Now the Edward River Youth Centre, an official opening will be held at the Harrison St building from 3pm to 6.30pm on Wednesday, March 18, and the whole community is invited to attend.
The youth centre is all about community connection, youth opportunity and grassroots action.
Established and coordinated by the Deniliquin Youth Initiative, the opening will be an opportunity to learn about plans moving forward.
The informal gathering and barbecue is also your chance to share ideas and explore ways to get involved in supporting local young people.
The Deniliquin Youth Initiative emerged as a community-driven response to the growing need for safe, inclusive spaces and practical opportunities for young people across the Edward River region.
Through events like the upcoming barbecue, organisers hope to strengthen relationships between residents, families, service providers and volunteers while building momentum for youth-focused programs and initiatives.
Initiative president Nicole Young said strong community support and involvement will be critical to the long-term success of the youth centre.
"This youth centre has been created by the community, for the community — and its future success will depend on people continuing to step forward, get involved and help us build something truly meaningful for our young people," Ms Young said.
"We are calling on residents, local businesses and community leaders to partner with us — whether that’s volunteering time, mentoring a young person, joining our steering committee or providing financial support.
“Together we can create real opportunities and brighter futures for young people in our region.
“The informal nature of the afternoon aims to make participation easy and welcoming for all.
“Whether residents can stay for the full event or simply drop in briefly, organisers are encouraging anyone with an interest in supporting young people to attend.”
Importantly, the initiative is now seeking volunteers to join its steering committee and help guide the strategic direction of youth programs and services.
There are also opportunities for individuals to mentor young people, supporting them to build confidence and develop practical life skills that can improve education, employment and wellbeing outcomes.
Ms Young said local businesses are also encouraged to become involved through sponsorship or financial contributions. The Deniliquin Youth Initiative is a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and a recognised Public Benevolent Institution.
Tomorrow’s opening comes almost 12 months after the Deniliquin Youth Iniative was offered a lease for the CWA by Edward River Council.
Before then, the building had sat dormant since 2022 when the previous CWA branch folded. The CWA reformed in 2025, but was unsuccessful in its application for the hall.
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