Council Welcomes Five New Youth Representatives to Advisory Committee
Published on 31 March 2026
Temora Shire Council is pleased to announce the endorsement of five young people to the expanded Youth Advisory Committee. At its meeting on 18 December 2025, Council resolved to increase the committee’s membership to include up to five youth representatives aged 12 to 24.
The recommendation to endorse the youth representatives was moved by Councillor Brenton Hawken and seconded by Councillor Narelle Djukic, and was carried unanimously.
Following a call for Expressions of Interest, the Youth Development Officer received five nominations, all of which have been accepted and endorsed by Council. The new youth representatives are:
• Will Matthews – Community Delegate
• Isla Scott – Temora High School Delegate
• Caitlin Smith – Community Delegate/Temora High School
• Lillian Oliver – Platform Y and St Annes Catholic College Delegate
• Leo Furphy – Ariah Park Central School Delegate
Mayor Rick Firman OAM said “We are thrilled to welcome these young leaders to the Youth Advisory Committee. Their ideas and perspectives will be invaluable in shaping decisions that directly impact young people in our shire community.”
During the meeting, Councillors also discussed governance arrangements for the expanded committee. Councillor Belinda Bushell raised a question regarding the process to be followed should a vacancy arise. In response, General Manager Melissa Boxall advised that a formal process is not currently in place and would be developed as part of the early implementation of the committee’s expansion.
A further question was raised by Councillor Djukic regarding Working with Children Check requirements for committee members. The General Manager confirmed that this had been considered in the development of the committee’s charter, and that members aged 18 and over will be required to undertake the Working with Children Check process.
The new representatives come from a variety of backgrounds, including schools and community groups, reflecting the diversity of young people across the Shire. Their experiences and perspectives will provide valuable insights to Council and ensure that local policies, programs, and initiatives are relevant and responsive to youth needs.
Mayor Firman said “These representatives will act as a bridge between Council and the wider community. By sharing their experiences and insights, they will help ensure our programs and projects meet the needs of both the youth of today and future generations to come.”
Council’s Youth Advisory Committee plays a key role in providing advice to Council on issues affecting young people. Expanding the committee to include additional youth representatives will strengthen its ability to consult directly with young people and ensure that their opinions inform decision-making at all levels.
In line with Council’s Child Safe Policy, Council is committed to being a child-safe organisation that values the safety, wellbeing, and empowerment of all children and young people. The inclusion of these five youth delegates reinforces this commitment and demonstrates Council’s dedication to creating a supportive environment for youth engagement.
Council looks forward to working with the new youth representatives in the coming year and encourages the community to support their initiatives. Their participation will foster collaboration, innovation, and meaningful engagement between young people and the broader Temora Shire community.
Not pictured is Ariah Park Representative Leo Furphy.
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Temora Shire Council Media Enquires
Corporate Communications Officer – Elise Hawthorn
E: communications@temora.nsw.gov.au
P: 6980 1127