Youth in Milang and surrounds now have access to regular social, recreational and sports activities through a weekly after-school youth program in the Old Regatta Yacht Club. 

It is coordinated by Reclink Australia, a not-for-profit organisation providing accessible community sport and art and recreational programs for young Australians.

The after-school program aims to increase health, personal development, social connection and inclusion amongst young people in Milang and surrounding areas. 

Alexandrina Council says Milang is known as a tight-knit community of over 900 people with a can-do attitude. 

While there are a range of local social opportunities for adults, currently there are little to no after-school or weekend youth activities in the township. 

As with many regional townships, lack of public transport presents a challenge for young people to travel to activities in nearby larger towns. 

Through partnership with Reclink Australia, Milang and District Community Association, Alexandrina Local Drug Action Team and

Alexandrina Council secured funding from the Alcohol and Drug Foundation to develop a regular program for youth activities in the township. 

Chief Executive Officer Nigel Morris says this partnership will reopen the doors of the Old Regatta Yacht Club as a dedicated youth space, now named the ‘Milang Youth Hub’. 

”As a council we are really proud to be supporting the development and resourcing of this youth program. Equity of access is challenging in a large regional area such as Alexandrina. 

“Council has received ongoing feedback that emphasises the need for activities for Milang’s youth and this program is a step towards ensuring young people feel connected and valued in their community.” 

Reclink State Manager SA, Andy Asser says, “like Nelson Mandela I believe that sport and recreation has the power to change the world and unite people - it speaks to youth in a language they understand. 

“I’ve worked with Reclink for over 20 years now, and I’ve personally seen how sport, art and recreation can engage and support people, and in some cases transform their lives. 

“This initiative has the potential to do exactly that for our young people here in Milang and have positive impacts on their wellbeing for years to come.” 

A Summer Fun Day was held on Sunday 5 February to launch the program and invite young people and their families to get a taste of the program and find out more. 

The youth program will kick off on Friday 10 February, 4.30-6pm every Friday during the school term. 

The first few sessions will be held at the Milang Institute before moving over to the new Milang Youth Hub once final preparations have been made. 

For more information, contact the Reclink Youth Activities Coordinator on 0432 304 166 or via email. 

Anyone aged 19+ interested in volunteering their time, who have or would like to gain skills and experience in sport, recreation or community services or who would like to support this project in any way should contact MOSHCC on 8537 0687 or visit the website.