Community & Business
14 April, 2025
Matilda and Orry Among Inspiring Young Leaders
Allora State School P 10 Captains Orry Gilmore and Matilda Rees are members of a new generation of inspiring young leaders to step up to advocate for youth issues in the Southern Downs, among twenty-one Year-10 students from nine schools across the region putting their hands up to join the 2025 Southern Downs Youth Council.
Matilda and Orry along with all of the young leaders were officially inducted into the Southern Downs Regional Council program on Thursday March 27th at Warwick Town Hall, where they received their badges from Councillors.
This ceremony marked the beginning of their journey in community leadership, empowering them to engage in initiatives that positively impact the region.
The Southern Downs Youth Council Program was established in 2018 and has been a cornerstone for empowering young people, offering a leadership platform for students to gain insights into local government operations, engage with community issues and develop essential leadership skills.
In 2025, Council aims to elevate the initiative with students working together under the mentorship of Councillors Sheryl Windle, Morwenna Harslett, Carla Pidgeon and Sarah Deane to formulate and deliver a real-world “pitch” to Council, advocating for issues of importance to the group. This experience will provide students with a hands-on understanding of how local government operates.
Throughout their term, Youth Council members will be invited to participate in a variety of community events, including ANZAC Day, Australia Day, Citizenship Ceremonies, NAIDOC Week, Youth Week, the Domestic & Family Violence Peace Walk and Carols in the Park.
These events offer valuable opportunities for members to connect with the community and make a tangible impact.
The 2025 Southern Downs Youth Council includes representatives from Allora P-10 State School, Assumption College Warwick, Killarney P-10 State School, School of Total Education, SCOTS PGC College, St Joseph’s School, Stanthorpe State High School, Warwick Christian College and Warwick State High School.
Visit www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/living-here/youth for more information on the Southern Downs Youth Council.
