New era for flood-ravaged Youth ARC

Published on 18 November 2019

Hobart's Youth Arts and Recreation Centre (ARC) will throw open its doors this week, following a major refurbishment brought on by last year’s flood event.

The venue will be officially opened on Tuesday afternoon, kick-starting a full program of activities open to young people aged 12-24.

“The reopening of the Youth ARC is an important milestone both in the city’s recovery from the May 2018 floods and in the lives of the young people the centre supports,” Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said.

“Following the closure of the venue, a temporary drop-in centre was set up at Mathers Place and activities were held at other locations. But we knew it was important to get the centre back up and running.

“We’re so pleased to see the centre reopen and looking better than ever.”

In addition to the necessary repairs to internal walls, electrical wiring, flooring and other fixtures, the space has been upgraded with some new features and improvements.

“There’s now a café area where young people can enjoy a quiet coffee in a contemporary space that’s a bit separate to the rest of the venue,” Community, Culture and Events Committee Chair Cr Bill Harvey said.

“It will also be the new hub for Youth ARC’s food program, which brings young people and volunteers together to cook meals.

“There’s all new furniture and equipment ready for use. Whether you’re into gaming, music, sport, art or just hanging out with your friends in a relaxed space, the centre provides young people with a space to call their own.”

In recognition of a new era for Youth ARC, a mural is currently being created by local artist Jamin, who will mentor aspiring young artists through the centre.

“The centre was full of art created by young people, so the addition of this mural is quite symbolic,” Cr Harvey said.

The drop-in centre will operate Tuesday to Friday from 3 pm until 6 pm, with dance, music and art workshops held every week. The space has facilities for gaming, eight-ball, table tennis, cooking, dance, basketball and other sports and more.