Warracknabeal Secondary Students Provide Feedback To Council

Published on 22 July 2026

Students’ Ideas Helping Shape the Future of Warracknabeal

Yarriambiack Shire Council Mayor Andrew McLean has welcomed a series of thoughtful community improvement ideas from Physical Education students at Warracknabeal Secondary College, praising their initiative and commitment to making their community an even better place to live.

On Friday 19 June, Chief Executive Officer, Tammy Smith, received 15 letters from Warracknabeal Secondary College students outlining ideas to improve their community.  The students' teacher advised that the class had used artificial intelligence (AI) as a positive tool to help develop and refine their letters.

Mayor McLean said he was impressed by the quality of the suggestions and the genuine desire of students to contribute to community life.

"Our CEO and l were delighted to receive the students' letters and to see the level of thought that had gone into their ideas," Cr McLean said.

"The students identified practical opportunities to improve recreation, accessibility, safety and community connection.  It is encouraging to see young people actively thinking about the future of their community and using technology positively to help communicate their ideas."

The letters highlighted a strong focus on creating inclusive, safe and engaging spaces for young people while also delivering benefits for the broader community.

"Young people's voices are vital to planning for our communities.  Their feedback helps Council better understand the needs and priorities of younger residents and assists us in making informed decisions about future projects and investments," Cr McLean said.

Recreation and Sporting Opportunities

A recurring theme in the students' letters was the desire for increased access to recreational facilities and more opportunities for young people to participate in sport and physical activity.

Suggestions included extending opening hours at the Warracknabeal Stadium, providing structured activities and beginner programs, constructing additional sporting facilities, establishing a gym in Minyip, developing an archery program and improving running and walking tracks.

In response, Council will review opportunities to increase community access to the Warracknabeal Stadium while ensuring existing basketball programs continue to operate effectively. Council has committed to providing an update to the students by 30 September 2026.

Council will also continue discussions with the Minyip Progress Association regarding the development of a community gym and explore opportunities with the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly to deliver programs and activities that encourage participation in sport and recreation.

Cr McLean said one particularly exciting opportunity was the proposed activation of the area surrounding the Warracknabeal Stadium and Shire Office precinct.

"We recognise the strong community support for facilities that encourage active lifestyles and social connection," he said.

"Council is proposing to develop a concept for the precinct that could include a half-court basketball facility, outdoor seating and phone charging stations.  Importantly, we want students involved in helping shape the design and vision for this space."

Council will invite interested students to participate in a project group that will help inform future designs and funding applications.

Public Safety and Accessibility

Students also highlighted the importance of safer and more accessible public spaces, calling for additional street lighting, improved lighting along walking tracks and the construction of more footpaths.

While recognising these priorities, Cr McLean noted the significant financial challenges local governments face in delivering major infrastructure projects.

Council has, however, secured Transport Accident Commission funding to deliver substantial safety improvements around the Warracknabeal education precinct, including raised pedestrian crossings, traffic-calming measures, connecting footpaths, street lighting and improved signage along Werrigar Street and Anderson Street.

"Council strongly supports the students' vision for safer and more accessible public spaces," Cr McLean said.

"These upcoming improvements will enhance pedestrian safety around our schools and provide important benefits for students, families and the wider community."

Mayor McLean also extended an invitation to students to learn more about how local government funding decisions are made.

"The CEO and l would welcome the opportunity to speak with students about how Council funding is allocated and the financial challenges faced by rural councils when balancing community expectations with available resources."

Transport Advocacy

Improved public transport was another key issue raised by students, particularly the need for better connections to education, employment and social opportunities for young people who do not yet hold a driver's licence.

Cr McLean said Council remains a strong advocate for better transport outcomes across the region.

"We recognise that transport can be a significant barrier for young people and many members of our community," he said.

"Council continues to advocate strongly for improved transport services and has raised these concerns directly with V/Line and the Victorian Government."

Council has met with the Chief Executive Officer of V/Line and written to the Minister for Education regarding concerns about transport funding associated with the School to Work program.  Advocacy on this issue will continue.

Turning Ideas into Action

Mayor McLean said Council has committed to sharing the students' ideas with the Warracknabeal Action Group Executive Committee and will seek to ensure the proposals are considered through the Warracknabeal Community Action Plan.

Feedback will also be provided to the Minyip Progress Association regarding the proposed community gym, which aligns with current local advocacy efforts.

Cr McLean said Council looks forward to updating Warracknabeal Secondary College students later this year on progress and to discuss opportunities for ongoing involvement.

"These students have demonstrated a genuine interest in shaping the future of their community, and that should be celebrated," he said.

"We were very pleased to receive their letters, and I encourage all young people to continue sharing their ideas, perspectives and feedback. Working together, we can build stronger, healthier and more connected communities across Yarriambiack."

END OF RELEASE

Mayor

Cr Andrew McLean