Stronger Country Communities Fund
Rise & Shine - Youth and Community Activation Project
The Rise and Shine – Youth and Community Activation Project was delivered across the Lithgow LGA between 2023 and 2025, supported by funding from the Stronger Country Communities Fund – Round 5. The project was designed to address key priorities outlined by the fund, namely, enhancing community wellbeing, increasing youth engagement, and delivering inclusive programs that support long term social and economic outcomes for regional communities.
Over the two year period, the project delivered:
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24 blocks of afterschool activities, with over 2,950 youth attendances, fostering social connection, regular participation, and new pathways into sport and recreation.
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24 community events, engaging 1,138 participants in inclusive, intergenerational activities that promoted a sense of belonging and local pride.
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15 accreditation courses and 2 youth leadership camps, resulting in 159 young people accessing skill-building, leadership development, and future pathway opportunities.
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10 mental fitness sessions, delivered in partnership with the Black Dog Institute, reaching 254 high school students with early intervention strategies supporting resilience and wellbeing.
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54 formal community engagement meetings, including schools, local government, resident groups and sports bodies, which strengthened collaboration and ensured grassroots delivery.
A strong youth leadership component, with 24 youth leaders contributing to 262 activities, two of whom received Australia Day Awards in recognition of their community service.
The project exceeded several of its original deliverables while maintaining a place based, inclusive approach that directly addressed local needs. A focus was placed on engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, reducing participation barriers, and delivering programming across multiple access points.
The impact of the Rise and Shine Project is evident not only in the high participation numbers but in the personal stories, leadership development, and new local partnerships that have emerged. By aligning closely with SCCF5 objectives, the project has delivered tangible community benefit and created a solid foundation for continued youth and community activation beyond the funding period.
Interviews
A Standout Journey of Growth and Leadership
Kade Martin stood out through his participation in the project. From afterschool activities to community events, accreditation courses, mental fitness sessions, leadership camps and workshops, he showed up, got involved, and made every opportunity count. Kade not only volunteered in his community he also travelled to all locations to assist. His consistent engagement, willingness to learn, and natural leadership qualities didn’t go unnoticed.
As a testament to his personal growth and contribution to the local community, he was recognised as the 2025 Young Citizen of the Year during the Australia Day Celebrations.
From Disengaged to Empowered
Chantelle Irvines journey through the project speaks volumes about the impact of genuine connection and opportunity. Previously disengaged from school, struggling with behaviour, and facing regular absences, she was at risk of slipping through the cracks.
Through her involvement in the project, not only in her local town, but across all three locations, she found purpose, confidence, and a renewed sense of pride. Her commitment and transformation were recognised with the 2025 Young Volunteer of the Year award at the Australia Day Ceremony.
The change was so significant that school staff shared glowing feedback, noting improved attendance, stronger engagement, and a new outlook in the classroom. One teacher even remarked that they had “taken the wrong approach” in the past, only now recognising her true potential after witnessing her growth through the project.
Her story is a reminder that when young people are given trust, responsibility, and support, they can thrive and inspire others around them to do the same.