The Central Grampians Local Learning and Employment Network (CGLLEN) officially launched LenZone! at 150 Main Street Stawell, on Friday. LenZone! is a one-stop-shop which will reach out to connect, empower and inspire young people aged 15 to 24.

Executive Officer, David Wheaton, said the opening of LenZone! in Stawell was very timely given the opening up of the Gold Reef Mall.

“In talking to young people over recent months one of their main concerns has been where they would go when the Mall was opened up. We want them to know that LenZone! has been created especially for them.” Mr Wheaton said.

Mr Wheaton said LenZone! was a recognition that apart from sport there were limited recreational opportunities in Stawell and fewer still where young people could get careers information, surf the internet, find a quite space to study, or just hang out.

“We want to ensure no young person in Stawell falls through the cracks, support smooth transitions from school to work and nurture excellence in education and training.” Mr Wheaton said.

LenZone! includes several functional areas including a bright and welcoming lounge area with the latest careers information, magazines, an expresso machine and computers equipped with broadband internet access. There is also a homework room and reference library providing a quiet place to study in a supportive environment.

LenZone! also aims to break down barriers between young people and service providers and a ‘locum office’ has been designed for visiting agencies such as Centrelink, Job Network agencies and youth workers.

Mr Wheaton said that the work of LenZone! is being directed by an advisory group comprising agencies in Stawell who deal with young people.

“An important benefit of this collaboration is that we will avoid duplication and overlap in the delivery of services.” Mr Wheaton said.

The advisory group has already agreed on several projects including holding a regular morning tea for young mothers, an internet design course that will see a group of young people offer to build free websites for local businesses and establishing a group of young people to come up with local entertainment options.

A second advisory group, comprising young people themselves would also provide direction to LenZone!. This group’s first task will be to develop a Charter of Acceptable Behaviour to ensure LenZone! offers a safe and welcoming environment for all young people.

Mr Wheaton said the opening of LenZone! was the result of the local community getting behind the project.

“The CGLLEN Board committed around $30,000 to see LenZone! established and I have been delighted with the financial and in-kind support we have received from the Northern Grampians Shire, local businesses and community groups.”

“While there have been too many sponsors to mention them all, I do want to recognise the support of the Stawell Lions Club. Over many weeks members gave up their time to help prepare and paint the lounge area. LenZone! would not look so bright and welcoming if it were not for their help.” Mr Wheaton said.

LenZone! will be officially opened at 3.30 pm by local young people and the launch will include a live outside broadcast by radio station MixFM (3.00pm to 6.00pm), sausage sizzle and free give aways throughout the afternoon.

Members of the public are encouraged to come along and see first hand this fabulous new facility for local young people.