Created by young people, for young people, YouthSpace will bring the zest of life to the 2025 Wallaby Creek Festival. Photo: Don York Photo.
Adults will not be the only ones bringing the iconic Wallaby Creek Festival to life this month, with community-driven project YouthSpace set to make its return for the third time.
With a line-up of youth-led activities, workshops and hang-out areas, the project has acted as an opportunity for teenage volunteers to get involved and create their own space as part of the festival.
“YouthSpace is more than a festival feature – it’s a vibrant hub imagined, built, and brought to life by young people themselves,” festival co-ordinator Jen Midgley said.
“From painting colourful signs to crafting decorations and setting up zones, every detail is shaped by youthful energy and imagination.
“The result is a space that feels authentic, fresh, and uniquely theirs – not simply provided for young people, but made by them.”
Led by Kerri Ryder, aka Kaptan Kerri, this year’s program highlights will include the Kids and Youth Blanket Market, during which young people will transform blankets into their own market stalls, the Kids and Youth Lantern Parade, where a three-part workshop series involving prop painting, illuminated lantern-making, and energetic junk percussion will lead to a lively youth parade, and the Late Night Blue Light, where kids over 15 can dance the night away under UV lights.
“Workshops, art projects, and creative sessions fill the weekend, with some guided by experienced facilitators, and others led by young people keen to share their skills,” Ms Midgley said.
“Whether it’s collaborative art making, learning something new, or just joining in a group project, there’s always something happening.
“For balance, YouthSpace also provides quiet areas where teens can relax, make friends, or enjoy the rainforest’s calm.”
The festival co-ordinator encouraged all local young people to get involved in shaping their weekend experience.
“Every young person who contributes helps shape a space that celebrates their creativity and voices, and as a thank you, volunteers receive a free festival ticket – the perfect way to enjoy the weekend while being part of something meaningful,” Ms Midgley said.
“YouthSpace is proof of what happens when young people take the lead; it’s a place to belong, to create, and to be inspired.
“Whether you love building, painting, organising, performing, or just lending a hand, your contribution will help shape something truly special.”
