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Local youth skate, create, and celebrate at festival finale

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Renton Millar judged dozens of tricks during the BMX, skate, and scoot competition. Photo by Megan Fisher

A solid end to the Greater Shepparton Youth Fest 2024 took place at the city’s concrete playground last Sunday.

Capping off a month-long celebration of youth, Shepparton Skate Park hosted a learn-to-skate workshop and an adrenaline-pumping competition across BMX, skate, and scoot disciplines.

Under the discerning eye of international expert Renton Millar, young competitors rolled into the park, displaying prowess on their metal steeds to win medals.

Away from the half-pipes, the Deadly Deks Art Workshop by First Nations artist Tammy Lee Atkinson intersected art and skateboarding, inviting participants to adorn decks with unique, personal designs.

It was a nod to the festival’s previous art workshops held in September, along with sporting events and social activities designed to engage and inspire the younger generation.

Louise Mitchell, director of community at Greater Shepparton City Council, expressed pride in the initiative’s success, enabling local youth to express themselves creatively, stay active, and create lasting memories.

“Greater Shepparton Youth Fest 2024 was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and showcase the talents of our young people,” she said.

“(These initiatives) empower our young people and we look forward to hosting more events that inspire and connect them in the future.”

Council wished to thank its partners: the Victorian Government, FReeZA, Shredability, all event organisers, and everyone who attended and participated throughout the festival.

Young creatives designing their skateboard decks at the Deadly Deks Art Workshop. Photo by Supplied