Some of the state’s best skaters and BMX riders will be on show at the recently completed Mount Eliza Skate Park on Saturday May 26 for a leg of the 2012 South Eastern League Series. The official opening of the skate park will be held in conjunction with this event.

Mount Eliza Ward Councillor Leigh Eustace said the Skate Park, completed ahead of schedule, was already proving very popular with skaters, BMX and scooter riders.

"There were already skaters out enjoying the park the day after it was completed," he said.

Cr Eustace said the Mount Eliza Skate Park was one of the most challenging layouts in the region.

"This Skate Park is a combination of a two-level bowl and a street circuit and is probably the most advanced on the peninsula. It’s certainly creating a buzz among skaters and riders, not only on the peninsula, but from neighbouring areas as well," he said.

"I would encourage any keen skaters and BMX riders to get on down and take part in the competition on the 26th May, or just come along to check out the show," said Cr Eustace.

Rob Francis, MOSS (Melbourne Old School Skate) Foundation President, Mount Eliza local and former pro skater said "Congratulations to Councillor Leigh Eustace and everyone at Mornington Peninsula Shire for working so hard to provide such a fantastic facility. It’s been great to see so many families enjoying the skate park together already.

"As a long time skater, I know that building a skate park is a very difficult process as the key factors of location, budget and design need to be balanced carefully. Council has got this one right, and it is drawing accolades from around the country. This skate park will serve our community for decades to come," he said.

'Friends of Mount Eliza Skate Park' welcomes new members via Facebook.

The Competition
The Skate and BMX South Eastern League Competition runs from 11 – 5PM, with BMX registration at 11PM, and skate registration at 2PM. Divisions include: Open females/males, 12 and under, and 16 and under. For details go to: www.skatepark.ymca.org.au

Official Opening
The Official Opening will be held between 1-2PM on the day of the competition, and incorporates a MOSS Skate Demo featuring high flying bowl action and "Fossil & Grommet" (father & son) teams. This Demo previews November's MOSS Jam which also raises funds for African water projects. The Shire’s Beachcomber youth bus will be there playing music and offering free Nintendo game-playing, food will be available and there will be lots to do and see!

Free Shuttle Bus Transport
A free shuttle bus will operate every 30 minutes from the Mount Eliza Primary School and Post Office to and from the event.

For more information please contact Andrew Joseph from the Shire’s Youth Services on: 5950 1666. For competition details visit: www.skatepark.ymca.org.au

Mornington Peninsula Shire Youth Services are looking for young people between the ages of 14 and 18 whom live / hang out in the Hastings, Westernport area to apply to become a part of a NEW 12 week Freeza event management program.

The voluntary role will require a commitment of one day per week commencing in early May, located at the Hastings Neighbourhood Renewal Hub, 1973 Frankston-Flinders Road, Hastings.

We are looking for 20 young people who have a passion about all types of local music and the all ages scene, love talking to and meeting new people, and are interested in event management.

The aim of Freeza in 2012 is to gain event management experience in the music scene from singing & song writing, sound production, management of act/bands, organizing events and gigs.

Do this sound like something for you? Head over to mpys.com.au/freeza to register your interest!

Mornington Peninsula Shire has launched the iConnect program to better link young people with the wider community.

The first project will operate in the Somerville/Baxter area with students from Somerville Secondary College.

Students are working at Sages Cottage with community members to develop the community garden and construct a new gazebo, supplied by the Shire. The second project planned is a community art program.

Watson Ward Councillor Lynn Bowden said iConnect is one of a series of Shire programs to help young people feel more in touch with their communities.

"Projects such as iConnect grow and develop community spirit and promote opportunities for young people to make positive contributions to our community.

"iConnect will see young people working as a team and individually, and will present opportunities for them to meet and work with people from a range of different backgrounds and age groups to enhance their experience with interacting with their community.

"It’s an innovative program that will see our valuable young people learn new skills, get involved in our local community and help build their confidence," she said.

iConnect’s first project is due to finish in June, with a celebration for students, families and friends.

iConnect is part funded by the Department of Human Service’s Office for Youth for a period of three years, and more programs will be announced over the funding period. Research from the Shire’s CTC program was utilised in the funding application.