Project Skate is being shaped by Vincentia High students through the Youth Voice Project, where they’re learning, leading, and lifting each other up, on and off the skate deck. Through the program, they’ve pitched changemaker ideas, practiced public speaking, and started co-designing with the community to advocate for a safer, more inclusive skate park in Sussex Inlet.
On the weekend of 11–12 October, the Project Skate Team will host two free skateboarding events, thanks to funding from Bendigo Bank, Sanctuary Point and Districts. Local community groups will run the BBQ, and the youth will be collecting feedback from local skaters about what they want in a skate park. This input will help develop a master plan for the Sussex Inlet skate park.
Come along, grab a sausage sandwich, cast your vote, and chat with the Youth Voice Project Skate Team.
Meet the Voices Behind the Project
Annabelle: “Rewarding, inspiring, challenging.”
“Youth Voice helped me go from shy to speaking confidently in front of an audience.” – Annabelle
Annabelle says the best part of the Youth Voice Project has been meeting people she never expected to connect with and discovering she can help make change close to home. The project has boosted her confidence in public speaking, especially after delivering pitches, and sharpened her skills in building persuasive, data-backed arguments.
She joined because she skates for fun and wants to fix hazards at an underdeveloped park that’s causing injuries. Her dream? A busier park where more young people get off devices, learn new skills, and have space to have fun. Her advice to other young people: link up with groups ready to make a difference. It builds social and communication skills and gives you a voice.
(Fun fact: she does archery!)
August: “Eye-opening, fun.”
“Renovating the skateparks will get more young people outside with their friends.” – August
For August, the best part has been having a say in a big community project. Working as a team brings a wide range of ideas to the table, and that collaboration is fueling their excitement about renovating Sussex and maybe even Sanctuary Point skateparks.
August believes a better park will get more young people outside, hanging out with friends, and progressing together. Their tip for change-makers: “Don’t think you can’t make a difference just because you’re young.”
(Fun fact: learned their first ollie in just three months!)
Oscar: “Skating. Fun. Improvement.”
“Don’t wait—jump straight in.” – Oscar
For Oscar, the highlight of the Youth Voice Project has been making real connections with community members and moving from ideas to action. He chose Project Skate because it tackles a problem that’s lingered far too long, and he’s excited about finally having the kind of space he’s always wanted in his local area.
His vision is a skate park for everyone: lines with both technical challenges and beginner-friendly features so people can learn and progress together. Along the way, Oscar’s felt more empowered and capable than he imagined. His advice is simple: don’t wait—jump in.
(Fun fact: he does stand-up comedy!)
Project Skate is a team effort! Alongside Annabelle, August, and Oscar, we also have Riley on the crew. Riley chose not to be featured in this blog, but his ideas and energy have been a big part of shaping the project.
Project Skate Events
📍 Sanctuary Point – Saturday 11 October 2025
- 12:00 pm Beginner Skate Class
- 1:15 pm Intermediate Skate Class
- 2:15 pm Skate Jam
📍 Sussex Inlet – Sunday 12 October 2025
- 10:00 am Beginner Skate Class
- 11:15 am Intermediate Skate Class
- 12:15 pm Skate Jam
Cost: Free
Bookings: Required via Totem Skateboarding
Wet Weather: If cancelled, the event will be rescheduled.
🛡️ Safety & Gear
- First aiders will be on site.
- All gear provided (helmet, board, pads), or bring your own if you prefer.
Have Your Say
Check out the Feature Voting Wall and help decide what features make it into the upgraded skate parks!
Why This Matters
The students’ ideas point to a simple truth: when young people lead, design improves and community pride grows. They’re asking for spaces that are safe, social, and skill-building—places that get friends outside together, offer progression for all levels, and make everyone feel welcome.
Project Skate shows how youth-led ideas don’t just improve skate parks—they build stronger communities.
Supported By
This project is proudly funded by Bendigo Bank, with assistance from Sanctuary Point Community Pride Inc., Sussex Inlet Neighbourhood Centre, and Firefly Bay and Basin.