PROVIDING accessible information about the dangers of illicit drugs is a key focus for the youth team in the Great South Coast Ice Challenge.
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On Friday, a list of projects to be undertaken by six teams were unveiled at TAFE in Warrnambool.
The teams were split into Moyne, Glenelg, Corangamite, Warrnambool, Southern Grampians and youth.
Each of the six teams released three projects they will be working on.
One of the few projects to have already received funding is the youth team’s idea to include support information about illicit drugs and alcohol on student ID cards.
The project will included the addition of advice, support and referral information about illicit drug and alcohol use on the back of each ID card for students at Brauer and Emmanuel colleges.
Youth team member Caitlin McConnell, a Year 10 student at Brauer College, said she is confident the project can have an impact.
“We thought the ID cards would be the most beneficial to put this information on because we carry the cards around all the time so it will help get the message out there,” Caitlin said.
“It will be good to know where we can get some support or information if we need it.
“A lot of young people wouldn’t know where to go for that information so we think it will really help.”
Caitlin, 15, joined the ice challenge after hearing about it through her role as a Warrnambool City youth councillor.
Joining Caitlin on the youth team is Casey Williams, Natasha Neal, Chelsea Quinn, Laura Lafferty, Rachael Sloane, Jemimah Smith, Josh Bermingham, Liam Stow, Louis Osborne, Rose Shamoail, Charlie Johns, Piper Hinkley, Katie McKean, Core Wood and Kodie Bubb.
Other projects to be undertaken by the youth team include a reality experience program. This will see Year 9 and 10 students facilitate presentations to peer students from survivors who have been impacted by illicit drugs.
The youth team will also lead a one-day, healthy choices workshop which will focus on developing illicit drug resilience strategies.
Great South Coast Ice Challenge ambassador Matthew Stewart said he is thrilled with the projects.
“I think it is really exciting to come back and see these areas identified as to where work can be done to make a difference,” Mr Stewart said.
“I love seeing so many people, from kids to politicians, passionate about finding ways we can tackle this problem.
“Hopefully we can keep surging ahead and have some great wins along the way.”
