Photo Jeff ‘Old Time Zoolie’ Dawson
Yes, it’s coming up quick – the end of the school year and the inevitable deluge of schoolies into the Bay.
So even though it’s not yet October, Byron Schoolies Safety Response is getting its act into gear.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Schoolies HUB and on Sunday, September 30, they’ve organised a HUB Volunteers reunion cum sign-on day at the Sun Bistro, Bayshore Drive, from 2pm.
The HUB will be open 24/7 for the duration of Schoolies celebrations, from November 16 until December 3.
This year the aim is to find 100 local volunteers who would like to give some of their time.
Volunteers will have an opportunity to receive free certificate training in First Aid, and a crash course in Alcohol & Other Drugs funded by the Alcohol & Drug Foundation.
More young people needed
HUB Coordinator Nicqui Yazdi said, ‘We are looking for volunteers of all ages but would like to encourage more young people between 18 and 24 to join us this year, and parent and teen teams, as it is a wonderful way to gain volunteering experience.
‘Young people generally make good decisions but for the inexperienced schoolies it can also be a time where they might get into trouble.
‘The more volunteers we have, the safer these young people will be and also the less impact these celebrations will have on the local Byron Community,’ she said.
In order to take advantage of the free training offer, volunteers must register ASAP.
Operating from a marquee on the beach, the Schoolies HUB offers games and activities, evening entertainment, minor first aid, free water, sunblock and condoms – and of course lots of visitor information about Byron Bay.
Businesses are also being encouraged to donate funds to assist covering the costs of this important initiative.
Anyone wishing to sign up to volunteer or wanting to learn more about the Byron Schoolies Safety Response and the Schoolies HUB can contact Coordinator, Nicqui Yazdi on 0402013177 or email [email protected]
