Dorset Rural Youth revival
• Local teenager Montanna Gilroy is calling for youths to register their interest in reviving Dorset’s Rural Youth Club.
By Taylor Clyne
May 13, 2020
After a two-year hiatus local teenager Montanna Gilroy is calling for young people to register their interest in reviving Dorset’s Rural Youth Group.
In the past the group proved very successful in providing locals aged between 15-30 years a place for training and social opportunities in the agricultural sector.
Former president Jess Forsyth said unfortunately numbers dwindled over the years which forced the club into recess.
“I was involved on and off since I was about sixteen years old, members used to volunteer at Agfest, compete in club challenges and enter the young farmer competition,” she said.
“We used to hold the Dorset Damnation every year in the Scottsdale area too.
“Unfortunately, over time people lost interest and other members turned thirty which was the age cut off, it would be great to see it up and running again.”
Miss Gilroy said she’d love to see likeminded youths get the club going again to help locals learn new skills and explore individual talents.
“I’ve had roughly 15 people say they are interested so far,” she said.
“The group would run under Rural Youth which requires a yearly membership but being a member gives you so many opportunities.”
These involve belonging to a network of young people in Tasmania, being able to apply for interstate and international study tours, attend premier field days and obtain subsidies for first aid and educational courses.
“I think it will help bring more young locals together and out into our community more too,” Miss Gilroy said.
“You don't have to come from a farm or farming background to join Rural Youth and there is something for everyone.”
Those interested in helping Montanna revive the Dorset Rural Youth Club are encouraged to phone/text 0490 216 633 or email montanna.gilroy@outlook.com