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A Good Time’s a Safe Time, for Bass Coast Schoolies

Bass Coast Shire Council prepares to welcome the the Cool Schoolies.

By Portal Admin - 29th November 2017 - Back to News

Bass Coast Shire Council is busily preparing for Schoolies week as young people from across Victoria head to Phillip Island from 24 November to celebrate the end of Year 12.

Bass Coast is participating in the state-wide campaign, Good Times Safe Breaks, which aims to ensure Schoolies Week activities are a positive experience for young people, their families and the broader community.

Council is working closely with Victoria Police, local businesses, emergency services and volunteer agencies to ensure young people have a great time and stay safe.

Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Pamela Rothfield explained that every year thousands of young people flock to coastal towns across the state to celebrate Schoolies Week, and Phillip Island is one of the top destinations.

"For many teenagers this might be their first time away from home, and it’s important that we do our bit to welcome them and ensure they have a safe and memorable experience in Bass Coast," Cr Rothfield said.

Schoolies are encouraged to plan accommodation ahead of time and register online with Good Times Great Breaks The registration will give young people access to a range of supports and ‘freebies’, such as transport, bottled water, discounted meals and information on local attractions.

"The registration also helps Council, police and emergency services to adequately resource the community."

Council’s waste services have been expanded and Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria will have additional resources during the busiest period.

Red Frogs and DanceWize will also be at the forefront of Schoolies Week on Phillip Island. These voluntary organisations provide outreach support to young people through peer education and support services such as free transport, BBQ’s and cooked breakfasts. DanceWize are a program of Harm Reduction Victoria and utilise a peer education model to reduce drug and alcohol related harm.provide peer support to reduce drug and alcohol related harm.

Registered Schoolies will also receive regular safety messages via their mobile phones.

We encourage residents to contact Bass Coast Shire Council if they have any concerns relating to Schoolies Week by calling Council on 1300 BCOAST (226 278). In the case of an emergency contact Victoria Police on ‘000’.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: support@gippsland.com