Programs for Young People
On this page:
Check out the activities and programs on offer for young people in Merri-bek this term:
Our April calendar is here!
You can view and book into these programs at the Merri-bek Youth Eventbrite page
If no upcoming dates are listed please fill out our expression of interest form at the bottom of the page.
All programs by category
Drop-In Services
-
Drop-in at Oxygen and hang out in a safe and inclusive environment.
We have a range of equipment that you can use including:
- a pool table
- an arcade machine
- an outdoor table tennis table
- Free WiFi
- a foosball table
- a computer lab
- board games
- a PlayStation
- a comfortable meeting space
- a quiet study and prayer space
- an internal courtyard
- a multipurpose space with a basketball hoop
- youth workers providing support and supervision
Date, time and who can attend Drop-In
Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays from 3pm to 5pm: for young people aged 12 to 18 years.
Location of Drop-in
Oxygen Youth Space: 4-8 Gaffney Street, Coburg North
Register for Drop-in
No registration required, just drop-in.
Find out more about Drop-In
You can email us at merribekyouth@merri-bek.vic.gov.au or give us a call at 1800 My Youth (1800 699 688)
You can also message us on the Merri-bek Youth Facebook page or on our Instagram account.
-
Looking for something to do on a Friday night?
Join us on select Fridays for "Youth Take Over" at the Glenroy Community Hub! This is a time where young people have the whole library to themselves.
There is lots on offer – games, free WiFi, printing and computers, a makerspace room, recording studio and special event.
So come along with your friends, enjoy plenty of fun activities and heaps of yummy food in a safe and inclusive environment.
Date, time & who can attend Takeover
15 March 2024
19 April
17 May
21 June
19 July
16 August
20 September
25 October
6pm - 8pm; for young people aged 12 to 18 years.
These events are fully supervised by Merri-bek City Council staff. Note that this is a parent-free zone.
Location
Glenroy Library, Glenroy Community Hub, 50 Wheatsheaf Road, Glenroy
Register
Please register at the Merri-bek Libraries eventbrite.
-
Looking for something to do on a Friday night?
Join us on select Fridays for "Youth Take Over" at the Brunswick Library. This is a time when young people have the whole library to themselves.
There is lots on offer – games, free WiFi, printing and computers + special activities at each session.
So come along with your friends, enjoy plenty of fun activities and heaps of yummy food in a safe and inclusive environment.
Date, time & who can attend Takeover
22 March
Arts & Crafts night - Dabble in watercolour, decorate a tote bag, create a collage + pizza & ice cream sundaes.14 June
13 September
22 November
6pm - 8pm; for young people aged 12 to 18 years.
These events are fully supervised by Merri-bek City Council staff. Note that this is a parent-free zone.
Location
Brunswick Library, Sydney Road & Dawson Street, Brunswick
Register
Please register at the Merri-bek Libraries eventbrite.
Gigs, events & festivals
Watch this space for upcoming events organised by our amazing FReeZA crew, Amped Up.
Want to get involved? Head here for more info on Amped Up.
Want to hear about upcoming youth-led gigs, events, and festivals? We recommend following Amped Up on instagram.
-
The Youth Stage at the Sydney Road Street Party is back!
Featuring live music from local youth acts including:12:45 pm - 1:15 pm: Sasha Tyler
1:35 pm - 2:15 pm: Petrichor
2:35 pm - 3:15 pm: Paraquay
3:35 pm - 4:15 pm: Mac and The Steeze
4:35 pm - 5:30 pm: Hot Glue
We will also be hosting a pet & owner costume competition! Sign up here
You can see the full line up of performances and activities on the Brunswick Music Festival website.
Date, time and location
Sunday 3 March, 12 noon to 6pm
The Youth Stage is located at Tonberang Ngarrga (Weston Street)
Jobs and training
-
Are you tired of relying on rides from your parents, friends, or public transport? It's time to take control of your journey and embrace the freedom of the open road.
Our Get your L plates course supports young people to learn the road rules, study for the test & get their permit!
The Road to Solo Handbook is what your Learners Permit test is based on. This book can be hard to read but this course will help you learn about the road rules and study for the test in a fun and interactive way!
On the last day of the course, Merri-Bek Youth will transport participants out to VicRoads to take their test for FREE (that’s a saving of $46.80). Successful participants will receive their hardcopy permits.
You can find out more about the Changing Gears initiative on the Changing Gears website.
The Changing Gears program boasts a 92% success rate and is particularly effective for students who struggle with literacy.
Who
This course is suitable for 16 to 25 year olds.
When
Monday 13, Tuesday 14, Wednesday 15 & Thursday 16 November.
10 am - 2 pm
Where
Oxygen Youth Space: 4-8 Gaffney Street, Coburg North
Register your interest
Please call or text Steve on 0478 461 666 or email shuf@merri-bek.vic.gov.au.
-
Get qualified and get a job as a Pool Lifeguard.
Over three days you will be taught the skills required to supervise and respond to swimming pool users in emergency situations, and come away with the accredited SISSS00111 & First Aid HLTAID003 certificates!This course is recommended for any person wishing to achieve employment within the aquatic industry. After you complete the course, we will provide you with support to find local job opportunities!
This course is faciliated by Lifesaving Victoria and supervised by Merri-bek Youth.
Who
This training is for young people aged 17 to 24 who live, work, study, or socialise in Merri-bek.
Date, time and location
Applications have closed for our 2023 program.
Register your interest
To register your interest for next year's program please contact Liam Walsh by emailing lwalsh@merri-bek.vic.gov.au or calling/ texting 0417 056 587.
Leadership and Youth Voice
-
*Applications for the 2023 intake are now closed.
Interested in creating change in your local community? Then apply for a role as a Merri-bek Youth Ambassador!
As a Merri-bek Youth Ambassador, you will work with a group of passionate young people to represent the voices of young people in Merri-bek. The program runs for a total of 18 months, with fortnightly meetings and workshops designed to build your skills, confidence & networks, so you can create positive change in your community!
What does it involve?
As a Merri-bek Youth Ambassador, you will have the opportunity to:
• Represent the views of young people in Merri-bek
• Work with other young people on a youth-led project to create positive change
• Build meaningful connections within your community
• Participate in fortnightly meetings and workshops with Merri-bek Council staff
• Discuss, debate and develop solutions to issues that are important to you
The program runs for a total of 18 months, with a break from January - February.
Who can apply?
All young people aged 12 to 24 who live, work, study or have a strong connection to the city of Merri-bek are welcome to apply.
How do i apply?
Applications for the 2023 intake are now closed.
In this application, we ask a few demographic related questions, such as age, gender, cultural background and connection to Merri-bek. This information is kept private and is only collected to ensure we represent the diverse voices from our community in Merri-bek.
More information
Please email Lillian Dunn at ldunn@merri-bek.vic.gov.au or call 0429 268 305.
Commitment to Child safety
Merri-bek is a child safe organisation. By taking part in our opportunities, you agree to join us in our Commitment to Child Safety.
Music
-
The music rehearsal room at Oxygen Youth Space is a fully equipped music space for bands and soloists to plug in and jam. The space features a full backline, amps and microphones.
Date, time
The rehearsal space is available for hire Monday - Sunday.
- 3-month membership for $70: includes a weekly three-hour session
- One off practise: $6.20 per ho
Location
Oxygen Youth Space: 4-8 Gaffney Street, Coburg North
Book & find out more
You can email us at merribekyouth@merri-bek.vic.gov.au or reach out to our Youth Services Admin Officer Vanessa at vportaro@merri-bek.vic.gov.au or give us a call on 1800 My Youth (1800 699 688)
You can also message us on the Merri-bek Youth Facebook page or on our Instagram account.
-
The Recording Studio at The Glenroy Hub is an ideal place for intermediate users to capture their music and work on their production skills. The Studio has all the equipment you need to record your music, podcasts, or other sound projects that require recording, editing, and mastering.
Date, time & who can use The Recording studio
The Recording Studio is available for use during Glenroy Library’s opening hours.
These are:
- Mondays, 9am - 8pm
- Tuesdays, 9am – 8pm
- Wednesdays, 9am – 8pm
- Thursdays, 9am – 10pm
- Fridays, 9am – 6pm
- Saturdays, 9am – 4pm
- Sundays, 1pm - 5pm
The Recording Studio is designed to be used self-sufficiently, and users under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an inducted person over the aged of 18.
Location
Glenroy Library, Glenroy Community Hub, 50 Wheatsheaf Road, Glenroy
What equipment is available?
- Our Mixing desk setup has all you need to record your projects!
- Our Music Control Room has a Soundcraft Signature MTK 22 mixing desk with 14 tracks available to record on, an Avid Eleven effects rack, a DBX 2-Channel Compressor/Gater, Yamaha HS5 monitors, running Logic Pro on Mac.
- Our Midi/Podcasting station has an Arturia Keylab 61 keyboard, a RØDE RødeCaster Pro podcast console, with Ableton Mac.
- We also have a Roland Gaia synth, A Roland Digital Drumkit, Acoustic and Electric guitars, Headphones, Microphones (vocal, instrumental, and podcasting), and plenty of stands, mounts, and cables (XLR and ¼ inch leads).
- If you have your own instrument, you are welcome to bring it in during your session too.
Find out more and book
Please email Nic at noogjes@merri-bek.vic.gov.au or call 0438 832 397.
-
The Podcasting and Jam Room at The Glenroy Hub is an ideal place for small group rehearsals, practicing with musical instruments and podcasting. An array of instruments are available as is a professional podcasting set-up for users with knowledge on how to use the set-up.
Date, time & who can use the Podcasting & Jam Room?
These are:
- Mondays, 9am - 8pm
- Tuesdays, 9am – 8pm
- Wednesdays, 9am – 8pm
- Thursdays, 9am – 10pm
- Fridays, 9am – 6pm
- Saturdays, 9am – 4pm
- Sundays, 1pm - 5pm
Users must be inducted into the space, and users under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an inducted person over the aged of 18.
Location
Glenroy Library, Glenroy Community Hub, 50 Wheatsheaf Road, Glenroy
To book or find out more
You can email the studio coordinator Nicolaas Oogjes noogjes@merri-bek.vic.gov.au or call him on 0438 832 397
School Holiday Program
-
Free school holiday activities for 12 -18s!
Download the April School Holiday pdf
Find out more about each program and book your spot at the Merri-bek Youth eventbrite.
Monday 1 April
(Closed - Public holiday)
Tuesday 2 April
Gaming & Creating @ the Glenroy Hub
Wednesday 3 April
Mega Mural Making @ Oxygen Youth Space
Thursday 4 April
Games and learn to henna @ Fawkner Library
Friday 5 April
Board and card game comps @ Oxygen Youth Space
Monday 8 April
Auslan Games @ Oxygen Youth Space
Tuesday 9 April
Traditional Aboriginal Games @ Ballerrt Mooroop, Glenroy
My Rainbow @ Oxygen Youth Space
Wednesday 10 April
Just Dance & Karaoke @ Oxygen Youth Space
Thursday 11 April
Games and slime making @ Fawkner Library
Friday 12 April
Kahoot trivia and games day @ Oxygen Youth Space
Time
1 pm - 4 pm
Register
Find out more about each program and book your spot at the Merri-bek Youth eventbrite.
More Information
Email Vanessa at merribekyouth@merri-bek.vic.gov.au or give us a call at 1800 My Youth (1800 699 688).
Sport & health
-
Our free boxing classes are back! All girls and women, including trans and femme identify folk are welcome to join these free boxing classes with professional boxing instructor Stephanie Mfongwot!
Classes are high intensity and include shadow boxing & bag work, skipping, abdominal exercises, boot camp exercises such as squats, push-ups, lunges and burpies.
No experience needed, classes will be tailored to all abilities and skill levels. Beginners welcome! Boxing gloves, boxing pads and cotton inners are provided.
Date and time
Tuesdays, 5:30pm to 6:30pm, during the school term.
Location
Oxygen Youth Space: 4-8 Gaffney Street, Coburg North
Who
This class is for girls and women, including trans and femme identify folk, aged 12-24 years.
All sisters, aunties, mothers and all your female friends can attend too.You do not have to have any prior boxing experience to join in with us, we welcome anyone from beginners to experts.
What should I bring to the class?
Make sure to wear exercise-friendly clothing and bring a drink bottle and a towel.
Register
We will require you to register for the course. This allows us to make sure we have the right amount of equipment and space set up for everyone.
You can register for the class here at our eventbrite.
Looking for more information?
Email Miriam at mbilander@merri-bek.vic.gov.au or you can speak to a member of our team by calling 1800 699 688.
-
Are you looking to improve your basketball skills, receive expert tips, learn the basics, play pick-up game, or just have fun? Then come and be a part of Fawkner Fastbreak! Fawkner Fastbreak is run by pro basketball coach & youth worker Jonni.
Date and time
Thursdays during the school term, 2.45pm - 5pm.
Location
Fawkner Community Sports Hall, 77 Jukes Road, Fawkner (Behind the library).
Who
For all people aged 12 - 18. No experience necessary.
Register & more information
Please contact Steve by email shuf@merri-bek.vic.gov.au or call/text 0478 461 666 to find out more!
-
Helping Hoops Power is a basketball program for girls and women aged 10 and up and is a fun way to learn skills and play basketball - no experience needed.
Date and time
Mondays, 4.30pm to 6pm, during the school term.
Location
Fawkner Community Sports Hall, 77 Jukes Road, Fawkner (Behind the library).
Who
This class is for girls and women, so we ask that only girls and women 10 years and older attend. All sisters, aunties, mothers and all your female friends can attend too.
You do not have to have any prior basketball experience to join us, we welcome anyone from beginners to experts.
What should I bring to the class?
Wear exercise-friendly clothing and bring a drink bottle and a towel.
Register & more information
Please contact Steve by email shuf@merri-bek.vic.gov.au or call/text 0478 461 666 to find out more!
-
Are you looking to level up your soccer game, master new skills, get some expert tips, and have an absolute blast on the field? Look no further! Our soccer program is here to make your soccer dreams a reality.
Join us for sessions that will not only sharpen your skills but also create epic memories and connect you with awesome new friends who share your love for the game.Sessions are led by soccer coach & youth worker, Jonni.
Date and time
Tuesdays during the school term, 3.15pm - 5pm.
Location
Meet at the Glenroy College Gymnasium, 120 Glenroy Road, Glenroy.
Who
For all people aged 12 - 18. No experience is necessary.
Register & more information
Please contact Steve by email shuf@merri-bek.vic.gov.au or call/text 0478 461 666 to find out more!
Stay up to date
There are many ways you can keep up to date with Merri-bek Youth. We promote our programs through Eventbrite, Instagram and Facebook. We encourage you to follow us on these platforms so you'll be notified as soon as we post something new:
Merri-bek Youth Eventbrite page
Merri-bek Youth Instagram page
Express your interest
No upcoming dates for the program you're interested in? Got a program related enquiry, or want to join our mailing list? Please fill out our programs expression of interest form.