You may have noticed the Victorian Blue Light Youth Camp (VBLYC) in Maldon is back in action, with trails of kids in high-vis vests riding their bikes along the streets of Maldon.

Executive General Manager of the camp, Jonathan Mitchell, is excited to have the camp up and running again after a number of very challenging years.

“Once restrictions were lifted, we were inundated with bookings,” said Jonathan.

“We’re now starting a new program for 16 to 24-year-olds which will work with young people who are disengaged from education, training, community or employment. Many of them are vulnerable, marginalised, disadvantaged and at risk of being engaged (or are already engaged) in the youth justice system.”

The new program will be delivered over two years in Mount Alexander and Central Goldfields shires and the City of Greater Bendigo. The program is designed using a strengths-based, trauma-informed model, which supports young people to incrementally return to structured learning. The program will include regular workshops, training and work experience, all targeted around the interests of the learner.

The VBLYC is also aiming to reduce the risk and incidence of diet-related disease by engaging, educating and empowering children and young people to make mindful food choices.

“Our vision through the program is for young people to be informed,” said Jonathan. “We want them to use their newfound food and business knowledge to make mindful choices so they can live well and realise their potential.”

The programs at VBLYC will engage young people through food education, food enterprise and social innovation, which will include life, living and employability skills development.

“We believe that living well and feeling good is possible if there is a knowledge of cooking, gardening, shopping, storage, regular exercises, and doing good food deeds,” said Jonathon. “We also envisage the creation of job opportunities throughout our traders and business partnerships which could lead from exposure and education about food to small business, e-commerce and technology.”

The VBLYC is currently recruiting volunteer ‘foodies’ people within the community who want to be a part of the next exciting phase at the camp.

“We want to hear from individuals who want to be a part of a real social justice change, empowering young people to take real control of their future by equipping  them with life skills through food and food security,” said Jonathan.

If you have a background in permaculture/gardening, food, waste/sustainability, warehouse operations/food storage and food education and are passionate about working with young people, contact the VBLYC on 5475 2033 or email info@bluelightcamp.org.au for more information.

This article appeared in the Tarrangower Times, 4 March 2022.