New youth focus for Bunbury event

Nick Long, BUNBURY HERALDBunbury Herald

Thu, 12 February 2015 2:58PM

Ryan Charles is the guest artist at Youth Alive WA’s Groundswell event in Bunbury on February 28. Credit: Bunbury Herald

Young people in Bunbury can look forward to six hours of fun and inspiration on Saturday, February 28.

Youth Alive WA will bring one of their hugely-successful Groundswell events to DreamBuilders Church.

Youth Alive WA director Mark Lassey said the Bunbury event was the result of a new regional focus.

"This year we are putting a large focus on the teens in our regional areas," he said.

"We see the increasing need for positive influences and entertainment, especially in isolated areas.

"We are expecting several hundred teens to come in from the surrounding towns in the South West."

The event will include an afternoon festival with music, food, inflatables and more, followed by a live concert and an inspirational talk from Mr Lassey.

Local organiser and DreamBuilders youth pastor Hayley Mordaunt said at least eight churches were helping to put the event on.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for young people in the South West to enjoy a really great event," she said.

"Even though all the churches are working together to bring the event here, it isn't just for church young people - all high school-aged people are welcome."

Mr Lassey said Youth Alive was a non-profit organisation geared towards helping young people realise their potential.

About 400 young people generally attend Groundswell events in Perth.

"We would love to see these same results in our regional towns across WA," he said.

"Our young people are the future of our nation and we believe this is a future worth investing in.

"It is our purpose to bring a message of hope and encouragement to those in need and then go beyond this by providing genuine support through local youth programs.

"Through leadership training, development and amazing events we are impacting high schools and influencing youth culture in Australia and the world."

Music at the event will be provided by the Youth Alive Band and guest artist Ryan Charles.

Groundswell is a drug and alcohol-free event.

More information at www.youthalivewa.com

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