Member for Myall Lakes, Tanya Thompson, has announced that Mid North Coast Community College will receive $250,000 in funding from the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants Program.
The funding, secured through the Clubgrants Category 3 Fund, will support the redevelopment of the college’s Pulteney Street Youth Space in Taree, transforming it into a safe, welcoming, and wheelchair-accessible facility designed to support education, creativity, and community engagement.
Mrs Thompson said the investment will provide support for young people who have disengaged from traditional learning and employment pathways.
“This is an incredible initiative that will change lives. By upgrading this space, it will allow for young people to develop practical skills, boost their confidence, and build a brighter future,” Mrs Thompson said.
“The inclusion of ‘maker’ and ‘creative’ spaces for vocational pathway learning, will give students hands-on opportunities to explore skills in trades while also allowing engagement in artistic projects.”
Mid North Coast Community College Head of Campus, Darren Mumford, said the redevelopment will provide a much-needed space for local youth, particularly those who may have disengaged from traditional learning environments.
“We are very grateful for this funding which will allow us to renovate the space.
“During the day, the space will support young people in gaining vocational skills and pathways to employment. In the evenings, it will serve as a dedicated youth space where they can engage with positive role models, receive mental health support, and get assistance with job applications and future career planning,” said Mr Mumford.
“This is an investment in our young people and I’m so pleased to see this funding going towards such an impactful initiative,” Mrs Thompson concluded.
The redevelopment will provide a safe and dynamic environment for collaboration, learning, and personal growth, ensuring local youth have the tools and support they need to succeed.
