Narrogin inaugural Youth Health and Wellbeing Festival supports local youths’ mental and physical health

Hundreds of young people in Narrogin enjoyed a day of wellness and fun last month as a festival focused on youth health and wellbeing came to town for the first time.

About 230 students from across the southern Wheatbelt took part in the Youth Health and Wellbeing Festival on May 8 where they learnt how to get help from professional services to support their mental and physical growth.

Holyoake’s Wheatbelt Prevention team organised the inaugural event in partnership with Moorditj Youth, the Shire of Narrogin, Pingelly Brookton LDAT and Healthway, delivering wellbeing activities, from yoga to hip-hop, along with presentations on vaping, nutrition and mental health.

Students also painted a mural on the Narrogin Regional Leisure Centre depicting the sporting journey of Nazza the Numbat designed by young people, with the support of local artist Anita Longmuir.

Holyoake Narrogin alcohol and other drug prevention co-ordinator and festival organiser Jessica Daniels said the day was “well-received” by the young attendees.

“It was exciting to see our idea come to life and the benefits to local young people who participated in the engaging and informative activities,” she said.

The day ended in an explosion of colour as students took part in a colour run with local police officers getting in on the fun.

“The event was fantastic and gave a great blend of informative and interactive sessions that kept our youth engaged all day,” Sgt Ryan Devine said.