A new program offering nature-based activities for young people aged 12 to 25 has launched in Shepparton.
Nature Neighbours is facilitated by Loz from headspace Shepparton and Tones from the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project, providing a structured outdoor outlet for local youth.
Rooted in Research and Co-Design
The program builds directly on findings from the Nature Scripts program, a partnership between the People & Parks Foundation, the University of Melbourne, and headspace Shepparton. Crucially, it has been co-designed with young people and incorporates First Nations principles of wellbeing and reciprocity.
Activities and Partnerships
Participants can enjoy a range of engaging activities, including:
- Nature journaling
- Nature-connection games
- Learning about the local land
- Playful elements such as hide and seek or treasure hunts
The program collaborates with local groups including RiverConnect, Find Your Feathers, and Landcare.
Funding and Support
Nature Neighbours is made possible by a grant from La Trobe University’s Violet Vines Marshman Centre for Rural Health Research.
Schedule and Registration
Two age-specific streams are available:
- For ages 12-17: Thursday nights, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM (weekly or alternate weeks)
- For ages 18-25: Thursday nights, 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM (alternate weeks)
Contact: headspace Shepparton at (03) 5823 8800 – ask for Loz.
To register: