The program for Youth Week in the Clarence Valley has been released and it’s packed with activities, including live music, skate, BMX and scooter clinics, and opportunities for youth to have their views heard.

Also included is a ‘sunset shindig’ and an open air cinema.

Youth Week this year runs from April 10-18 and the theme is coming together to connect, share, speak out and celebrate.

Clarence Valley Council youth development officer, Allira Newton, said council, and a number of local services had come together to provide some exciting youth week activities.

“We listened to young people through conversations through the Clarence Youth Action group during their youth opportunities events last year,” she said.

“We are keen to know more about what young people want in the community, so we are kicking of the week off with two youth forums.

“The first will be in South Grafton at the New School of Arts Neighbourhood House Hall on April 10 from 10am-noon and the next day we will be at the Maclean at the Civic Hall from 11am-1pm.

“Lunch will be provided and booking are essential. Please contact 0428 420 908 for more details.

“We hope to see plenty of young people coming along to talk all things youth.”

The Live and Loud is on Thursday, April 11, from 6-9pm and Ms Newton encouraged any young person wanting to get some experience playing a live gig to sign up for a spot to play on the night. There will be free pizza and a great relaxed vibe.

She said the plunge Arts and Culture Festival had become a big part of the Clarence Valley youth week organisers were partnering with plunge to run a youth event following the Big Picnic in the Park in Market Square on Saturday, April 13. The Sunset Shindig, featuring popular entertainer Tullara Connors, will run from 5-9pm at Market Square.

“This event may have a youth focus but we hope the whole community sticks around or comes along and becomes involved, as a way to stick with the theme of Youth Week in connecting, sharing and celebrating young people and their valuable contributions in our community,” Ms Newton said.

“There will be youth acts, workshops, food Trucks and plenty of giveaways.

The open air cinema at Yamba Oval from 4-9pm on April 14 will feature a screening Marvels Antman and the Wasp – this will be an afternoon full of fun and entertainment. It will have laser skirmish, Ana and Jed, a free barbecue, popcorn and giveaways.

The movie will kick off about 6pm when the sun goes down, there will lots of fun to be had from 4pm. Bring a blanket and a cushion and enjoy the movie.

Other events include skate, scooter and BMX clinics, sexual health workshops, outdoor games and the Out of the Box school holiday program, which will be run in conjunction with youth week.

“We have really tried to connect community as best we can and reach as many young people in the process,” Ms Newton said.

All Youth Week events are drug and alcohol free. Under 13s must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

For more information visit Clarence Valley Youth Facebook page and for bookings call Allira on 0428 420 908.