This month the Components Only and @ The Coalface $500 Community Gift goes to Teen Shed Mackay. In Mackay, a group of dedicated volunteers have come together to create a space where local teenagers can learn, grow, and thrive.

Teen Shed Mackay Inc. is a non-profit organisation and has quickly become a beacon of hope for young people in the area, offering a supportive community where teenagers can connect with peers, learn new skills, and build confidence designed to be youth focused and youth led.

Since its inception, Teen Shed Mackay has been providing a safe and welcoming space for teenagers to participate in a range of activities. Bootcamp fitness, yoga for youth, learn to fish, candle making, ceramics and more. The program’s experienced volunteers offer mentoring and guidance, helping young people to develop new skills and gain a sense of purpose.

For many of the teenagers who participate in the program, Teen Shed Mackay has become a second home.

Lisa, a Teen Shed volunteer said, “The Shed is a place where kids can be themselves and feel accepted for who they are. It’s a place where they can feel safe and supported, and where they can make new friends and try new things.”

The impact of the program on local teenagers has been significant, with many participants reporting improved mental health and greater resilience.

Teen Shed Mackay is about much more than just teaching skills, it’s about building relationships, fostering a sense of community, and helping young people to develop the confidence and resilience they need to succeed in life.

For the teenagers who participate in the program, Teen Shed Mackay is a place where they can feel valued, supported, and empowered. As youth member Alexis put it, “The Shed has helped me to find my passion and given me the confidence to pursue my dreams. I’m so grateful to everyone who has made this program possible.”

The Mackay Teen Shed is open to all teenagers in the area, and the program’s organisers are encouraging parents and caregivers to spread the word about the initiative.

With its focus on building community and fostering positive relationships, the Teen Shed is an invaluable space for young people in the Mackay region that is constantly adding more events and opportunities for young people. 

Teen Shed Mackay is a shining example of what can be achieved when a group of dedicated volunteers comes together to support their local community.