Hilltops Yag Makeover Lions Lookout Shelter

IMAGE: Members of Hilltops Youth Action Group give the Lions Lookout Shelter a face lift.

The Hilltops Youth Action Group (HYAG) has given the Lions Lookout Shelter an uplift with great results.

Lions Club Publicity Officer Heather Miller said the first stage of the upgrade had been completed, but the next stage would be next year following the easing of temperatures for the comfort of students and their supporters.

“The students have shown commitment, versatility and a sound sense of structure within their application and design,” Ms Miller said. “The Lions Club members appreciate your efforts.”

Joy Cornish, who has been instrumental in guiding the project said there was still a bit of work to be done on the mural, and as it stood was still a work in progress.

Youth Officer at Hilltops Council Emily Green said the HYAG was honoured that the Young Lion’s Club had trusted them with this project.

“We can’t thank the Young Lion’s Club and Joy enough,” Ms Green said.

“A total of eight HYAG members have contributed to this project over three workshop days and two painting days.

The idea for this mural emerged during my initial meetings with the group, where I explored options for securing a grant to create a mural.”

“I quickly learned that a grant from the Lion’s Club had already been approved but not yet acted upon.”

“After discussions with Stuart Freudenstein, the Lion’s Club President, and Ted Hill, the Hilltops Council Open Spaces Coordinator, I discovered their ongoing efforts to enhance the shelter area.”

“Once we received the necessary approvals and with ideal weather conditions, we eagerly commenced the project. For HYAG, engaging in community service projects like this mural is profoundly meaningful.”

“It instils a sense of pride and excitement among members, as we create something beneficial for both the local community and travellers passing through.”

“Participating in such initiatives not only fosters teamwork and leadership skills but also promotes mental well-being by providing a creative outlet and a sense of belonging.”

“Furthermore, community engagement through art has been shown to enhance social cohesion and mental health outcomes, allowing young people to develop a positive identity and connection to their community.”

Ms Green said they hoped their contributions would inspire excitement and pride within the community.

“Our involvement serves as a testament to the capability of young people to make significant impacts and to contribute positively to our region,” Ms Green said.

“Looking ahead, our group aims to finalise the mural and complete the shelter in the coming months.”

Ms Green said that coordinating schedules for the final phase of the project has proven challenging due to HSC exams, sporting commitments and community events such as the National Cherry Festival, but they eagerly anticipate the official unveiling of the completed shelter.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Young Lions Club, Joy Cornish and Bunnings for their generous contributions of resources and support throughout this project,” Ms Green said.

“We are proud to be part of such a caring community and appreciate the encouragement we have received.”