Mission Australia will soon be launching the Youth Beat Glenorchy program, an after hours mobile youth outreach service providing support, referrals, information and education.

Mission Australia State Director Noel Mundy said to kick start this unique program, Mission Australia is launching an arts competition, with the winning design to be featured on the Youth Beat Glenorchy van.

“We are calling on all young Tasmanians to get involved in this competition and let their creative talents shine,” Mr Mundy said.

“The competition is open to anyone aged between 12 and 24 and all artwork must be submitted by COB Friday, 28 September.

“Artwork will be judged by a panel consisting of a Mission Australia representative, a member of the Alcohol and Tobacco Council, a representative from the Moonah Arts Centre and a young person who is currently taking part in Mission Australia’s Stay on Track Program.”

Mr Mundy said the Youth Beat service will be operated by two youth workers who will provide an after hours service on Friday and Saturday evenings as well as during the day on weekends. Follow up referrals will then occur on Monday’s and Tuesdays.

“Mission Australia hopes the Youth Beat program will engage young people within the local community,” he said.

“Through activity based engagement we hope to link young people to family, education, community and recreation within Glenorchy.

“This project will not only strengthen family relationships by supporting families to care and take responsibility for their children but also reduce anti-social activities to provide community and social benefit.

“This will be achieved by developing and supervising weekend activities to increase safety and potentially decrease crime.

“By providing an after house point of contact, it is also hoped young people’s safety at night will improve.”

The van’s service will be provided free-of-charge and will include a private interview space for brief intervention counselling, information and referral.

For further information about the competition contact Tania Horne at Mission Australia via This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Finished artwork can be submitted to Mission Australia offices at 175 Collins
Street, Hobart.

Mission Australia helps disadvantaged Tasmanians regain their lives and independence by providing employment and training as well as offering youth initiatives to inspire disadvantaged young people.

For more information: Lucinda Bray, Beyond PR, 6223 3333 or 0438 280 486