Creative space for youth

Cr John Gibbons and MP Jill Hennessy with students Gemma; Rishi; Diana and Kayla. Photo by Damjan Janevski.

By Esther Lauaki

Point Cook will soon have a new space for young people to relax and get creative.

Construction on the Saltwater Youth Space, due to open later this year, is well under way and will include an outdoor film projector, performance space and art “canvasses” and a host of other bells and whistles.

Wyndham deputy mayor John Gibbons said the space’s concrete surfaces would feature textured, wave-like stencilling inspired by artist Louise Lavarack’s design of the neighbouring community centre.

“A projection wall will be able to showcase artwork and films for special events, and a stage and seating area will make this a great place to host bands,” Cr Gibbons said.

“In addition, large platforms will double as canvasses for art, allowing Point Cook’s young people to showcase their talent.”

He said Point Cook was a fast-growing community.

“With 33 per cent of Point Cook residents aged 19 or younger, council is committed to providing dedicated areas for young people to relax, socialise and express their creativity,” Cr Gibbons said.

The $720,000 project is next to the Saltwater Community Centre.

Wyndham council funded $520,000 of the project, with the Victorian government contributing $200,000 through a Growing Suburbs grant.

 

Esther Lauaki