By LAURA WAKELY
MELTON Shire Council is taking on the battle of the binge with a new program to be launched later this year.
The council will provide education, support and entertainment for young people through its Saturday Nights !!Live!! program.
Developed by youth services staff and young people across the municipality, the $287,282 program is one of 26 to receive funding under the Federal Government’s National Binge Drinking Strategy.
Mayor Justin Mammarella said council was proud of the Saturday Nights !!Live!! concept.
“Saturday Nights !Live!! is an innovative program which will support our whole-of-community effort to delay the onset of alcohol consumption and reduce binge drinking among young people,” Cr Mammarella said.
“Binge drinking, particularly among young people, is a complex social issue, which requires a multi-faceted approach.
At least 75 alcohol-free events will be held each Saturday night at the Taylors Hill Youth and Community Centre and Melton Youth Centre.
Family, Youth and Housing Manager Matthew Wilson said the funding provided would allow council to employ a youth project officer for the program and fund 16 peer educators who would promote the anti-binge drinking message across schools, community organisations and youth programs. Mr Wilson said the program would complement the $1.89 million spent across the shire on youth programs, support and events.
