay in May 2024 and was followed by trips to Bidyadanga and Djarindjin during the July school holidays.
From early August, young people from remote communities will be traveling to Broome for the opportunity to participate.
The Shire is seeking further funding to continue the program as it is hoped that "A Remote Chance" will become a staple service provision for local young people.
Shire President Chris Mitchell emphasised the importance of supporting young people in the community.
"We are deeply committed to the well-being and safety of our youth,” Shire President Mitchell said.
"The additional funding from KDC allows us to extend A Sporting Chance beyond Broome and reach young people in remote communities.
“A Remote Chance is a testament to our ongoing efforts to provide inclusive, engaging opportunities for all young people in our Shire, truly embodying our vision of 'a future for everyone’.”