This year’s Mayoral fundraiser is being held on 12 October at the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre. The night will feature musical performances, short films, guest speakers, an art exhibition and a huge raffle – all hosted by awesome comedian, Lawrence Mooney. The event is being held to raise money for the YES Youth Hub. YES, or ‘Youth Enterprise Space’, will provide a wide range of services for young people, including education, connection, friendship and access to services and opportunities. YES Youth Hub was chosen at the beneficiary of this fundraiser because I am passionate about supporting youth in our area and this event provides a great chance to show off the good work the Hub will be doing. It is also a great excuse to showcase the fantastically talented young people we have right here in Bass Coast. Everyone is invited – tickets are available now from www.trybooking.com. See you there!

As Mayor of Bass Coast, I attend plenty of different events, but every now and again, one of them stands out and takes hold. The recent launch of HISKA – Helping In Supporting Kids Australia – was one of those events. It was emotional and moving – there were times when there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. HISKA is the dream of Zac Barker and has been started by his parents Kim and Matt Baillie, after Zac took his own life in January this year. He was just 21. This amazing organisation aims to support young people and their families who have been impacted by mental health issues and suicide and will provide a range of services across Bass Coast and South Gippsland.

If you like to skate – get along to the opening parties of the Cowes, Grantville and Corinella Skate Parks these school holidays. Shred the day away with music, food and other entertainment at Cowes on Saturday, 21 September and at Corinella and Grantville on Thursday, 26 September. While we are on the subject of skate parks – I was at the Wonthaggi Skate Park to chat about the National Skate Park Activation Project on Saturday. This project will see the creation of a social enterprise which will act like a sports club to activate our skate parks. As someone who enjoys all sports, I’m excited that the Project is coming to Bass Coast and can’t wait to see the long term, positive outcomes for our communities.