600 Young People Make the Most of School Holiday Fun
Published on 22 July 2026
Hindmarsh Shire Council’s June/July 2026 School Holiday Program has come to an end, with approximately 600 young people from across the Shire and surrounding towns taking part in two weeks of fun-filled activities.
The program offered a range of engaging, hands-on activities. In Dimboola, participants created personalised keychains during Michelle Danisch’s ‘Make Your Own Shrinky Dinks’ session. Other workshops included light-up paper circuit art at Rainbow’s Turbo Gallery and cookie decorating led by Tegan, with support from Youth Councillor Anora, who generously volunteered their time to help deliver the Jeparit and Dimboola sessions. In Nhill and Jeparit, attendees enjoyed board games and puzzles, with plenty of friendly competition.
The program also included sessions for young people to stay active during the winter holidays. Dance sessions with Katherine Fraser, as well as badminton and a fun-filled multi-sports session in Jeparit with Mikayla from the Western Bulldogs Foundation, encouraged participants to get moving and learn new skills. The Basketball Clinic in Dimboola was particularly well attended, and Council extends its thanks to Fabian Lauricella for volunteering his time and expertise to run the sessions; participants thoroughly enjoyed developing and improving their basketball skills. Council also acknowledges Youth Councillor Lawson for helping Fabian with the clinics.
During the school holidays, Hindmarsh Shire Libraries also celebrated NAIDOC Week (5-12 July 2026). Special Storytime events were held where participants enjoyed a reading session followed by a themed craft activity.
The program concluded with a special screening of ‘Minions & Monsters’ at the Nhill Memorial Community Centre, where over 280 attendees enjoyed the movie and popcorn with friends and family.
Hindmarsh Shire Council Mayor, Cr Ron Ismay, said the success of the program highlights Council’s commitment to supporting local young people and families.
“Time and time again we see fantastic numbers participating in the school holiday program, with something for everyone. The school holiday program allows us to partner with local business, community groups, and volunteers to bring a range of activities for all ages. This successful program reflects Council’s commitment to local families, and I thank our staff and community partners for delivering a fun and engaging experience for children across Hindmarsh Shire.”
The School Holiday Program was made possible through funding from the Victorian Government’s Engage Program. The funding enables Council to engage with and celebrate young people by providing opportunities to participate in and connect with their local community.
For more information or any enquiries, please contact Council’s Community Wellbeing and Youth Officer on (03) 5391 4444 or email youth@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.
Monica Revell
Chief Executive Officer