Launch yourself into National Youth Week 2007

Young people should use National Youth Week 2007 as a platform to get involved in their communities and showcase their talents, Minister for Community Services, Senator Nigel Scullion said today.

Senator Scullion hosted the Australian Government launch of National Youth Week (NYW) 2007 in Canberra today by competing in a dragon boat race with sporting celebrities and school teams.

‘This week is a celebration of young Australians. I encourage all young people across the country to launch themselves into National Youth Week 2007. With over 2,500 events and activities such as sporting events, dance parties, debates, exhibitions, festivals and live performances taking place, it promises to be a monster of a week,’ Senator Scullion said.

‘NYW runs from 14 – 22 April and supports thousands of young people aged 12-25 to organise, run and participate in special events and activities in their own communities,’ Senator Scullion said.

‘I’m keen to see young people take advantage of Youth Week to share ideas, attend live events, voice their opinions, showcase their talents and take part in competitions.’

Senator Scullion was joined by Australian basketballer Patrick Mills, paralympian Paul Nunnari, members of the National Youth Roundtable, young carers from the ACT Carers Association and local dragon boat teams as they launched into the spirit of NYW in a colourful race on Lake Burley Griffin today.

‘I’m also spending tomorrow with 300 young people at Uluru and will celebrate NYW with them by taking part in forums and attending an art exhibition and a rock concert.

‘There are a huge range of activities happening throughout Australia, including the very popular National Talent Competitions, in which entrants can perform a song, write a story, make a short film, take a photograph or create a design.

‘Prizes include a $5000 gift voucher, digital video cameras and computer packages.
‘The Australian Government is committed to supporting young people and recognising their contribution through initiatives such as NYW, which celebrates their achievements and involvement in the community,’ Senator Scullion said.

Visit the National Youth Week website to find out more about events, activities and competitions in your local area.