Council says YES! to elite youth competitions

Lake Macquarie City Council has backed a move to develop local youth through exposure to high-level competitions across a range of disciplines.

Councillors at Monday night’s Standing Committee meeting at Windale Hub, bilyabayi, supported reallocating existing International Children’s Games funds to encourage broader youth participation in sport, arts, science, technology and academic competitions.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz said expanding eligibility to include a wider range of elite pursuits under the ‘Youth Excellence Sponsorship (YES!)’ program created greater opportunities for young people.

“By encouraging diverse forms of youth excellence, the program fosters inclusivity and celebrates a wide spectrum of talent,” he said.

“Supporting young people to pursue their passions at the highest level will boost engagement, showcase talent and strengthen the city’s future potential.”

Councillors also recommended a new International Engagement Policy for adoption.

It would replace the existing policy, created in 2021 with the fallout of the global pandemic in mind, with a new version that reflects a return to pre-pandemic international visitation levels.

“The recent redevelopment of the Hunter Sports Centre enhances the region’s capacity to host international training teams in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics,” Mayor Adam said.

“In addition, major tourism developments such as Black Rock Motor Resort and Trinity Point Resort are set to further elevate the city’s appeal to global travellers.”

Lake Macquarie’s population increased by an estimated 7,832 people from 2021 to 2024.

International migration contributed 2,574 people to that increase, which represented 32.9% of the city’s population growth during the period.

Councillors also recommended adopting a new Public Interest Disclosure Policy.

An Extraordinary Meeting was held following the Standing Committee Meeting in which Councillors recommended a new code of meeting practice for public exhibition.

The full agenda and reports are available at meeting agendas and minutes.

The stream of tonight’s meeting will be available online at lakemac.com.au within 48 hours.