If you thought that Benalla was looking exceptionally tidy lately, you’d be right!
Last Saturday Tomorrow Today’s Full Impact Squad and a group of dedicated volunteers donned gloves and hi-vis vests to collect a small mountain of rubbish and a couple of shopping trolleys from Benalla Lake and surrounds.
Squad member, Xavier was delighted with the outcome of the day’s work, “There was actually less rubbish than last year, so it was kind of easier! I think it shows that people might be caring more about the environment.”
The Full Impact Squad was formed to give a voice to Benalla’s young people aged 11-19 on issues important to them. In the past 12 months it’s gone from strength to strength, doubling in size and planning and assisting in the delivery of a number of events and initiatives. Tomorrow Today’s Youth Engagement Coordinator, Alex Ross thanked the volunteers and paid tribute to the Squad, “A huge thanks to the volunteers who have given up some of their Saturday to assist with this initiative. I know that the Squad members have appreciated their help! I’m very proud of the Squad. Benalla’s young people have so much to give. It’s been a privilege to see how the Squad has matured and grown, not only in numbers but in how they respond to issues they are passionate about.”
Councilor Danny Claridge was on hand to thank the Squad for their efforts. “On behalf of Benalla Rural City Council, I’d like to thank you for all your hard work and the great things you do for Benalla and our community.”
Squad membership is open to young people aged 11-19 who live in the Benalla local government area. The Squad meets weekly in term time to participate in workshops, plan events and undertake leadership and team-building activities.