Schoolies Working Group

Transcription

Schoolies Down South 2008
Report and Evaluation
CONTENTS:
1.
page 3
p3
p4
Context for 2008 Approach
1.1
Brief Overview of 2008
1.2
Planning Summary for 2008
2.
page 5
p5
p5
p6
2.1
2.2
Terms of Reference and Scope
2.3
Stakeholders
3.
page 7
p7
p8
p8
p9
p 10
p 11
p 12
p 13
p 13
p 14
Major Partnerships
3.1
Local Partners
- YSAS (Youth Worker Program)
- Red Frogs – Hotel Chaplaincy Australia
- Surf Coast Shire
- Victoria Police
- GORCC
- The Munday Group (Lorne and Torquay Hotel)
- Emergency Services
- Accommodation Providers
- Lorne Business and Tourism Association and Torquay
Commerce and Tourism Association
- State and Commonwealth Partnerships
NEW Partnerships
- Red Cross SAM
- headspace Barwon
- Student Life
TAC Community Road Safety Grant
p 15
p 16
p 16
p 16
p 16
p 17
4.
page 18
p 18
p 19
p 19
p 20
p 20
p 21
p 21
p 22
p 22
p 23
p 25
Major Strategies for 2008
4.1
Red Frogs
4.2
Youth Worker Program
4.3
Media and Communications Strategy
4.4
Young People’s Health Clinic
4.5
Police Resources
4.6
Schoolies Down South Information
4.7
Transport Program
4.8
Recommended Accommodation Providers’ Code of
Practice
4.9
Water Program
4.10
Glass Free
4.11
1
p 26
p 26
4.12
4.13
Registrations & Wristbands
The Munday Group
5.
page 27
p 27
p 28
p 28
p 29
p 30
p 33
p 34
p 37
p 40
p 42
p 45
p 45
p 46
p 46
p 47
Outcomes and Evaluation
5.1
Evaluation Measures
5.2
Statistics for 2008
- Lorne Community Hospital
- CFA – Coastal Group of Fire Brigades
- YSAS
- Lorne Police
- Torquay Police
- Red Frogs – Lorne
- Red Frogs – Torquay
- Communications Surf Coast Shire
- Munday Group
- GORCC
- Red Cross – Save-a-mate (SAM)
- Grandview Rd Holiday House
- Surf Coast Tourism
6.
page 49
p 49
p 50
p 51
p 52
p 52
The Future and Recommendations
6.1
Schoolies Working Group 2009
6.2
SWISC and State Level Co-ordination
6.3
Partnerships within Surf Coast Shire
6.4
Recommendations for 2009
6.5
Resources and Funding 2009
7.
page 53
p 53
p 54
p 70
p 72
p 78
p 79
p 90
p 91
p 93
p 97
p 103
p 111
Appendices
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
7.7
7.8
7.9
7.10
7.11
7.12
Table of Community and Government Contributions
Schoolies Down South Action Plan 08/09
Schoolies Working Group Terms of Reference
Youth Worker Program Service Agreement
Colour Coded Wristband Form (example)
Examples of Media and Correspondence
Info Sheet for Young People
Community Fact Sheet
Accommodation Providers Fact Sheets
Registration Forms – Data Analysis
Stakeholder Debrief Minutes
Community Debrief Minutes
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1. Context for 2008 Approach
1.1
Brief overview of 2008
2008 was viewed as a successful year by Schoolies Working Group (SWG). Communication
between the key stakeholders was excellent and this was evident by how practise was
implemented on the ground.
Extra resources - made possible from a one-off TAC Community Road Safety Grant - meant
that SWG could trial new initiatives including: registration and wristbands; VMS signage;
extra security and rubbish collection on the Foreshore in Lorne; Police in Hummers in both
locations; and Police on horseback in Lorne. All of these resources were viewed with equal
positivity, and will be under review for 2009.
Serious criminal offences were down in 2008 as compared to 2007. Assault continues to be
problematic, usually generated by Toolies who appear to be looking for anti-social
opportunities. Police resources were increased and staff appeared well trained and very
approachable.
The Munday Group trialled new strategies at both the Lorne and Torquay Hotels and
received accolades from both the Police and Liquor Licensing, placing them at the forefront
of licensee management in Victoria.
SWG were in a sense lucky as the weather was relatively cool for that time of year. Rain
was common during the designated two week Schoolies Period, keeping School Leavers on
the streets to a minimum.
Actual numbers are difficult to judge however anecdotal evidence and observations
summarise that Lorne appeared quieter, whilst Torquay was busier. Generally most School
Leavers were very well behaved, and many workers and residents commented on how polite
and lovely the young people were. It remains problematic that a very small percentage of
young people continue to cause problems and generate complaints from locals who find the
Schoolies Period difficult to tolerate.
Thank-you to all of the hard work that each member of SWG contributed to the Harm
Minimisation Program for 2008. The amount of work and commitment that goes into keeping
risk to a minimum is exceptional, and most often without praise and recognition. It is without
doubt that without your contribution the Schoolies Period would be out of control, and a
nightmare for emergency services having to react to incidences at crisis point.
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1.2
Planning Summary
Schoolies planning for 2008 started early in the year with an internal meeting for Surf Coast
Shire management on 21st January. Schoolies Working Group then began their planning for
the end of year celebrations with a planning meeting 7th February. General Schoolies
Working Group (SWG) meetings began Friday 7th March in Lorne and alternated monthly
between Torquay and Lorne for the reminder of the year.
Once again there was a de-brief process in 2007 (see 2007 Schoolies Down South Report
and Evaluation) which fed into the planning process for 2008. The outcomes/
recommendations of the 2007 de-briefs are listed below:
Stakeholder De-brief
x Notice boards around town
x Firm dates for Schoolies Period
x Improvements to the Media Strategy in form of a Communications Strategy
x Community Engagement – improve information process
x Improve data collection
x Review Terms of Reference
x Revisit Health Clinic in Lorne
Community De-brief
x Greater enforcement of the by-laws over the Schoolies Period
x Greater Police visibility
x Increased communication with the community
x Rubbish and vandalism (improved management)
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2. Schoolies Working Group
2.1
The Schoolies Working Group (SWG) was established in March 2005. The SWG was
originally established as a sub-committee of the Community Impact Advisory Committee
(CIAC). The SWG is co-ordinated by the Youth Development Unit at Surf Coast Shire. SWG
has a range of strategies based on harm minimisation and minimal impact to the community
and the environment. The working group represents a partnership between local
government, Police, community groups, emergency services, traders and youth
organisations.
In 2008 the Schoolies Period was from 22nd November – 6th December. Previously in 2007,
the Schoolies Period was defined by accommodation bookings and spanned a 3 week
period. Members of SWG and the community advocated for the period of time to be reduced
as services were exhausted and stretched in a 3 week period. SWG informed
Accommodation Providers and young people via the Schoolies Down South Website of the
dates for the 2008 period.
Unfortunately for SWG management there were still a number of accommodation bookings in
the third week, despite there being some vacancies available in the second week. Due to
bookings in the 3rd week, some residents were concerned about the reduction in services in
the 3rd week. The issue of dates remains a difficult issue to resolve. On one hand residents
inform us that they want the period of time reduced due to the disruption, on the other hand
when we reduce the period we receive feedback about concern in regards to reduced
services.
Accommodation Providers are the key to consistent bookings and a defined Schoolies
Period. Some Accommodation Providers rely on the business from school leavers, while
others say that their business is negatively affected by the presence of School Leavers in
high numbers.
Partnerships with Accommodation Providers were improved in 2008 with the introduction of
the wrist band process.
2.2
Terms of Reference and Scope
The Schoolies Working Group was formed on a model of Stakeholder collaboration and cooperation, with recognition that all members are responsible for their actions to be consistent
with their representative organisations. Members work together on common goals to make
the Schoolies Period a safer and more enjoyable experience for both young people and the
community.
The purpose of SWG is to facilitate integrated planning to manage this peak period (end of
VCE Year 12 exam period in November for 2 weeks into December) in accordance with harm
5
minimisation principles, and to enhance community safety in relation to Schoolies Down
South.
The role of SWG as per the Terms of Reference are as follows:
x
The SWG is a multi-disciplinary group. Individuals on the Working Group will represent
their own agencies as stakeholders in Schoolies Down South.
x
The Working Group will co-ordinate advice on policy and procedures for the Schoolies
Period amongst the representative agencies / stakeholders.
x
The representatives on the committee are responsible for their own agency commitments
and resourcing.
x
The committee will be proactive and emphasise community planning.
x
The SWG will have a representative from CIAC who will ensure that feedback is provided
to the groups (Lorne, Torquay and the CIAC Strategic Planning Meetings), to maintain the
link and relationship with CIAC.
2.3
Stakeholders
SWG has commitment of a broad range of professionals and community groups. The key
stakeholders attend regular monthly meetings, in addition to their own organisation planning
and requirements. In 2008, SWG was made up of the following organisations and groups:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Surf Coast Shire
x Emergency Services
YSAS
x Lorne Community Hospital
Victoria Police
x Rural Ambulance Victoria
Red Frogs
x Lorne Business and Tourism
Traders
Lorne Hotel (Munday Group)
x Torquay Commerce & Tourism
Torquay Hotel (Munday Group)
Association
Lorne Accommodation Providers
x headspace Barwon
Torquay Accommodation Providers
x Student Life
Great Ocean Road Coast
Committee (GORCC)
x Red Cross
x CFA
The above mentioned organisations make a genuine long term commitment to management
of the Schoolies Period for the Torquay and Lorne communities. These organisations
contribute financially however, much of their support is in-kind and a testament to the
competent, dedicated staff with the
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3. Major Partnerships
3.1
Local Partners
Schoolies Working Group is a crucial component in the success of implementing an effective
Harm Minimisation Program. In 2008 communication processes and consensus in regards to
service delivery was a vast improvement from 2007. SWG is the main strength when
reflecting on the Schoolies Period in general, so for improvements to be made from 2007 to
2008 it was a credit to the local partners commitment.
SWG via Surf Coast Shire applied for four important funding streams:
1.
2.
3.
4.
AER Foundation Conference Attendance Grant
National Binge Drinking Strategy Community Initiative Grant
Office for Youth
1. Surf Coast Shire was successful in their application for approximately $1250 to secure
two additional spots at the National Schoolies Conference in Rottnest Island. This
enabled the Vice-President of Lorne Business Tourism Association / Accommodation
Provider and the Sergeant of Torquay Police station to attend.
2. Surf Coast Shire applied for the TAC Community Road Safety Grant in partnership with
YSAS and Red Frogs. The application for $20 000 was successful. The funding received
from this grant became a crucial part of the successful implementation of new resources
in 2008.
3. Surf Coast Shire with support from Office for Youth applied for $250 000 of the federally
funding Community Imitative Grant. Unfortunately the application was unsuccessful.
This application contained almost 30 support letters and given the strength of the
application independent feedback has been sought and at the time of writing is in
process.
4. Surf Coast Shire was granted $30 000 from Office for Youth. These funds directly fund
the Youth Worker Program provided by YSAS.
SWG and a collaborative approach assists the group in accessing funds so that adequate
resourcing of the Harm Minimisation Program is achieved. Currently most of the resources
attributed to management of the period are in-kind. If adequate and on-going resources were
sought then restrictions would be removed that define the types of interventions we have the
resources to implement.
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YSAS (Youth Worker Program)
Funding for the Youth Worker Program was made available by Office for Youth in 2008.
Previously Surf Coast Shire accessed the funding from Premier’s Drug Prevention Council.
YSAS provided 4 workers for the Schoolies Period (2 weeks) each night in Lorne and 2
workers in Torquay. For more operational information see the Service Agreement Appendix
4.
The Youth Worker Program is a crucial element of the Harm Minimisation Program. The
Youth Worker program ensures that young people have trained and experienced workers on
the ground that can support them with issues, concerns and crises. Youth workers are
inducted and trained for the Schoolies Program via the YSAS organisation (who they are
employed by) and have very clear boundaries with accurate referral information and
processes.
Young people are informed about the Youth Workers via the info sheet; inductions; partners
of SWG; presence at welcome BBQs and most importantly their presence on the streets at
night – the workers wear bright blue tops with reflective writing.
In 2007 Youth Workers were employed for afternoon shifts to engage with young people
(while they were less affected by substances), Accommodation Providers and businesses.
Whilst this intervention was very useful, youth workers were often tired during the day and a
focus on night time activity was viewed as a priority. headspace Barwon and Red Cross
were able to provide some day time services for young people and the community.
Funding continues to cover the bare minimum for the Schoolies Period. YSAS as an
organisation contribute a huge amount of in-kind resources to ensure that their service can
perform at optimum services. SWG are very lucky to have the backing of such a professional
organisation, however to be reliant on goodwill is disconcerting.
Red Frogs - Hotel Chaplaincy Australia
Red Frogs are the face and presence that young people identify with during the Schoolies
Period. Most if not all young people know about the Red Frogs, who they are, what they look
like and that they are there to help, and sometimes feed them!
Red Frogs is a national organisation, well known for the support that it provides to young
people and local communities during the school leaver period. The Red Frogs is a group of
young volunteers, co-ordinated through local church groups as part of the nondenominational Christian based national program run by Hotel Chaplaincy Australia.
Red Frogs provided a service from 27th November – 6th December in Lorne and 29th
November – 6th December in Torquay. Approximately 70 volunteers ascended to offer their
support in Lorne and about 20 in Torquay.
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Red Frog volunteers are all allocated different tasks and locations to offer service. Red
Frogs reside where young people are staying and they really are amongst the fabric of
Schoolies, and young people are happy to make them part of their experiences. Red Frogs
also drive the shuttle buses in both locations. An extra bus was available this year due to
support from the TAC Community Road Safety Grant, one driven by an Accommodation
Provider in Lorne, and the additional bus driven by the Red Frogs in Torquay.
Red Frogs has a number of supportive roles. Some of these include: they offer huge support
to Accommodation Providers, actually residing on-site within the environment of the young
people; provide drivers for the Shuttle Buses; provide a Chill Out Zone in Lorne; arrange day
time activities for young people; provide young people with food and water; engage and
communicate with young people; provide information to SWG; provide referrals to YSAS;
assistance at SWG weekly BBQs; help to maintain the environment by collecting rubbish and
educating young people about local laws and they are on the ground the entire time they are
present, from early morning until very late at night.
The Red Frogs is a highly co-ordinated organisation and an integral communication tool
during the Schoolies Period. Red Frogs are pro-active: engaging with young people;
listening to them; having fun; and being there with young people. Although also pro-active to
some extent in providing information and education, the Youth Workers are the workers
equipped with the skills and specialist knowledge essential to react and respond to situations.
The two organisations have a common respect and understanding of each other and
therefore provide a strong partnership and strength to the SWG.
The Red Frogs were not involved in the Schoolies Period for the full two weeks. Red Frogs
made this decision based on their available resources. Other members of the SWG felt the
pressure without the presence of Red Frogs, particularly without the buses running. This is
something that will need to be discussed in 2009 as the info sheet provided to young people
was confusing with different start times for services.
Surf Coast Shire
Surf Coast Shire provides a number of services for the community during the Schoolies
Period. Surf Coast Shire also provides the coordination of the Schoolies Working Group and
this role is allocated to the Youth Development Unit. Youth Development coordinates the
monthly meetings and also maintains a solid working relationship with the working group at a
state level.
Schoolies Week Inter-agency Steering Committee (SWISC) is coordinated by Office for
Youth (OFY) which is part of the Department of Planning and Community Development. Surf
Coast Shire and OFY have developed a good working relationship, committed to finding the
resources required for appropriate management of the Schoolies Period across the state.
SWG is a sub-group of CIAC as mentioned previously. CIAC is coordinated by the Events
Unit at the Shire. It is important for communication streams to remain open and effective
between SWG, CIAC and SWISC with coordination by Youth Development.
9
There are a number of other workers at the Council who have a role in management of
Schoolies, or responding to community needs. Below is a list of the staff involved:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Team Leader Youth Development – Co-ordination of SWG
Youth Development Officer – Member SWG
Co-ordinator – Leisure and Cultural Services – Member SWG
Surf Coast Tourism Unit – Member SWG
Community Development – Consultation
Events – Co-ordination of CIAC
CEO - Consultation
Director Sustainable Communities - Consultation
Councillors - Consultation
The Mayor - Consultation
Waste Management - Partner
Customer Service – Information provider
Tourism Information Centres – Correspondence and referral outlet
Local Laws - Partner
Communications – Member SWG
Planning & Environment – Member SWG
Victoria Police
The Schoolies Working Group has representatives from the District, both Torquay and Lorne
Police stations and the local Youth Resource Officer based at the Torquay station as
members of SWG. The inclusion of the Police on SWG is significant as Police are an integral
part of managing risks and responding to anti-social behaviours during the Schoolies Period.
Both Torquay and Lorne Police stations are open 24 hours during the Schoolies Period with
Victoria Police providing extra Police for extra operational hours (estimated at $100 000 per
station). Not only is this strategy essential to respond to crime and incidents, it is also
important as the community feel more supported and safe when there is someone to call is
necessary.
This year the police were much more visible, particularly in Lorne. At both destinations
Police Hummer’s were used and in Lorne on the middle weekend Police on horseback were
also used as part of an overall safety strategy. Unfortunately with these uncommon
measures, media attention was also drawn creating negative and inaccurate media coverage
see Appendix 6 “Lorne Police Pelted”.
The community and SWG made frequent comments about feeling supported and also about
their praise for the manner in which the officers went about fulfilling their roles. Reports were
consistent, praising Police for being approachable, fair, helpful and pleasant. Reports from
young people were that they felt safe and with quick responses from Police in regards to
disturbances they felt supported.
The increased Police presence was fantastic. One area where improvement could be made
is for more foot patrols, particularly in Torquay along the Foreshore. Torquay Police are
10
willing to discuss new strategies for 2009 at future SWG meetings, showing their commitment
to improvement of service.
GORCC
The Great Ocean Road Coast Committee (GORCC) has the responsibility to manage coastal
Crown land reserves on Victoria's Great Ocean Road from the Point Impossible east of
Torquay to the Cumberland River, southwest of Lorne.
GORCC was appointed in August 2004 and formally incorporated by the Victorian
Government in March 2005. GORCC is independent of Surf Coast Shire, but works in close
partnership with the Shire.
As a Crown land Committee of Management established under the Crown Land (Reserves
Act) 1978, GORCC has broad powers to manage the coastal land reserved for public
purposes on behalf of the Crown.
The area managed by GORCC was previously managed by five separate Foreshore
Committees of Management for Torquay, Anglesea, Airey's Inlet, Fairhaven and Lorne. The
main drivers for amalgamating these Committees of Management into a single committee
was the delivery of improved coastal management by providing efficiency gains and more
effective services.
Management of the Foreshore is a challenging role during the Schoolies and holiday period.
During the Schoolies Period thousands of young school leavers “hang out” at the Foreshore
where they can be together regardless if they are under or over 18. The Foreshore is an
area that requires a multi-disciplinary approach and response.
In 2008 GORCC and the Shire trialled sharing the costs of two new initiatives:
1. Extra security on the Foreshore.
2. Extra rubbish collection on the Foreshore and surrounding areas.
Two security personal were employed from 10pm – 5am each night. Security had several
specific tasks which included:
x Control of a portable light tower as advised by GORCC staff
x Movement of water barriers to control the flow of traffic to the car park
x Foot patrolling, specifically the Boardwalk, playground, pool and trampoline area and
toilets.
x Removal of people who are drinking via glass containers, particularly the sand areas
and playground.
x Extinguishing of any fires (where and if appropriate).
x Removing any cars that enter around the barricades to the Foreshore area.
x Removal of glass containers.
11
Extra security support was a fantastic initiative in 2008. Some tasks eased the pressure on
police, whilst some supported the volunteers and youth workers. The Foreshore is a highrisk area particularly when there are large groups who are substance affected. Security
increased the level of safety that assists in making the area safer for volunteers, youth
workers and young people.
The other initiative was two roaming staff collecting rubbish during the night between 10pm
and 4am. Staff collected rubbish from the Foreshore and surrounding areas. In previous
years staff and volunteers would be cleaning the Foreshore each morning for a few hours to
ensure that the area was left suitable for public use. For 2008 the rubbish was cleaned up
during the night which meant that more glass was collected prior to breakage and that
volunteer and staff time was not exhausted due to extended clean up times.
Even with new Council by-laws banning glass from the Foreshore from November 15 to
January 31 between 9pm and 6am every morning, glass remains a major issue for SWG and
GORCC. Extra rubbish collection was an excellent initiative to reduce the amount of broken
glass; however issues of packaging and public awareness still need to improve.
The Munday Group (Lorne and Torquay Hotel)
The Munday Group were outstanding supporters for SWG in 2008. The Munday Group
provides on-going support of SWG, positive support and resources during the Schoolies
Period and in 2008 trialed some new initiatives that received wide-spread praise.
The Munday Group again supported the Glass Free Campaign, by providing alternatives as
much as possible, education and signage. They also provided a shuttle bus and driver in
each location. On the second night in Lorne when a bus window was smashed by a Toolie,
the Munday Group provided an alternative bus at their expense to ensure that there was a
shuttle bus service.
The Munday Group received accolades from the police and liquor licensing for their
strategies during the Schoolies Period. These include:
x Serving drinks in plastic cups rather than glass
x Support of the Glass Free Campaign
x No jugs (in Lorne)
x One drink per customer past a certain time
x Free water
x A chill out zone (in Torquay)
x Responsible Service Officers (RSA) to monitor drinking behaviours
The Munday Group’s approach to Schoolies management was collaborative and multifaceted. The organization has shown a commitment to harm minimization and safety for
young people and the community. The extra resource of an RSA officer provided a crucial
link to their strategies. The RSA officer could monitor drinking behaviours and provide water
to patrons who needed to slow down. The officer could then advise bar staff and also
monitor the patron to ensure that they were taking a break. On other occasions if a patron
12
was assessed as needing to leave, the RSA officer would ensure that they were escorted by
their friends, or transported safely home via taxi or a shuttle bus. If friends escorted their
intoxicated friend home, they were given priority entry if they chose to return.
Emergency Services
Emergency Services regularly attend CIAC meetings and receive Schoolies updates either
via CIAC or via the SWG mailing list. Lifesaving Victoria attends SWISC and are utilised in a
consultative role for specialised information sharing etc.
Health Care in Lorne remains a major issue for the community, particularly in peak times. In
2007 Lorne was almost without a doctor on-call for a weekend during the Schoolies Period.
This year with a strengthened relationship with Lorne Community Hospital, doctor resourcing
was covered for the Schoolies Period.
Gayle Tierney Upper House Member for Western Victoria Region attended the September
meeting of Lorne CIAC to listen to the concerns regarding health management for Lorne. A
follow up meeting with Federal member for Corangamite Darren Cheeseman was arranged
in December. It is hopeful that these meetings increased knowledge of the health needs and
concerns for Lorne and that in turn action may result.
Accommodation Providers
Most of the Accommodation Providers involved in the Schoolies Period do not attend SWG.
SWG is a representative group; however there is no network of Accommodation Providers
and therefore no representative. Accommodation Providers are therefore a unique part of
SWG and can be added to the mailing list and attend if they wish. To some extent Surf
Coast Tourism; Lorne Business and Tourism Association; and Torquay Commerce and
Tourism represent Accommodation Providers, however they are not true representatives of a
body as such.
In 2007 SWG discussed our partnerships with Accommodation Providers and a desire to
strengthen the link between the two. The discussion began when the duration of the
Schoolies Period and how we manage the dates of the Schoolies Period was tabled at a
meeting. It was decided that we would trial an Accommodation Providers Forum, and this
was scheduled and arranged for 17th June 2008.
Unfortunately registered providers were too low for the forum to go ahead.
In 2008 Surf Coast Shire was successful in their application for a TAC Community Road
Safety Grant. Part of this application was implementation of wristbands to register School
Leavers. As coordinator of SWG the Team Leader of Youth Development administrated the
grant.
Surf Coast Tourism offered to assist with registration of School Leavers via Accommodation
Providers. This was a sensible partnership as Surf Coast Tourism sign providers to the
Schoolies Accommodation Code of Practise (see Appendix 7.9 for the Accommodation
13
Providers Fact Sheets and list of providers who have signed the code, a full copy of the Code
can be viewed on the Surf Coast Tourism website www.visitsurfcoast.com).
Thirty five Accommodation Providers registered their interests for wristbands for School
Leavers (19 Lorne & 16 Torquay, with some providers registering after the arrival of School
Leavers. The process of registering School Leavers and getting appropriate information
packs to providers has assisted in a more coordinated approach with Accommodation
Providers. The wristband and registration process will be under review for the 2009
Schoolies Period; however several positive comments have been received by both
Accommodation Providers and School Leavers.
Lorne Business and Tourism Association and Torquay Commerce and Tourism
Association
There are five Local Tourism & Trader Associations within SWG. Surf Coast Tourism works
in partnership with each of these associations. The two associations most relevant to the
Schoolies Working Group are:
x
x
Lorne Business and Tourism Association (LBTA)
Torquay Commerce and Tourism Association
Surf Coast Shire’s Tourism Coordinator is a member of the SWG and is the vital link between
the associations and the working group. The President of Lorne Business and Tourism
Association attends SWG meetings from time to time with the Vice President attending
regularly, and the President of Torquay Commerce and Tourism Association is on the mailing
list and has attended two meetings.
Representatives from LBTA have been quoted in local and Melbourne newspapers as being
in opposition to Schoolies in general. In February 2009 LBTA intend to research their
member’s views to find out how many are opposed to the Schoolies Period. It remains a
point of contention in Lorne that some businesses make money during this time, and others
feel that they lose business due to the culture of the Schoolies Period.
SWG hold the view that young people will come anyway and they cannot be stopped as it is
discrimination. So to some extent LBTA and SWG are opposed in their mindset. Although
there is a good working relationship between the LBTA and SWG, this difference of opinion
and lack of consensus prevents the two working together for best outcomes for the
community and businesses in Lorne.
14
State and Commonwealth Partnerships
SWISC held a planning meeting at the beginning of 2008. The structure of the meetings was
discussed, including membership. The group decided for the SWISC meetings to have four
priority areas and for the membership group to be reviewed. The four priority areas are listed
below followed by the current membership list:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Education
Communications
Supporting Local Communities
Research
x
x
x
Kati Krsevan – Director Office for Youth
Frank Angarane – Bass Coast Shire
Estelle P’Callaghan – DHS Drug and
Alcohol Policy
Leonie Lisiecki – Catholic Education Office
Robert Burns – Consumer Affairs Victoria
Sarah Reaper – Liquor Licensing
Liz Weir – Drug and Alcohol Education Unit
DEECD
John Gray – Mornington Peninsula Shire
Vivienne Brown – Office for Youth
Jon King – Office for Youth
Jackie Hetherington – Surf Coast Shire
Mark Gellie – Red Frogs
Rose Salvo – YSAS
Ian Waugh – Surf Coast Shire
Tim Hardiman – Victoria Police
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Julie McLean – Office of Emergency
Services – Water Safety
Greg Scott – Surf Lifesaving Victoria
Teresa Baker – Victoria Police
Leah Anderson – Victoria Police
Peter Wearne – YSAS
Thomas Roszkowski – DHS Victorian Drug
and Alcohol Prevention Council
Georgie Ferrari – Youth Affairs Council of
Victoria
Rosanna Bonoccurso – Victoria Police
Micaela Drieberg – Australian Drug
Foundation
Ella McPherson – Dept Planning and
Community Development –
Communications
John Dalton – Tourism Victoria
Frank McGuire - Publicis
Office for Youth (OFY) coordinated SWISC through their first Schoolies Period in 2008. OFY
also sent a representative to the National Schoolies Conference in Rottnest Island in June
2008. In 2009 it is Victoria’s turn to host the annual conference with OFY taking lead and
Lorne the host destination.
OFY have shown a commitment to improved coordination of the Schoolies Period. Adequate
resourcing remains a major issue for Lorne and Torquay and OFY have been assisting SWG
to identify funding opportunities.
15
NEW Partnerships
Red Cross SAM
In 2007 Red Cross Save-a-mate (SAM) joined SWG and trialled an intervention for the
Schoolies Period. SAM is a program run by young people for young people. It aims to
promote health and wellbeing through education on key youth issues, particularly those
related to alcohol and other drug use and mental health. Those participating in SAM build
important skills and knowledge to help them look after themselves and their peers.
SAM training is highly innovative and effective and is currently delivered to more than 10 000
young people annually. Approximately 150 youth events and festivals are also attended by
SAM volunteers where safe partying, peer support, health promotion and at times health
promotion is provided.
In 2008 Red Cross provided volunteers on the Foreshore in Lorne Friday 28th November –
Sunday 30th November 2-8pm.
headspace Barwon
headspace is a federally funded organisation that aims to improve mental health and wellbeing for young people aged 12-25 and their families. headspace offer a range of services
including doctors, counsellors, psychologists, psychiatrists, occupational therapists, youth
workers, education and employment specialists.
headspace Barwon provided youth workers in Lorne from 1-5pm Monday 24th November –
Friday 28th November.
Student Life
Student Life is the university ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ Australia. Student Life
are present on over 20 campuses throughout Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.
Students from various or no church backgrounds are involved in Student Life. Student Life is
committed to seeing an attractive and effective Christian presence on every university
campus in Australia and beyond.
Student Life recently celebrated 30 years of university ministry in Australia.
Student Life provided a Drop In Centre in Lorne for most nights, having a break for
weekends. The “Droppo” was a safe haven where School Leavers could go and hang out,
play cards, pool, have a non-alcoholic drink and talk to volunteers. Student Life volunteers
also provided BBQs and sports activities on the beach when opportunities arose.
16
As mentioned previously in this report Surf Coast Shire was successful in their application for
a $20 000 TAC Community Road Safety Grant. The TAC program aims to:
x
Encourage community involvement in local road safety programs that are consistent
with Victoria's Road Safety Strategy, arrive alive (www.arrivealive.vic.gov.au)
x
Provide opportunities for local community groups to develop and implement effective
road safety projects targeting specific local road safety issues.
The Schoolies Transport Program for Lorne and Torquay had the following objectives:
x
x
x
x
x
x
Reduce the risks of road accidents to a pedestrian or driver during the Schoolies
Period.
Reduce drink driving during the Schoolies Period by offering an alternative.
Educate young people about local services, support workers and harm minimisation
strategies.
Create a safer environment for young people and the community during Schoolies.
Gather information about school leavers to assist in the management of the high risk
period.
Identify young school leavers as opposed to "Toolies".
Unfortunately the funding was a one off and SWG will need to implement sustainability
measures to ensure that the same services are available for 2009.
17
4. Major Strategies for 2008
4.1
Red Frogs
The Red Frogs run a number of initiatives for volunteers and young people:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Chill Out Zone
A Chill Out Zone is set up in front of the Uniting Church in the main street in Lorne.
The Chill Out Zone is manned by volunteers from about 9pm – 2am each night Red
Frogs are working. The area is alcohol free and has some low intensity games such
as table tennis. Volunteers offer young people free food, water and hot drinks. The
Chill Out Zone is very popular, and acts as a safety and support area for young
people. It is a great way to interact with the School Leavers and also monitor
behaviours in case support is required.
A Chill Out Zone was trialled in Torquay in 2007. Unfortunately the location was not
suitable and an alternative, appropriate location has not yet been found.
Free breakfasts
School Leavers can register with Red Frogs for a free pancake breakfast. Red Frogs
take all the supplies and make the young people breakfast whilst engaging them and
offering support.
Shuttle Buses
Red Frog volunteers kindly drove one bus in Lorne and two in Torquay.
Accommodation Provider Support
Red Frogs will help accommodation providers with check ins, and also visit
establishments to see if they can be of general assistance. Volunteers actually stay
within the young people’s environment at some Accommodation Providers and this is
a great support for local businesses
Council welcome BBQs
Red Frogs attend these and help cook the BBQ and make young people feel
welcome. They will also arrange recreational activities during the BBQs.
Volunteer training
Red Frog volunteers are all trained and supported by the organisation. Volunteers
have clear, well defined boundaries and work very well with the other organisations.
General Support
Red Frogs are helpful, friendly and supportive. Volunteers are willing to help other
organisations, local residents and the community in general.
Recreational activities
Red Frogs ran some low-key sporting activities on the Foreshore.
18
4.2
Youth Worker Program
Funding received by Surf Coast Shire from OFY ($30 000) directly funds the YSAS Youth
Worker Program.
YSAS provided training, support and Youth Workers for the two week Schoolies Period in
both locations. The Youth Workers were employed from the hours of 8pm – 4am in Lorne
and 9pm -2am in Torquay. The YSAS Youth Worker Program aim to:
1.1
To provide support and advocacy to young people participating in the Schoolies
Period in Lorne and Torquay during the target period (Friday 21st Nov – Friday 5th
Dec 2008 inclusive).
To respond to the needs of young people at risk via identified referral pathways.
To promote harm reduction and infection control strategies amongst young people
attending the Schoolies Period.
To interface with community members and local businesses in order to promote
and foster positive relationships with School Leavers.
1.2
1.3
1.4
For a copy of the Service Agreement see Appendix 4.
4.3
Media and Communications Strategy
The Media and Communications Strategy was developed by Surf Coast Shire
Communications team in consultation with the Schoolies Working Group. The Schoolies
Period attracts a vast array of media including radio, television and newspapers. (See
Appendix 6 for Examples of Media and Correspondence).
In 2008 there was less interest from television networks; however radio and newspapers still
regularly printed Schoolies stories. Partnerships with the media continue to create difficulties
for SWG with Lorne and Torquay often mixed with Queensland stories, sensationalism and
inaccurate reporting. Newspapers continue to publish old, outdated photos, and/or
Queensland photos with Victorian stories.
It is difficult to develop positive working relationships with journalists who often change
positions frequently. SWG had a positive experience with a journalist from The Echo who
asked to attend a SWG meeting. The journalist was invited to attend and the outcomes were
returned with positive and accurate reporting. Another good outcome was the 16 page
Schoolies booklet in The Geelong Advertiser as part of the Just Think campaign.
The Communications Strategy aims to:
x
Improve shared information and communication among the general community, key
stakeholders and media partners, by:
x Providing information that is accurate.
x Providing clear messages.
19
x Encouraging consistency through media releases that projects a positive and
non-sensational view of the Schoolies period.
x Developing effective information channels amongst stakeholders.
x Providing an understanding of stakeholder’s roles in communicating to media.
x
Decrease negative media coverage and its effects on young people, the local
community and stakeholder organisations.
x
Manage any significant incidents more positively by:
x
Equipping Stakeholders with information and processes to deal with difficult
media situations
x
Highlighting harm minimisation strategies.
x
Enhance the good will between young people and the community through
positive stories and portrayals of the Schoolies Period.
For a data analysis in regards to Media see Section 5.2 of this report.
4.4
Young People’s Health Clinic
The Health Clinic in Lorne was operational again in 2008, having not been operational since
2005. The Health Clinic offered a free confidential service to help young people and youth
workers discuss issues with a registered nurse in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The
Clinic operated as a drop-in facility from 11am – 1pm Monday to Friday (week 1) and
Monday to Wednesday (week 2).
See Section 5.2 for data provided by the Lorne Community Hospital.
4.5
Police Resources
SWG is really lucky to have commitment from Police at local and regional level. Four
members of the Police force regularly attend SWG meetings including: Surf Coast Youth
Resource Officer, Surf Coast Inspector, and the Sergeants from both Lorne and Torquay
Police stations.
Both Police stations were open for a 24 hour period over the Schoolies Period. The above
mentioned Police officers also advocated for more Police resources. This year Police were
more viable and included a trial of the Police Hummer and Police on horseback. SWG and
local residents were quick to praise the Police in regards to the new initiatives, and also in
the way each officer conducted themselves in a friendly and approachable manner.
SWG provided feedback to the Police that it would be great to have more foot patrols along
the Foreshore area in Torquay. Police strategies for 2009 will consider feedback and
learning’s from SWG 2008.
20
4.6
Schoolies Down South Information
The Schoolies Down South (SDS) website has been a communication tool for SWG since
2006. It can be viewed at www.schooliesdownsouth.com.au. The website provides SWG
with opportunities to communicate directly to potential school leavers and their parents. The
website aims to educate school leavers about the communities they are visiting, and to
provide them with important safety information.
The very existence of the website creates a target for residents opposed to Schoolies in
general to claim that SWG promotes Schoolies. For SWG to run a Harm Minimisation
Program successfully it is imperative to communicate with young people and their families.
In 2009 SWG will investigate the possibility to register young people on-line. This will not
only save time during check-in for Accommodation Providers, but it will provide SWG with
important data and information to plan for the peak period prior to the young people arriving.
Early in 2009 the website will be updated to have a fresh new look.
In 2008 the SDS website had 55 999 hits, compared to 50 288 in 2007, an increase of 5 711.
In 2008 the busiest month for hits was November (12 633) followed by February (6 944).
This was also consistent with 2007, where the busiest month was also November (10 690),
followed by February (6 008). It must be noted that data for 2007 spanned from February
2007 through to February 2008, whereas 2008 data spanned for a calendar year January to
December 2008. The data highlights two three important things: SDS is regularly used; the
number of hits are increasing; and February and November are peak months.
Office for Youth also has a website www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au with information about
Schoolies.
4.7
Transport Program
The Transport Program is a very important part of the Harm Minimisation Program
implemented by SWG. This year the Schoolies Transport Program was funded by TAC
Community Road Safety Grants. This enabled SWG to provide a program that was
resourced properly, with enough buses provided for both Lorne and Torquay.
In 2008 3 shuttle buses were run in Lorne. One was funded by the Lorne Hotel who provided
a driver, fuel and payment for the hire of the bus. The second one was provided via the TAC
Community Road Safety Grant and driven by Red Frog volunteers. This bus was not driven
for the entire 2 week period. These two buses ran in opposite directions and catered for
most of the Accommodation Providers who were fairly close to the main street.
The third bus was partly funded by TAC Community Road Safety Grant and partly privately
funded by Lorne Bush Cottages. This bus ran from Lorne Bush Cottages and Banksia to and
from the main street. This bus was able to provide transport for young people who were
staying a little further out of town.
21
In 2008 SWG were faced with a new challenge which was due to the changes to the
Graduated Licensing System. Under the new system P-plate drivers in their first year of
driving are not permitted to carry more than one passenger aged 16-21 years. So for the
Schoolies Period it potentially meant more cars and less young people acting as designated
drivers as they would have to make 4 trips back and forth to return a car load to their
accommodation.
Due to the Graduated Licensing System there is a greater need for shuttle buses. In 2008
many School Leavers informed us that many young people had gotten their licenses early to
avoid the affects of the changes. Therefore SWG can assume that the full affect of the
changes to the system will come into play for the 2009 Schoolies Period.
4.8
Recommended Accommodation Code of Practice and Fact Sheet
The code of practice was developed in conjunction with Consumer Affairs Victoria,
Accommodation Providers, Surf Coast Tourism, tourism bodies, and other Schoolies
stakeholders. The Code is available on www.schooliesdownsouth.com.au and at Visitor
Information Centres. Both the Recommended Code of Practice and Young People’s Fact
Sheet can be found in the Appendices of this report, see Appendix 9.
The Accommodation Code of Practice was developed in response to the theme of working
more closely and positively with Accommodation Providers to increase information,
communication and consistency for young people, and to allow Accommodation Providers to
feed concerns, ideas and issues back into the SWG. The Code of Practice has proven a
useful tool in reminding young people of their rights and responsibilities, and keeping
Accommodation Providers informed about discriminative practices.
Accommodation Providers can voluntarily sign up to follow the Code of Practice which in
2009 has about 23 participants, 3 down from the prior year. The reasons of the reduction
were related to operational reasons, such as no longer operational or not operating at that
time of year.
The second part of the initiative is the Schoolies Down South Fact Sheet for young people,
which outlines young people’s rights and responsibilities, and provides a list of
Accommodation Providers who endorsed the Code of Practice. It is hoped that in future
years more Accommodation Providers will endorse the Code, and that the process of
registration and wristbands can be linked to the process of signing the Code.
4.9
Water Program
Free water is handed out to School Leavers by the Hotels, Red Frogs, YSAS Youth Workers,
Red Cross and headspace Barwon. In 2008 water was partly funded by the Munday Group
and partly via the TAC Community Road Safety Grant.
In 2008 more water was used than the previous year with the Munday Group having to order
more water. This is an interesting point as in 2007 the weather was quite warm in
comparison to 2008 where it was quite cool.
22
Water is an important part of the Harm Minimisation Program, particularly as an engagement
tool. Water was handed out at the following times: on the shuttle buses (these are alcohol
and glass free); within the Hotels; outside the Hotels, particularly during closure; at the
welcome BBQs; at the Chill Out Zone; and randomly by volunteers and Youth Workers.
With the Hotels introduction of ID scanners, lines began to form outside the establishments.
This allowed valuable engagement time for Youth Workers and volunteers. Free water is an
important part of SWG’s program. It ensures that young people are staying hydrated,
particularly if the weather is warm, it provides an alternative to alcohol and a chance to slow
down, but most importantly it allows workers a change to talk to young people. An example
is a young person visiting the headspace Barwon marquee to ask for water, where youth
workers can also suggest sun screen etc.
4.10
Glass Free
In 2005 a Glass Free initiative was trialled for New Years Eve amongst growing concern and
angst of the community in relation to broken glass. The initiative was viewed as successful
and SWG extended the program to include the 2006 Schoolies Period.
The Glass Free campaign included the distribution of large visible “Glass Free” signs, posters
and handouts to bottle shops, licensed venues and Accommodation Providers across the
Surf Coast. In addition to signage, relationships were developed with licensees and the
Liquor Accords in order to encourage licensees to promote the sale of cans or plastic
containers over the sale of glass, thus encouraging young people to purchase liquor in these
alternative types of containers.
In 2007 the Glass Free Campaign was still in place. In addition to these practises, some
Accommodation Providers also banned glass, confiscating bottles from School Leavers,
returning the glass products upon check out. Other establishments weren’t so proactive,
continuing to sell glass, and also to put glass products on sale.
Broken glass is a health risk through cuts and abrasions; a risk for injury; creates physical
damage during violence; is very difficult to pick up; and is unwanted by locals and volunteers
who continue to collect the broken glass each morning. In 2008 change had to happen and it
did.
Surf Coast Shire introduced new Local Laws which are summarised as follows:
You cannot smoke or take a glass container (opened or unopened) onto the sand areas of
the beach at any time.
You cannot take any glass container (opened or unopened) onto the Foreshore grass
reserve adjacent sand areas of beaches in the period November 15 to January 31 between
the hours of 9pm and 6am.
Penalties $100 on the spot.
23
In 2008 Local Laws Officers were not employed for the first weekend of the Schoolies Period.
Surf Coast Shire continues to receive feedback from the community about the lack of
presence of Local Law Officers. Following is a list of fines issued during the Schoolies
Period in Lorne and Torquay. Please note that it was assumed that the young people were
School Leavers and that this cannot be guaranteed.
Lorne
Fines
Sleeping in a vehicle Contrary to Local
Law
Possess/Consume Liquor in a Public
Place
Offensive
behaviour
Glass in a glass free
area
Total fines issued 21 Nov to 6 Dec
Number
13
Cost
$125
38
$125
5
$250
3
$100
59
Torquay
Fines
Sleeping in a vehicle Contrary to Local
Law
Possess/Consume Liquor in a Public
Place
Offensive
behaviour
Glass in a glass free
area
Total fines issued from 21 Nov to 6 Dec
Number
13
Cost
$125
30
$125
2
$250
4
$100
49
The other change to the 2008 program in Lorne was the employment of two people who
wandered the Foreshore and outer areas collecting glass by hand between the hours of
10pm and 4am. This initiative made possible by the TAC Community Road Safety Grant (not
directly, but freeing up other monies) meant that glass was collected as it was dropped, and
therefore it was less likely to be found broken the following day.
The issue of glass is still a major concern and needs to be considered at a higher level.
SWG has continually raised the issue of glass at SWISC and the issue will be further
addressed in 2009.
24
4.11
In 2008 SWG via Surf Coast Shire Youth Development applied for a TAC Community Road
Safety Grant. The state-wide grant aims to:
x
x
Encourage community involvement in local road safety programs that are consistent
with Victoria’s Road Safety Strategy, arrive alive (www.arrivealive.vic.gov.au)
Provide opportunities for local community groups to develop and implement effective
road safety projects targeting specific local road safety issues.
The one off funding of $20 000 called Schoolies Transport Program contributed to the SWG
harm minimisation program by funding the following:
x
x
x
x
x
x
Bus hire and Petrol
Info sheets for young people (see Appendix 7)
Signage, including core flute and VMS with relevant safety messages
Wristbands for registration
Marquee hire
Water
The extra funding enabled some flexibility in the Surf Coast Shire contribution to the Harm
Minimisation Program. In 2007 the most high-risk and problematic area to manage was the
Foreshore in Lorne. SCS and GORCC agreed to partner and contributed half of the costs
towards security and manual rubbish collection on the Foreshore and surrounding areas.
These two strategies were viewed as highly successful. SWG as a whole was very pleased
with the management, strategies and communications regarding the Foreshore in 2008.
Therefore not only was the TAC Community Road Safety Grant valuable in meeting its aims,
it also provides additional benefits to the community and young people.
25
4.12
Registration & Wristbands
In 2008 registration and wristbands of School Leavers was trialled. Accommodation
Providers were able to register the number of expected guests with SCS Youth
Development. Each Accommodation Provider was allocated a different colour wristband
(see Appendix 5), to assist with management purposes. School Leavers were asked to fill
out a registration form on check in and out; this form also had valuable local information
attached for them to read.
If School Leavers were staying privately or with an Accommodation Provider who had not
registered with the program, they could register under the private rental or miscellaneous
category with the Visitor Information Centres or with the Red Frogs.
The idea of registration and wristbands was viewed positively by School Leavers and
Accommodation Providers. The process will be under review for 2009. The possibility of
School Leavers registering via the Schoolies Down South Website could be considered. At
this stage the wristbands are a helpful management and planning tool, however there is not
much benefit to the young people themselves. SWG is not going to refuse a School Leaver
water or a shuttle bus because they don’t have a wristband. Therefore SWG may have to
consider other merchandise i.e. a t-shirt, which would enable SWG to charge a small fee for
registration.
For a breakdown of the data provided by the registration forms see Appendix 10.
4.13
The Munday Group
The Munday Group are a valued partner of SWG and major contributors. Representatives
of the Munday Group, the Lorne Hotel and Torquay Hotel regularly attend SWG meetings are
active contributors with proactive strategies.
The Munday Group received accolades from the police and liquor licensing for their
strategies during the Schoolies Period. These included:
x Serving drinks in plastic cups rather than glass
x Support of the Glass Free Campaigns
x No jugs (in Lorne)
x One drink per customer past a certain time
x Free water
x A chill out zone (in Torquay)
x Responsible Service Officers (RSA) to monitor drinking behaviours
Unfortunately the Media chose to run a negative story in reference to the Lorne Hotel (see
Appendix 6) “Schoolies ‘rip-off’”. This was really disappointing considering the strategies that
the Munday Group had in place, and the support they provide to SWG. On the other hand if
the Hotels were to sell cheap drinks etc, they would be tarnished - let alone the negative
impacts and management issues to SWG.
26
5. Outcomes and Evaluation
5.1
Evaluation Measures
Collecting data during the Schoolies Period is an objective that SWG aims to continue to
improve each year. In 2008 the following measures were utilised:
x
x
x
x
x
x
The data and information provided by Police, the Lorne Hospital, YSAS, Hotels and
Red Frogs (see Section 5.2 of this report).
Debriefing sessions for key stakeholders and the community (se Appendix 11 &12).
Questionnaires given to young people during the Schoolies Period (for compilation
see Appendix 10).
Registration Forms completed at check-in by Accommodation Providers or via Visitor
Information Centres.
Examination of the media stories that appeared regarding the Schoolies Period. The
SWG Coordinator collated and distributed relevant material via the internet to SWG.
For examples of media exerts see Appendix 6.
Through feedback to various stakeholders from young people, both verbal and written.
The outcomes of the above information will enable the SWG to review the Schoolies Down
South Program and plan appropriately, more effectively and more successfully for 2009.
27
5.2
Statistics for 2008
Lorne Community Hospital
Schoolies 2008 - Primary Care Presentations
Facility
Health Issue
Foreign body
Fall/sprain/strain
Laceration
Assault
MVA
Drink spiking
Gastrointestinal
Alcohol Intoxication
+/- other drugs
Urgent
Care
14
15
6
10
1
1
9
20
Medical
Centre
Community
health nurse
Pharmacy
1
1
10
2
3
4
1
5
5
4
12
5
2
Head/Face Injury
1
Allergic Reaction
Wound/dressing
4
1
Anxiety
sunburn
2
Rash/eczema
15
1
ENT & colds/flu
2
Sexual and
4
reproductive health
Eye
1
Other
7
3
Asthma
Glass Injuries
4
2
1
TOTAL ATTENDEES
105
49
12
NB: - Young people may present with more than one health issue
1
10
15
24
20
8
8
4
93
Comments re Schoolies 2008 Primary Care Presentations
x
x
x
x
x
x
Data was collected during the two weeks of schoolies from 22/11/08 to 8/12/2008
Total presentations during schoolies was 259, compared with 133 last year
Urgent care presentations doubled from 52 to 103 b/w 2007 and 2008
Medical Centre statistics from 2007 may be incomplete with only 9 presentations
recorded in 2007 compared to 49 in 2008. Anecdotally, the medical centre was
thought to be about as busy as last year.
The pharmacy had 85 presentations this year compared with 71 in 2007
More than twice as many young people presented with alcohol/other drug issues, (10
in 2007 compared with 24 in 2008)
28
x
Less young people were seen for sexual and reproductive health issues (34 in 2007
compared with 24 in 2008)
x
Urgent care generally felt to be busier, with more intense issues i.e.
- More extreme alcohol intoxication to point of being unrousable and
unresponsive to painful stimuli.
- Several presentations of extremely anxious or aggressive young people (??
Related to other drug use)
The majority of assaults occurred as a result of one person wielding an iron bar in one
incident. Anecdotally there were less glass injuries than last year but as these were not
separated out last year it is not possible to make a direct comparison of the effect of the no
glass policy put in place for this year.
The community health nurse was available in the pharmacy for two hours on each of 8 days
during schoolies. The community health nurse referred 4 young people for follow up for
sexual and reproductive health to specialised young people’s health services, and 2 young
people to the medical centre for other reasons.
Pharmacy staff and young people were appreciative of the services offered by the nurse
which included assessment, treatment, general counselling and referral.
There were positive comments from all areas on the high level of cooperation and
coordination of health services during schoolies, also including the young peoples outreach
services provided by YSAS and Red Frogs.
CFA – COASTAL GROUP OF FIRE BRIGADES
x There was little impact of Schoolies on CFA Torquay. While there were a number of
incidents involving fire, they were minor and Police/Security dealt with some.
x Only really two instances where the brigade was called during the period. One was 3 times
in one evening and they were pretty close together time-wise, one individual (group
probably) involved fire on the foreshore/beach and the other a house fire as the result of a
bin having been lit that may or may not be attributable to Schoolies.
x Overall the impact for CFA was minor for this year.
29
YSAS
YSAS provided Youth Workers to provide support and advocacy to young people
participating in the Schoolies Period from Saturday 22nd November – Sunday 6th December
2008 in Lorne and Torquay. YSAS provided four Youth Workers for Lorne from
approximately 8pm – 4am and two Youth Workers in Torquay from approximately 9pm to
2am. Actual shifts were flexible depending on the environment and complexities facing the
Youth Workers on a daily basis.
Surf Coast Shire Youth Development receive a contribution from Office for Youth of $30 000
towards the Schoolies Down South Harm Minimisation Program. These funds are then
directly transferred to YSAS to run the Youth Worker Program. A Funding and Service
Agreement is created (see Appendix 4).
For the past few years YSAS have been recording the number of contacts they have had
with young people during their contracted time. “Contacts” refers to the actual number of
engagements between young people and Youth Workers. This is not a visual sighting of
young people but an actual discussion and passing of information materials.
Lorne
Table 1 – Estimated Total Contacts Lorne from 2004-2008
Number of Contacts
Week One
2008
2007 (day/evening)
2006
2005
2004
2096
4625
Week Two
2294
2855
three weeks
three weeks
Total
4390
7480
4442
2600
unknown
The table indicates that youth workers made contact with approximately 4390 young people
over a 15 night period. In 2007, youth workers made a total number of 7480 contacts with
young people. The significant difference in numbers of contacts is attributable to the fact that
in 2007, youth workers worked split shifts and had contact with young people on the
foreshore or at their accommodation, each afternoon. Youth workers provided support to
young people in 2005 and 2006 over a three-week period the contacts reflect the increase in
numbers of Schoolies to Lorne over a four-year period.
What worked well?

Mobile Phone Numbers – In 2008, young people were more likely to contact youth
workers directly on their mobile phone numbers. The majority of first aid assistance
provided at both sites resulted from requests for assistance by young people via mobile
phone
Consistency of youth support workers – one team leader employed at site for entire
period.
30

Re-distribution of youth worker hours – extended evening hours
Relationships and communication processes with all major stakeholders, particularly
police, hospital, foreshore and volunteer groups
Distribution of water, particularly at hotel closure
RSA Officers at Lorne Hotel
Hotel harm reduction/management strategies
Weekly stakeholder meetings
Overnight rubbish and glass collection in Lorne
Overnight security on foreshore in Lorne
Increased police presence
Medical Services and Health Clinic – involvement of Lorne Community Health Nurse in
planning processes
Safety Messages – young people looking after their friends, contacting youth workers for
help
Chill Out Zone
Drop In Centre
What did not work well?

Lack of Red Frog programs during first week: “Chill Out” Zone, Shuttle Bus
Torquay
Table 2 – Estimated Total Contacts Torquay from 2005-2008
Number of Contacts
Week One
2008
2007
2006
2005
640
185
Week Two
1080
870
three weeks
three weeks
Total
1720
1055
1570
2600
The table indicates that youth workers made contact with approximately 1720 young people
over a 15 night period, a significant increase from 2007 when youth workers made a total
number of 1055 contacts with young people over split shifts. This is indicative of the
increasing popularity of Torquay as a Schoolies destination. Youth workers provided support
to young people in 2005 and 2006 over a three-week period, the contacts reflect the increase
in numbers of Schoolies to Torquay since this time.
What worked well?

Mobile Phone Numbers – In 2008, young people were more likely to contact youth
workers directly on their mobile phone numbers. The majority of first aid assistance
provided at both sites resulted from requests for assistance by young people via mobile
phone
Consistency of youth support workers – one team leader employed at each site for entire
period.
Distribution of water, particularly at hotel closure
31

RSA Officer at Torquay Hotel and Chill Out area at hotel
Hotel harm reduction/management strategies
Weekly stakeholder meetings
Safety Messages – young people looking after their friends, contacting youth workers for
help
What did not work well?

Lack of Red Frog presence in first week = lack of shuttle buses, lack of eyes and ears
Police presence not as obvious or pro-active as at Lorne
Only two youth workers in Torquay – a second pair is definitely required to ensure
monitoring and patrolling of such a large area
Broken glass – need to consider similar strategy as that employed in Lorne
Beach Fires – need to consider employing overnight security staff on foreshore as in
Lorne
Some Recommendations for 2009:
The Youth Worker Program has not held its yearly debrief as yet however the following are
some recommendations:

Provide more education to parents about the need for a Glass Free Schoolies. It is our
observation that in a great number of cases, parents are involved in the purchase of
alcohol for their children.

All stakeholders should provide a service during Schoolies for the entire designated
period.

The Munday Group should continue its harm reduction strategies; our observation is that
these were very successful in reducing alcohol intake amongst young people.

Increase police presence and interaction in Torquay.
Lorne.

Consider employing foreshore security and rubbish collectors in Torquay as was done in
Lorne this year. Another successful preventative strategy.

Review youth worker program in Torquay – how can we best resource it?

Lobby the federal and state governments to take greater responsibility in managing this
phenomenon.
32
This worked extremely well in
LORNE POLICE
Sergeant Bill Matthews supplied the following data relating to the 2008 Schoolies Period:
Report
Noisy Parties Attended
Crime Offences reported to Police
Offenders Processed for various Offences
Police Penalty Notices Issued
Shire Penalty Notices Issued
Total # of reports:
Number
43
54
57
42
51
247
Lorne Police were extremely happy with the way the Schoolies Period went for 2008. Despite
some negative press regarding a couple of nights (Friday 28th Nov 2008 and Friday 5th Dec
2008), the police felt that the School Leavers were very well behaved over the period. A
number of factors influenced this. Most noticeable was the great planning by the Schoolies
Working Group members, which co-ordinated a number of agencies to make a safe
environment for both School Leavers and the general public. This was point was well and
truely emphasised at the Schoolies working Group and Community Debrief.
From a policing point of view, the police were extremely happy with the way our members
policed the area. Many of the police members had been in Lorne for the Schoolies Period
before, which helped greatly in how we go about policing this event. Clearly a greater
increase in police numbers bought about a greater awareness of police to the School
Leavers during the operation. A number of high profile operations were conducted during
this period, most notably of a weekend when there were many Toolies in town. This included
roadblocks, random breath testing, police horses and of course, the Hummer. Lorne police
were particularly happy with the great co-operation with the Youth Workers & Red Frogs. The
wrist band experiment and the glass free zone were other important factors in this event
which greatly assisted police.
Overall, Lorne police felt that everyone should be proud of a job well done.
33
TORQUAY POLICE
Sergeant Brian McKiterick reported on behalf of the Torquay Police:
School leavers visited from many parts of Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and other parts
of the state including:
-
Williamstown
Research
Mooroolbark
Mirboo
Bendigo
Horsham
Korumburra
Maffra
Kyabram
Wodonga
Whittlesea
The Schoolies 2008 period has been considered to be much quieter than in 2007. Offences
both Traffic and Crime were drastically reduced from 2007 to 2008 in all areas as follows.
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Crime offenders
Crime Offences
Traffic offenders
Traffic Offences
Licensing & underage licensing offences Traffic penalty notices
Penalty Notices
Council Penalty Notices Behaviour
Council Penalty Notices Liquor
22%
68%
61%
26%
83%
33%
60%
77%
22%
Generally the visitors for schoolies 2008 were well behaved despite numbers being up on
previous years. This was possibly due to Torquay Police designating a specific crew which
was schoolies focussed. We identified properties which were occupied by Schoolies Leavers
and visited each and outlined the expectations of the community and police to the occupants.
Police also maintained high visibility both inside and outside licensed venues in the Torquay
area.
Areas of concern in 2008 were fire lighting on the beaches, large congregations of people at
Cosy Corner, glass on beaches and alcohol consumption in public spaces.
34
Below is a summary of the offences during the Schoolies Period for 2008:
Torquay Police
Station
22Nov
23Nov
24Nov
25Nov
26Nov
27Nov
28Nov
29Nov
30Nov
1Dec
2Dec
3Dec
4Dec
5Dec
6Dec
Total
Offenders
Crime
3
1
3
7
Drugs
0
Traffic
1
Other
2
Total
2
2
5
3
0
0
0
6
1
0
2
0
8
2
2
15
4
2
3
16
4
5
38
15
0
0
Crime Offences
Crime offences
3
3
Drug offences
0
Drug cautions
0
Crime other
11
Drunks
1
Other street
offences
Licensing
offences
Underage
Licensing
offences
Total
11
1
2
5
3
1
7
1
1
1
0
3
1
0
0
6
0
0
0
0
13
1
0
0
3
0
26
1
2
6
Traffic Offences
Drink Driving
offences
Bicycle
offences
Unroadworthy
notices
Other Traffic
Briefs
Other Traffic
Penalty Notices
1
1
1
2
2
0
1
1
9
1
1
6
17
EPA Notices
0
PBT's
conducted
RBT's
conducted
Hoons - Cars
seized
Total
87
2
2
35
10
1
1
2
6
40
42
224
1
38
38
81
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
90
35
2
38
0
23
2
7
86
82
331
Miscellaneous
IRs submitted
0
Vehicles
checked
Persons
checked
Licensed
Premises visited
Sherriff warrants
/ Warrants
executed
Field Contacts
submitted
Total
41
21
1
15
53
12
2
1
4
65
9
1
2
10
1
35
4
8
8
6
7
6
204
44
28
32
38
9
48
14
314
2
5
5
8
1
29
1
0
0
0
16
98
33
4
9
76
3
79
34
45
51
15
63
21
547
Process Method
Arrests
2
Intent to
Summons
1
Penalty Notices
Total
0
3
1
3
1
5
0
0
7
4
3
3
1
1
6
12
4
42
16
5
57
1
3
2
1
0
2
7
10
5
10
5
0
9
Council Penalty Notices
Behaviour
Penalty Notices
Liquor Penalty
Notices
Total
1
2
2
0
0
0
0
5
4
5
4
36
1
1
0
0
1
2
2
6
6
28
1
3
2
6
7
31
RED FROGS – LORNE
2008 Schoolies from a Red Frogs perspective was one of our best years to date. We were
present from the nights Thursday 27th of November to Friday 5th of December inclusive, a
total of 9 nights with our program operating. Our observations from 2008 schoolies is that
overall the numbers of School Leavers was down from previous years but a couple of
reasons could of contributed towards this with the weather being quite cold and wet. The
police presence in 2008 was excellent and heaps better than 2007. The greatest challenge
was trying to deal with the whole Schoolies v Toolies v locals mentality. We noticed a
considerable change in atmosphere on Friday/Saturday nights with outside groups coming
down. Overall School Leavers were really great and appreciative, and showed a lot of
gratitude towards our support and services that we provided them during their stay in Lorne.
We would also like to thank the Surf Coast Shire for allowing us to have a big shipping crate
during our time there on the street near our Chill-out Zone. This just made things so much
easier for storage and quicker setup for our Chill-out Zone.
It would be good to consider having some sort of entertainment down on the Foreshore at
night or something in 2009. Also maybe consider during the day having some sporting
matches, i.e. cricket or football or something with School Leavers and make it into a really
good day with School Leavers mixing it with Red Frogs/YSAS/Accommodation
Providers/Police etc to really build up the relationship between everyone. The purpose of
these would be to keep the School Leavers active and therefore trying to minimise the
amount of School Leavers getting bored during their time down in Lorne.
We would also support any message or method that we can get to the Lorne community that
communicates that we are not here to promote Schoolies but rather are here to manage the
School Period and make it into the safest time down there for everyone concerned. School
Leavers are going to come down regardless, therefore its best that we be proactive in trying
to achieve positive outcomes, rather than the community members just saying "ban"
Schoolies. If the community can understand that it would make everyone's job so much
easier.
STATS & INFO
Bus
- The Red Frogs in Lorne operated the north bus route in Lorne with the Lorne Hotel
operating the South bus route. With our Bus service we were taking on average per night
185 School Leaver passengers within the North Zone of the Schoolies Bus route. But
from any given night could range up to 240 School Leaver passengers between 9:00pm 2:30am with a maximum of having 10 passengers per run at a time.
Red Frog Volunteers
- 75 volunteers at Lorne over 10 nights. We had approximately on average 50-55
volunteers every night.
- per day each worker would work approx. 6-7 hours + any brekkies that they would do
outside of those hours during the day.
- Our aim with many of our workers is to be in as many areas in Lorne as possible covering
both Caravan Parks, Mantra Accommodation, Foreshore, Chill-out Zone on the street and
other teams of workers in various other Accommodation Providers also to be a support
and quick contact point for the School Leavers and to support Accommodation Providers.
We believe we were really successful at achieving this outcome.
37
1300 Number
- With our 1300 number in Lorne we had 151 calls during our time in Lorne.
- 8 referral calls, 112 visitation calls & 31 Admin calls (see table at the end of this report).
- Compared to other locations we were quite down but I believe this was because of the
presence of our workers being in as many areas as possible, therefore School Leavers didn't
have to make the 1300 call because our workers were in the vicinity of any School Leavers
needing any help or just wanting to hang out. For the other locations in Victoria that Red
Frogs are in most of those calls were dominated by School Leavers wanting the bus to pick
them up because in Torquay, Philip Island and Rye they were so spread out.
Chill-out Zone
- Approximately and on average 90 hot drinks served each night serving approx 900
School Leavers over 10 nights (this does not include School Leavers who came into our
Chill-out Zone who got water to re-hydrate rather than get a hot drink).
- Went through approx 1000 cups of water out of our water dispenser in our Chill-out Zone
over 10 nights (doesn't include School Leavers re-filling using same cup).
- Went through 147 bottles of water as well over 10 nights.
- The Chill-out Zone serves as a hydration point for School Leavers and a safe zone and
central point to come where its Alcohol and Drug free. We hand out free hot drinks, free
water, free donated bakery goods, have singstar on the playstation for them to use (which
they love), music playing, table tennis and just serves as a place where they can chill-out
in a friendly and non-threatening environment with our Red Frog workers.
- It also serves as a place where other services can link up and communicate and touch
base, i.e. YSAS Youth workers (Youth Substance Abuse Services), Police, Security etc.
Although we encourage other services and let them know they're most welcome, we
would ask that they just be mindful if there are too many at one time, i.e. YSAS, Security
etc, it really changes the atmosphere and as a result often the School Leavers will just all
leave then.
Total amount of Pancake brekkies done;
- 61 brekkies over 8 days serving a minimum of 500 School Leavers.
- 4 mass brekkies served at caravan parks serving in total approx. 800 schoolies over 4
brekkies (200 schoolies served approx. at each).
BBQs
- Mass BBQs served. (2 x BBQs served approx 80-100 schoolies). (4 x BBQs served
approx 150 School Leavers).
- In total approx 800 School Leavers served at BBQs in duration at Lorne.
Thank-you.
38
Vic - Report Breakdown by Call Classification
for the period between 2008-10-16 and 2008-12-12
Zone
Referral Calls
Visitation Calls
Mediation Calls
Admin Calls
Total Calls
Vic-Lorne
8
112
0
31
151
Vic-Phillip
Island
2
230
0
55
287
Vic-Rye
0
275
1
50
326
Vic-Torquay
7
187
0
142
336
Vic - Report Breakdown by Call Type
Personal Concerns
Physical
Concerns
Sexual Concerns
Assistance
Request
Schoolies
Request
Team Regular
Duties
Requested by
Hotel
Requested by
Other
Requested
bySchoolie
OtherAgency
Enquiry
Schoolie Enquiry
Worker Enquiry
Total Calls
for the period between 2008-10-16 and 2008-12-12
Vic-Lorne
3
5
0
31
81
0
0
0
0
8
23
0
151
Vic-Phillip
Island
0
2
0
174
56
0
0
0
0
5
48
2
287
Vic-Rye
0
0
0
239
36
0
0
0
1
11
38
1
326
VicTorquay
3
4
0
152
35
0
0
0
0
24
118
0
336
Zone
39
RED FROGS - TORQUAY
Following are some discussion points / observations from the Red Frogs on reflection of the
2008 Schoolies Period:
x 2008 was a successful year for Red Frogs.
x We engaged with more schoolies than previous years as we had twice as many
workers as 2007. The volunteers were right for the role and were able to build rapport
with School Leavers quickly and easily and were often invited to private houses and
parties.
x In 2008, we were very successful in identifying a lot more private houses rented by
Schoolies Leavers. Early contact was made with some of the private accommodation
owners and assisted them with checking in procedures including administration
assistance with the Wristband Program.
x We cooked twice as many Pancake Breakfasts (and suppers for the first time) but
scaled back our BBQs which worked well. We found that School Leavers were easier
to engage with at breakfast times when they are hungry and ready to eat something
rather than in the evening where they are more concerned about drinking. This was
also better for resourcing.
x The Wristband Program was quite a success considering that it was a first for
Torquay. Below are some suggestions to improve the program:
- Simplify the form and only collect the important details that we need for future contact,
such as their email address;
- Many Accommodation Providers, (mainly the large ones) were telling me that School
Leavers thought there was too much information to fill out, and also too much personal
information on the form. The Accommodation Providers also said that they felt
uncomfortable in asking School Leavers to fill out the forms and were just giving the
wristbands out. Red Frogs expressed concerns to the Accommodation Providers
about those practices. Accommodation Providers need to get on board also
somehow.
- This leads on to the feedback form. It is very hard to get School Leavers to fill out one
on departure and almost impossible to achieve with private houses unless we can
entice them.
o Suggestion: email them a feedback form which has all the other information
that is on the original form and definitely include an expiry date, or have an online system where they can access the form with a password and/or their
D.O.B. and we can entice them to fill out the forms correctly with a prize (digital
camera or something similar) or if we want to bring business back to the coast,
we can give them a free stay at Mantra for instance, or at the Cumberland for
example.
- There also has to be some incentive to register and wear the wristband for the entire
time because School Leavers were starting to cut them off by the end of the week as
they weren’t getting anything for wearing it. So maybe if businesses got on board and
gave School Leavers discounts such as 10% off fish & chips on presentation of their
wrist band?
x Our Red Frogs 1300# Hotline calls also increased with the number of calls for the
busses, visitations and particularly for pancake breakfasts increased. Red Frogs also
40
x
x
x
x
received an increase of calls for walk homes from the hotel, but unfortunately this was
due to the large brawl that broke out on one of the nights.
The second bus was priceless! It was definitely needed. Even a third bus would be
useful on the busy nights. Red Frogs strongly suggest that we do not put a Schoolies
Down South Sticker on the Torquay Hotel Bus, because this caused so many issues
in 2008, especially with the locals. Red Frogs suggest that locals need to have a bus
to specifically service their needs.
Red Frogs have a major concern about the locals and the lack of support they are
receiving. Red Frogs can empathise with their frustration with School Leavers
because they are left out during the week. They have to pay a cover for entry to the
hotel and not really getting anything back for it. We can empathise with their feeling of
being invaded by School Leavers who receive all this support and none for them who
are there all year round. We also see a significant problem with this because if left
untreated, the same locals who are there year after year will become more and more
frustrated and negative towards School Leavers as each year goes on. It would be
good to explore this further with SWG.
The weather in 2008 was certainly a huge factor. The cold and wet conditions
definitely got School Leavers and crowds off the streets and back at home a lot
quicker, especially after the hotel closed. We noticed that the Foreshore was
extremely quiet in 2008 compared to recent years. This also helped with the unruly
behaviour and property damage which was at a minimum. It also helped with
identifying private School Leavers’’ houses because they were home more often as
they were staying out of the weather.
Schoolies Period dates really need to be sorted out. School Leavers were expecting
services a lot earlier than they were provided in 2008. This was because of the dates
that were advertised on the website and other information material. We have to get
this right. Red Frogs and other agencies lost a lot of credibility and favour because of
this. We had some very disgruntled School Leavers in Week 1 who expected to have
services provided that weren’t there. SWG will have to discuss this before this year’s
advertising goes out.
41
COMMUNICATIONS – SURF COAST SHIRE
The Communications team at Surf Coast Shire complied a summary of media through to 17th
December 2008. This is the first time a report such as this was complied therefore no
accurate comparisons can be made. There was consensus that media coverage was
generally more positive than 2007. (See appendix 6 for examples of media coverage).
Total # articles, spread and pie charts
Totals
Total number of stories recorded: 38
Total positive stories: 9
Total negative stories: 13
Total warning stories: 9
Total other stories: 7
Paper Spread
Geelong
Advertiser
Herald Sun
Surf Coast Times
The Echo
Geelong/Torquay
Jan Juc
Independent
The Age
Lorne
Independent
Colac Herald
Positive
4
Negative
4
Warning
3
Other
4
Total
15
2
1
-
6
2
-
2
1
1
1
1
1
8
2
4
2
1
1
2
-
-
2
2
1
-
-
-
1
42
Pie Charts
Pre-schoolies media spread
Positive (5)
Negative (2)
Warning (7)
Other (2)
During schoolies media spread
Positive (3)
Negative (8)
Warning (2)
Other (4)
Post schoolies media spread
Positive (0)
Negative (3)
Warning (0)
Other (1)
43
MUNDAY GROUP – LORNE HOTEL
LORNE HOTEL SUMMARY
SCHOOLIES 08’
The Lorne Hotel started the Schoolies with a clear set of objectives for the 08’ period.
These objectives were achieved and are listed below
1. All hotel guests will be scanned on arrival prior to check-in
2. No 17 yr olds staying at the hotel, strict policy did not accept underage booking even if
one of the group was underage
3. ID scanner for bottle shop until used for the door in the evening
4. RSA officers x2 to work nightly from 9pm
5. RSA no shots, one drink per person after midnight, no jager bombs, no jugs
6. Lock-out starting at midnight, no new patrons and stamped patrons only to enter
7. Liaise with YSAS/police before close… ½ hr
8. New exit strategy, exit from the bar into bay street and avoid the busy and attention
seeking Mt Joy Pde
9. Date of birth on every till
The Lorne Hotel was able to successfully manage on average 250 Schoolies per night
without a single serious incident, we ejected on average 3 – 4 schoolies for intoxication per
night (RSA officer), and the degree of intoxication was minimal for these ejections. Security
refused entry to an average 15 schoolies per night on grounds of either intoxication of false
ID, fake ID was picked up by the ID scanner in most cases
MUNDAY GROUP – TORQUAY HOTEL
TORQUAY HOTEL SUMMARY
SCHOOLIES 08’
CROWD NO’S – ranged from 250-300 people per night, more people over weekend.
Estimated that numbers entering hotel were 25-50% up on previous year.
INCIDENTS – No real trouble over period apart from a few scuffles. A number of person’s
were refused entry to hotel due to intoxication.
44
DRINKING ON STREET – It was very evident many School Leavers were unaware that this
was an offence as it was quite prevalent with Schoolies drinking whilst walking to Hotel etc.
ID SCANNER – very successful in deterring underage patrons. Making school leavers lineup to be scanned also effective in identifying intoxicated persons.
RSA MONITOR - the use of a senior hotel employee purely to monitor responsible drinking
practice was an outstanding success. This person was very well received by School Leavers.
This person interacted with crowd and identified anyone who showed signs of intoxication.
That person was then dealt with on an individual basis. Anyone who needed to be removed
was then safely taken home with someone they knew by hotel transport.
YOUTH WORKERS – did an outstanding job particularly during 1st week when badly underresourced.
WATER – very effective tool in curtailing alcohol consumption and couldn’t keep up with
demand.
POLICE – much greater presence at night this year.
GORCC
Schoolies 2008 – Summary Report: Great Ocean Road Coast Committee
Accommodation: During the schoolies fortnight, GORCC opened Queens Park Caravan
Park for both weeks and the Ocean Road Park for the second week. Whilst Queens Park had
been used in previous years, Ocean Road was opened for the first time.
Queens Park averaged 75 sites or around 95% occupancy, with each site holding around 4
guests and the park holding in total around 300 visitors. This park has boom gate entrance
requiring security cards to access, and 24 hour security was in place.
Ocean Road had a specially fenced-off area which held 40 sites for one week, with about
200 guests, again with 24 hour security.
A set of park rules covering behaviour, noise, visiting times and 'no-glass’ were agreed to by
site holders prior to admittance. Each site holder lodged a Security Bond which was forfeited
if the rules were breached. This occurred on four occasions.
All guests were required to be wrist-banded with a GORCC-specific wrist band.
The key visiting rule was that no visitors, i.e. people without a GORCC wrist band, were
allowed entry between 6.00pm and 8.00am. This, along with security at the entrance
provided a safe and secure place to stay and was appreciated by the guests.
Apart from the evictees mentioned earlier, there was little or no trouble from the guests.
Some glass was confiscated, but not a major issue. Guests were required to clean their site
of all rubbish prior to the return of the bond.
The fencing of Ocean Rd was lined with hessian, making the park area more private, and
minimising the impact of the campers on the public.
Several incidents of violence occurred, in particular an assault on a security guard, but these
were carried out by non-schoolies.
We handed out SWG survey forms but none made their way back to us. We will be doing a
more detailed internal survey this year to determine profiles of visitors.
45
Foreshore: There was much improved clean up of the foreshore in 2008, with the special
teams commencing work late in the evening and finishing early each morning, The glass
free policy helped in this regard, but was commonly ignored as well by many during each
evening. No enforcement of this by-law was apparent from local bylaw officers.
Additional security along the Lorne foreshore was effective, but there were some isolated
acts of vandalism such as fires and graffiti.
Torquay suffered more severe acts of vandalism from schoolies residing, usually fires and
broken bottles in the Torquay Front Beach area, presumably, in the rental market sites
(Torquay Caravan Park did not book schoolies in 2008).
Rod Goring
Coastal Reserves Manager
Richard Davies
Commercial Business Manager
RED CROSS – save-a-mate (SAM)
Red Cross save-a-mate (SAM) volunteers attended Lorne Friday 28th, Saturday 29th and
Sunday 30th November. SAM volunteers set up a marquee on the Lorne foreshore from
1pm-8pm and engaged young people in the area, providing health promotion messages,
tattoos, bandaids, sunscreen and a place to sit and chill out. The main messages volunteers
focused on disseminating were, look out for each other, don’t mix drugs and the role and
importance of the YSAS youth workers. Due to the colder weather the number of young
people who visited the SAM marquee was down on last year. Approximately 90 young
people, over the three days.
GRANDVIEW ROAD HOLIDAY HOUSE
This year we had 2 groups of School Leavers staying at the house, a total of 20 students.
Minimal disruption to neighbourhood and no complaints. The system of wrist bands and
registration is a great system. Only comment in Torquay did not seem to be enough for
those under 18 to do. The bus was not very visible and possibly a timetable with its
movements?
We think the landlords through their agents or holiday rental people have a responsibility to
let their neighbors know that there will be a group renting the property. We also think the
landlords and rental agencies set very high restrictions, bonds and follow through with
checking the identity of prospective tenants.
We had a great time with our house, no damage and will rent again this year to School
Leaver groups.
Thank-you Martin Duke
SURF COAST TOURISM
46
Surf Coast Tourism was a partner of the Schoolies Working Group in 2008.
As part of this contribution Surf Coast Tourism:
x
x
x
Engaged with accommodation operators;
Developed a Schoolies Down South 2008 fact sheet; and
Provided assistance with wristband registrations
Surf Coast Tourism provided support and assistance to Accommodation Providers who have
endorsed the Schoolies Accommodation Providers “Code of Practice”.
The Code of Practice was developed in conjunction with Consumer Affairs Victoria with the
aim of advising accommodation providers about their responsibilities and rights when
accepting bookings from Schoolies. The Code includes issues such as discrimination,
information on bonds, deposits, eviction and general conditions of stay and asks
accommodation providers to:
x Develop conditions of stay, house rules and guidelines and communicate these clearly
to guests.
x Ensure that the rules and conditions are in line with the principles in the Code and do
not discriminate against young people.
The code also lets young people know their responsibilities and rights are in terms of
accommodation.
A full copy of the Code can be viewed on the Surf Coast Tourism website
www.visitsurfcoast.com.
To date there have been 23 Accommodation providers which have endorsed the Code of
Practice.
In 2008, 34 Accommodation Providers communicated to Surf Coast Tourism that they were
taking bookings for Schoolies. This figure also includes accommodation booking agencies
which take bookings on behalf of Private Rentals.
Schoolies Down South 2008 fact sheet
Surf Coast Tourism developed a fact sheet to assist young people plan their stay for
Schoolies Down South 2008. The fact sheet included details such as conditions of booking
accommodation, conditions of stay and highlighted young peoples rights and obligations to
their place of stay.
The fact sheet also listed the accommodation providers on the Surf Coast who have
endorsed the Schoolies Accommodation Providers “Code of Practice”. A copy of the fact
sheet can be found at www.surfcoast.vic.gov.au/tourism
47
Evaluation
The economic benefit to the region from the Schoolies Down South 2008 program is
estimated to be $2.78 million*. This is based on Tourism Research Australia’s “Travel by
Australians” report, in which domestic overnight visitors to Regional Victoria spent $116 per
night per visitor for the year ending June 2008.
As part of the evaluation of the Schoolies Down South 2008 program Surf Coast Tourism will
be conducting a questionnaire of accommodation providers to assist with the management in
2009.
Challenges/Opportunities for Surf Coast Tourism
Surf Coast Tourism has identified the following challenges and opportunities for 2009:
x
x
Ensure Surf Coast Accommodation Providers register with Surf Coast Tourism if they
will be taking Schoolies bookings in 2009
Ensure that the Code of Practice is signed by all Accommodation Providers who
register.
*based on the 3500 Schoolies wristband registrations.
48
6. The Future and Recommendations
6.1
Schoolies Working Group 2009
2009 will begin with an Events Discussion on 5th March 2009. The purpose of this meeting is
to explore the potential impacts of planned events on the Schoolies Period. The meeting will
be held after the Lorne CIAC meeting and include SWG and CIAC representatives,
community and external representatives. Businesses and entrepreneurs who have
expressed an interest in Event Management will be invited.
Information from the Events Discussion will be summarised into four categories: community,
young people, business and SWG. This information will be tabled for discussion at the first
SWG meeting for the year which is a planning meeting 13th March. The planning meeting will
also review membership of SWG, Terms of Reference, and consider SWG missions, aims
and objectives.
Summarised information from the Events Discussion will also be presented with this report at
a Council Briefing 11th March.
The SWG Planning Meeting will also review the outcomes from the De-brief process in
December 2008. Issues and challenges will be discussed, with potential outcomes. These
strategies will then form part of the Schoolies Management Plan for 2009. The issues and
challenges as per the De-briefs are listed below:
Stakeholder De-brief
x Cosy Corner
x Glass
x Increase water
x Wristbands – many ideas to be developed
x Drug issue
x Chill-out zone for Torquay
x Need to better engage and work with communities to manage Schoolies period
x Need to accept that will never be able to keep everyone happy
x Police presence
x Buses – over filling and rubbish
Torquay Community De-brief
x Private rentals, need strategy’s to work with young people in these properties
x Suggestion of a Code of Conduct to go to all young people
x Young people need to respect the community
x Problems exist when young people are on their way home at night
x Management of under-age drinking
x Glass
49
Lorne Community De-Brief
x Where are the by-law officers? Drinking and glass are not enforced
x Private rental unregulated
x Lack of respect from School Leavers
x Entertainment for School Leavers – explore
x Place skip bins in the streets at hot spots for locals to assist in the clean up
and increase options for young people
x Young people noisy when dropped off by the bus
x Code of Conduct for young people
x Need more community assistance
SWG will face further resourcing challenges for 2009 with a $20 000 reduction from the 2008
budget due to the TAC Road Safety Community Grant being a one-off.
The National Schoolies Conference is scheduled for June in Drug Action Week – week
beginning 22nd June 2009. Currently Office for Youth (OFY), the Australian Drug Foundation
and Surf Coast Shire Youth Development are applying for funding and working together to
plan the conference, with OFY taking the lead role. So far planning is on-track and it has
been fantastic for a three-tied approach with a national organisation to be working with state
and local government.
6.2
SWISC and State Level Co-ordination
As previously mentioned in Section 3 of this report, OFY took over the Schoolies portfolio
from PDPC and has now experienced their first Schoolies Period as Coordinator of SWISC.
OFY has been pro-active in their coordination role, focusing on achieving the best
membership and structure for the meetings. SWISC will reconvene on 3rd March 2009.
As per the SWISC Planning Meeting for 2008, four focus areas were agreed upon by
stakeholders:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Education
Communications
Supporting Local Communities
Research
50
It remains a challenge for Schoolies to be managed at a State and National level, however
for consistent education, culture change and appropriate resourcing it is absolutely
essential. OFY are working hard to plan and host the National Schoolies Conference in
Victoria (Lorne) and to ensure that the Conference has a local, state and federal presence
and outcomes. OFY with its partners will also work to ensure young people and the
community are represented.
Office for Youth in the Department of Employment Education and Workplace Relations in
Canberra as part of the Australian Federal Government formed as an outcome of the
federal election mid 2007. OFY Canberra presents an opportunity to develop partners on
a national level and to place a stronger emphasis on Schoolies federally. OFY Victoria
has begun developing a working relationship with OFY Canberra, keeping them informed
of developments and the National Conference.
6.3
Partnerships within Surf Coast Shire
Currently co-ordination of SWG is the responsibility of the Team Leader of the Youth
Development Team at Surf Coast Shire. The SWG operates as a sub-committee of CIAC,
as management of the Schoolies Period requires a multi-disciplinary approach within
Council and across the community.
Many staff at Surf Coast Shire have a role to play in managing the Schoolies Period as a
peak tourism period, as they do with summer, events and New Years Eve. Some areas of
Council are represented on SWG including: Tourism, Communications, Planning and
Environment and Community Development. The Events team co-ordinate CIAC so
historical links are maintained with staff who previously coordinated SWG. Local Laws
and Parks and Outdoor Spaces are also consulted on a regular basis.
Whether a Council employee should coordinate SWG is an issue that requires further
exploration. Council is often seen as the face of Schoolies and thus receives constant
criticism. Often criticism from local residents can be contradictory from one resident to the
next i.e. Council should not be financially contributing to Schoolies Management vs.
Council should be doing more to manage this period effectively. For every argument there
is a counter-argument. This issue of coordination will be placed on the agenda of the
Planning Meeting for further discussion.
There is no doubt that Schoolies management is becoming increasingly complex. Lorne
and Torquay as naturally beautiful destinations continue to attract more young people;
media interest continues; the resources utilised on the ground are becoming utterly
exhausted; community members continue to advocate for change; co-ordination from all of
the SWG members is exceeding current budgetary resources; and co-ordination of SWG
within Council could easily be a full time role.
Whilst OFY have become active and the state-wide focus on Schoolies and the bingedrinking culture increases, the gap of federal representation widens. Enticing involvement
from national partners will continue to challenge SWG and SWISC in 2009. The National
Conference in Lorne presents a potential platform for federal involvement and national
partnerships with organisations such as Australian Drug Foundation (ADF).
51
6.4
Recommendations for 2009
SWG continues to work within uncertain and fluid boundaries, conditions and budgets.
Planning for Schoolies continues to be complex and multi-faceted. Views of the
community are varied and passionate depending on resident to resident, so it remains
difficult to accurately reflect the community in planning and decision making due to the
variation.
The following recommendations are an outcome of evaluation procedures, discussions,
debriefs, the planning day and reflection. It is suggested that these points be considered
at the SWG Planning Meeting.
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
6.5
Continue to lobby to the State Government for adequate resourcing. Advocate to
the State Government for pressure to be applied to the Federal Government.
Explore Event Management.
Consider use of terms such as Toolies, Schoolies Period, etc.
Whose role is SWG coordination? Discuss, reach consensus.
Define SWG’s values, mission and objectives.
Create strategies to reach young people in private rental.
Consider the binge drinking culture. What can SWG and SWISC do to start to
create change?
Continue to develop strategies that aim to reduce the amount of glass.
Review the website. Review registration and wristbands. Can School Leavers
register on-line?
Review all SWG strategies at the Planning Meeting.
SWG to reach agreement on the length of the Schoolies Period and views
regarding promotion of the Schoolies Period.
Address the role of Local Laws during Schoolies.
Resources and Funding 2009
SWG remains under-resourced to adequately support local communities to manage the
Schoolies Period and ensure that risk is minimised. Management of Schoolies really
needs a multi-tiered response from government to ensure that communities can manage
and young people are not beginning their adult-hood with un-safe celebrations of major
milestones.
SWG is hopeful of re-current funding from Surf Coast Shire Council and Office for Youth.
It is without doubt that more resources are required. Hopefully the opportunity to host the
National Schoolies Conference will enable a platform to encourage federal partnerships
and exposure of the need for support.
52
7. Appendices
7.1
Appendix 1. Table of Community and Government Contributions
Initiative
Establishment of 0.8 EFT position to coordinate SWG, Accommodation
Networks and Surf Coast Schoolies
Actions
Continued use of Media and
Communication Strategy including proactive media release plan
Implement and manage Youth Worker
Program
Organisation
Surf Coast Shire (SCS).
Theme Addressed
Co-ordination and facilitation
enabling SWG to address all
themes.
SWG, facilitated by Surf
Coast Shire
Management of the Media
SCS, YSAS with funding
from Office for Youth
Shuttle Bus service in both Lorne and
Torquay
Partnership between
SCS, Munday Hotels, Red
Frogs, YSAS and TAC
Community Road Safety
Grants
Young People’s health management
Lorne Community
Hospital
SCS, Red Frogs, YSAS
and the Police,
headspace Barwon, Red
Cross, Student Life
Red Frogs and SCS
Management of harm
minimisation issues,
education of young people
Safety of young people:
moving crowds back to
accommodation safely at
night; less drink driving; less
young people on the streets
and less noise in public
places.
Harm Minimisation responses,
supporting young people
Management of foreshore,
education of young people.
Welcome Barbecue and Foreshore
activities and music
Continue “Chill Out” space
Extra recreational activities on the
foreshore
Red Frogs
Accommodation Code of Practice
SCS, Consumer Affairs
Victoria, Surf Coast
Tourism
SCS, Red Frogs, youth
Central, OFY
Victoria Police with
support SWG and
SWISC.
SCS, Munday Group,
TAC, YSAS and Red
Frogs.
Information brochures, web based
information and posters
Police resources during Schoolies
Period
Provision of free bottled water to young
people as part of harm minimisation
message
53
Support of Young people,
education and harm
minimisation.
Management of the
Foreshore. (Positive activities
for young people)
Working with Accommodation
providers, education for young
people.
Education of young people.
Education of the community.
Management of the
Foreshore, and Management
of “Toolies”.
Management of harm
minimisation issues on the
foreshore.
7.2
Appendix 2. Schoolies Down South Action Plan 08/09
Management Plan
2008/09
54
Why have a Schoolies Down South
Program?
The Schoolies Down South Program exists to:
“Provide a cooperative planning approach between service providers, land managers, business
and community to effectively manage this peak period (end November to start December) in
accordance with harm minimisation principles”.
In providing appropriate planning and management during this peak time, we want to:
Manage visitation well
Provide a safe & welcoming environment for both visitors to the Surf Coast and the community
Present a positive image of the Surf Coast to encourage repeat visitation
Minimise the misuse of substances and impact of negative social issues (e.g. drinking, drink
driving, vandalism, etc)
Our Values
Achievement: We value young peoples achievements of completing a milestone (VCE or
equivalent)
Respect for individuals: We respect visiting young peoples’ rights, residents’ &
businesses’ rights
Pride of Place: We are proud of our towns and want to share these assets with others and
foster a common understanding and value base that is based on respect
Continuous Improvement: We will seek ways to improve the system and its processes
The Schoolies Down South System View.
The ‘system’ view overleaf is a map of the Schoolies Down South program clearly identifying the
core working group, suppliers, stakeholders and customers.
It also clearly identifies the different processes in relation to Schoolies Down South, the outputs
produced and the results that are expected to be achieved.
In creating a good overview of the entire system, we will better be able to understand the targets
and the overall success of the program. The systems view is the basis for reporting on Schoolies
Down South and the evaluation to identify any areas that need to be improved.
This action plan centres around the core ‘processes’ identified for Schoolies Down South.
55
Surf Coast Shire
GORCC
Munday Group
Rural Ambulance Victoria
CFA
Lorne Community Hospital
Lorne Business and Tourism
Association
Victoria Police
Red Cross
YSAS
Red Frogs
Education
Data Collection
Crisis Response
Emergency services
Presence (observational support)
Youth Support
Harm Minimisation
Local Information
Food
Accommodation

Dept of Education
Other LGA’s (Bass Coast &
Mornington Peninsula)
Torquay Commerce & Tourism
Lorne Business & Tourism
State Government - OFY
Local residents & businesses
Other Stakeholders

Inputs (Services/Products)

Suppliers (People)
Continuous Improvement: We will seek ways to improve the system and its processes
Pride of Place: We are proud of our towns and want to share these assets with others and foster an common
understanding and value base that is based on respect
Respect for individuals: We respect both visiting young peoples’ rights, residents’ & businesses’ rights
Achievement: We value young peoples achievements of completing a milestone (VCE or equivalent)
use, etc)
Student Life
Lorne Hospital
Munday Group
Red Frogs
Red Cross
YSAS
Police
GORCC
Surf Coast Tourism
Surf Coast Shire
Regulation
Waste Reduction
Support for volunteer suppliers
Media response
Communication & Education
Road Safety
Youth Support Program
Registration
Processes

Feedback

56

Registered Domain
Names
(www.schooliesdown
south.com.au)
Property / Assets
Victoria Police
SWISC
Surf Coast Tourism
GORCC
Council
Process Measures
(either cycle time or defect
count)
Need to be lead indicators
of performance.
Value Adding

Relationships
Minimise the misuse of substances and impact of negative social issues (eg drinking, drink driving, vandalism, drug
Present a positive image of the Surf Coast to encourage repeat visitation
Provide a safe & welcoming environment for both visitors to the Surf Coast and the community
Manage visitation well
Our People

Vision – We want to:
Mission – The Schoolies Down South Program exists in order to:
“Provide a cooperative planning approach between service providers, land managers, business and community to effectively
manage this peak period (end November to start December) in accordance with harm minimisation principles”.

Values
‘Schoolies Down South’ Systems View

Media
Young People
Who are they?
95% 17-18 years old
72% Melbourne (maj. high
soc/eco)
Where do they stay?
30% commercial accom, 30%
private house, 30% camping
What do they want?
Good location, good/safe time,
21% influenced by their friends
choices
Can SDS be improved?
17% can’t be improved
40% day activities
Parents of Young People

Targets

Refer to Schoolies Action Plan
2008/09
Clean up costs ($)
# welcome BBQs
Media articles (+, -, =)
Repeat Visitation
Visitor spend
# of visitor nights
# of visitors
Results Measures
(How are they measured?)
Outcomes
Economic impacts, community perception
(social impact), reduced waste/litter
Referral points in case of incidents
Media Releases
Shuttle Buses
BBQs
Presence of volunteers and workers
Low key activities
Wrist Bands
Information Packs (hard copy and online)
Outputs (services we deliver to meet customer’s needs)

Customers
Budget 07/08
Budget
Income
State Government
$
Expenditure
30,000 YSAS
Evaluation:
- Wages
- Supervision
- Facilitation of Focus
Groups
$
25,601.40
3,40.73
890
227.50
30,159.63
Council
Council (in-kind)
AER Foundation
Grant
15,000 LCH Shuttle Bus 2006
Welcome BBQs
Hardware
SCS Bus hire
SCS Bus petrol
YSAS Bus Petrol
YSAS - Clothing
Communication tools
External Facilitator
YSAS Info Packs
Signage (Sparra)
Water barriers
Coates
Replacement Totem
Replacement Skate
Boards
Coates Collection
Street Cleaning
Vomit Bags
Info Sheets
National Schoolies
Conference
Catering
Marquee
66,203.85 Council (in-kind)
1,176
660.10
540.98
27.90
818.95
385.50
300
618.75
279
227.50
513.70
300
891
492
300.73
39.98
254.89
431.84
1,936.00
84
2500
741.28
612.10
727
192.90
359.93
66,203.85
80,439.88
Total Income
$112,379.85 Total Expenditure
GORCC
$16,140
Lorne Community Hospital $7,975
Red Frogs
$30,240
Red Frogs (in-kind)
Red Cross SAM
YSAS (in-kind)
57
$110,599.51
$60,000
$3,750
$40,000
Budget 08/09 (on-going)
Budget
Income
State Government
$
Expenditure
30,000 YSAS
$
30 000
30,000
Council
TAC Grant
Total Income
15,000 YSAS - Clothing
External Facilitator
Community Fact
Sheet
Printing
Water Barriers
Street Cleaning
Catering
½ Security
½ Extra Rubbish
Collection
Container (Red
Frogs)
Student Life support
Vomit Bags
BBQs
20,000 Buses
Info Sheets
Wrist bands
Signage
Marquee
Petrol
Water
$65,000 Total Expenditure
58
1 740.91
120
1 395.30
507.60
1 280
256.21
4 000
3 673
500
250
150
455.99
(14 329.01)
5 806.07
1 133
3 128
5 079.20
2 635
776.52
2 016.40
(20 574.19)
$65,000
Budget – 08/09
Budget
Income
State Government
Council
Carry over
TAC Grant
Total Income
$
Expenditure
30 000 YSAS
Misc
$
27 500
2 750
30 000
15 000 YSAS – Clothing
uniforms
4 000 External Facilitator
Signage
Water Barriers
Street Cleaning
Catering
Container (Red Frogs)
Student Life support
Vomit Bags
Extra Security foreshore
Extra rubbish collection
BBQs
1 800.00
20 000 Buses
Info Sheets
Wrist bands
Signage
Petrol
Water
Marquee Hire
2 801.30
$65 000 Total Expenditure
59
1 100.00
400.00
2 000.00
500.00
250.00
3 800.00
3 500.00
1 000.00
3 128.00
5 079.20
1 293.00
$65 000
The Schoolies Down South Action Plan for 2008 is as follows:
Process 1: Registration
Task
Registration of
Schoolies at
Check in
Action(s)
x
x
x
x
x
Wristbands
Data Collection
Who does
it?
(Our People,
Suppliers)
Register young people x Accommod
ation
on arrival as
Providers &
Schoolies.
assistance
Assign colour coded
from Red
wristbands.
Frogs,
Fill out registration
YSAS and
form.
Student Life
Educate young people
on the conditions of
stay & local
information.
Red Frogs will register
young people from
private
accommodation or as
misc.
Milestones? Why do it?
(Outputs and
Outcomes)
x To identify young
people as Schoolies.
x Provide local
information and
education – to build
mutual respect.
x Create a positive
relationship with clear
boundaries.
x Raise awareness of
conditions of stay.
x Collect data. To
reach young people
staying privately so
they have access to
information and
support, and so we
know where young
people are residing.
x Confirm by
x Assists with data
July meeting.
collection.
Funds
x Enables workers and
available via
the community to
TAC grant.
identify Schoolies and
also where they are
staying.
x Acknowledges young
people as a Schoolie
and creates a subculture that they are
part of.
x Registering young
x SCS, Red
people as “Schoolies”
Frogs,
with wrist bands.
YSAS,
Wristbands will be
Accommod
colour coded
ation
according to place of
Providers
stay.
x A colour coded chart
will be distributed to
SWG and staff on the
ground during
Schoolies – such as
Security – to help
manage young
people.
x Enables us to reach
x Accommod x Confirm by
x When young people
young people and
ation
July meeting.
register they will be
find out valuable
Providers,
asked to provide
information. This
Red Frogs,
information and
information can be
YSAS, SCS
completed an official
used by SWISC to
SDS registration form.
x Confirm June
target certain groups
x Distribute
meeting
of young people for
questionnaires.
the following year.
x Young people will
x
To gather information
need to show
from young people
appropriate ID such as
about their
a driver’s licence or
experience.
student card.
x SDS website had
over 10 000 hits in
Nov 2007. Valuable
information could be
obtained.
60
Results
Measure &
Targets
x Numbers of
young people
registered.
x Feedback from
young people
and
Accommodatio
n Providers.
x Information
from data
collection.
x Numbers of
registered
young people
vs number of
bookings
provided by
Accommodatio
n Providers.
x Feedback from
young people
and
Accommodatio
n Providers.
x Numbers of
young people
registered.
x Numbers of
questionnaires
received.
x Number of
questionnaires
completed on
SDS website.
Process 2: Youth Support Program
Task
Welcome BBQs
Action(s)
x Welcome young
people to SCS.
x An opportunity to
provide information
and for young people
to meet support
workers and
members of SWG.
x Provide food and
water to young
people.
‘Save a Mate’
program
x To provide basic
harm minimisation
and health promotion
messages to
schoolies.
x Provide free water.
Who does
it?
(Our People,
Suppliers)
x SCS, Red
Frogs,
YSAS,
Student
Life and
other
stakeholde
rs if
available
such as
Vic Police.
(Outputs and Outcomes)
x Lorne BBQs
26th, 29th
Nov and 3rd
Dec.
x Torquay
nd
BBQ 2
Dec.
x Makes young people
feel welcome, creates
a positive environment.
x Enables workers to get
harm minimisation
information to young
people.
x Helps young people to
recognise support
workers
x Red Cross
SAM
Volunteers
and staff
(Katie
Scott)
x To keep schoolies safe
and reduce the risks
from drug and alcohol
use.
x Basic fist aid e.g.
bandaids, sunscreen
etc.
x To provide a range of
volunteers on the
ground during the
peak week of the
Schoolies Period.
x Numbers of
young
people
attending.
x Feedback
from
questionaries
given out at
the BBQ.
x Numbers of
schoolies
spoken to
x Amount of
water
handed out
x Number of
First Aid
requests
x Provide chill out
space.
Red Frogs
Results
Measure &
Targets
x Data from
incident
reports
x Red Frogs
x To help provide a safe
environment for young
people.
x Feedback
from young
people.
x Results from
questionnair
es.
x Feedback
from Red
Frogs debriefs.
Chill Out Zone
x Run a Chill Out Zone
in Lorne for young
people to hang out
somewhere safe with
supervision, quiet
activities, food, water
and hot drinks.
x Red Frogs
x Provides a safe place
for young people
without substances.
x Enables Red Frogs to
assess situations for
appropriate referral.
x Enables Red Frogs to
get a sense of the
issues facing young
people while at SDS.
Free Water
x Arrange for suppliers
of free water.
x Distribute water to
young people on the
shuttle bus, at Chill
x YSAS,
Munday
Group,
Red Cross
61
x Confirm
September
x Deliver Nov
x Provides young people
with an alternative to
alcohol. Helps young
people maintain
hydration and minimise
x Number of
young
people
utilising the
Chill Out
Zone.
x Feedback
forms.
x Feedback
from Red
Frog
volunteers.
x Number of
water bottles
accessed.
x Feedback
from young
Task
Action(s)
Who does
it?
(Our People,
Suppliers)
Out Zones, by YSAS
staff etc.
harm.
x Helps educate young
people with important
safety and health
information.
x Collect discarded
water bottles.
YSAS Youth
Worker Program
Lorne Drop-In
Centre
x To provide support
and advocacy to
young people
participating in
Schoolies
celebrations in Lorne
and Torquay during
the Schoolies Period.
x To respond to the
needs of young
people at risk via
identified referral
pathways.
x To promote harm
reduction and
infection control
strategies amongst
young people
attending Schoolies
celebrations.
x To interface with
community members
and local businesses
in order to promote
and foster positive
relationships with
Schoolies.
x Operates inside and
creates alcohol free
zone. Simple,
relational activities
(such as cards,
playing pool, playing
music, making
pancakes,
conversations,
manicures and
pedicures) done
together with and
provided by qualified
SL workers and
volunteers.
x SCS in
service
agreement
with YSAS.
x Student
Life
62
x During the
Schoolies
Period in
Lorne
Results
Measure &
Targets
people and
SWG.
x Amount of
water bottles
on the
ground.
x To support young
people during
Schoolies.
x To provide crisis
response and referral
pathways for young
people.
x To help keep young
people safe during the
Schoolies Period.
x To educate young
people and provide
information and advice
on staying safe and
looking after your
mates.
x To support local
business and the
community.
x Summary
reports from
YSAS with
less
incidents,
assaults etc
than the
previous
year.
x People
counters.
x Observations
and reports
from Youth
Workers.
x Provides an
alternative, alcohol-free
environment where
Schoolies are sober (or
‘sober up’) and hang
out with their friends.
Activities provide
‘something to do’ other
than drinking but are
not attractions or
events. Every hour a
young person is in the
Drop-In Centre is an
hour they are in a
positive environment
and not on the street or
foreshore.
x Number of
Schoolies in
positive
environment,
More
qualified
workers and
volunteers
(SL) in touch
with more
Schoolies.
Process 3: Road Safety
Task
Action(s)
Who does
it?
(Our People,
Suppliers)
x SCS, Red
Frogs,
Munday
Group
Shuttle Buses in
Lorne and
Torquay
x Provide free transport
for young people on
a specified route
during the Schoolies
Period.
x Provide transport to
help keep young
people wondering the
streets.
x Have worker
presence on the
buses for support.
x Provide water.
x Liaise with the Hotels
and Accommodation
Providers around
needs.
Signs
x Place signage at the
entrances to the town
and in key positions
with information
about local laws and
road safety
messages.
x Place bus stops
signs as each of the
bus stops.
x Local
Laws, SCS
x Day prior to
the
Schoolies
Period.
Info Sheets
x Organise relevant
harm minimisation
and bus routes
information to be
printed on an info
sheet for young
people.
x Distribute info sheets
to Accommodation
Providers, Visitor
Information Centres,
in info packs and to
SWG to ensure that
young people have
board access.
x SCS
x Must be
completed
by
November
63
x Helps move young
people off the streets.
x Gives young people
easy access to
transport so deters
drink driving.
x Leads to less cars on
the roads.
x Provides an
engagement
opportunity and time
without drinking.
x Supports the
community by moving
young people on from
congregation points in
neighbourhoods.
x Helps reduce noise
and possibly vandalism
as young are collected
when wondering from
destinations.
x Educate young people
on the laws and
regulations of the
towns.
x Encourage young
people to think about
their safety and key
safety messages.
x Inform young people
on the bus collection
points.
x Gives young people
easy access to local
information, provides
harm minimisation
information and
emergency contact
information.
Results
Measure &
Targets
x Numbers of
young people
using the bus.
x Number of
times the bus is
run along the
assigned bus
route.
x Feedback from
young people
and SWG.
x Reductions in
penalty notices
and police
reports around
traffic offences.
x Providers have
enough info
sheets for each
young person.
x Feedback from
young people.
Process 4: Communication & Education
Task
Setting dates for
Schoolies
Code of Practice
Community
Action(s)
x Set dates for the
Schoolies Period in
October the previous
year.
x The service period
will reflect the level of
resources available
to key stakeholders.
x Advertise the dates
on SDS website.
x Plan the Harm
Minimisation
Program around
these dates.
x Ensure input from
Accommodation
Providers to ensure
that the program is
delivered in the peak
period.
x Aim to reduce to the
Schoolies Period to
one week without
compromising
services if there are
large numbers of
bookings. (Ensure
that young people
and the community
are not left without
support as a means
to reduce the Period).
x To provide a
recommended Code
of Practise
x Prepare monthly
media releases in the
months leading up to
Schoolies.
x Update the
Community Fact
Sheet and distribute
with the rates to
Lorne and Torquay
residents.
x At the end of the
Schoolies Period
arrange a community
de-brief.
Who does
it?
(Our People,
Suppliers)
x SWG
Results
Measure &
Targets
x October –
prior year
x To encourage
bookings during the
service period. To
advertise the support
period where services
are available – this is
according to and
limited by resources.
x Most of the
bookings are
within the
service
period.
x SCS
Tourism in
conjunction
with
Accommod
ation
Providers
x Yearly
x Numbers
signed up to
the
document
x SCS
x Months prior
and with Oct
Groundswell
x De-brief –
December.
x To educate
Accommodation
Providers on best
practise principles.
x As assist young people
locate the more
“Schoolie Friendly”
providers
x To educate the
community on the
types of services that
are available during
Schoolies.
x To educate the
community on the SDS
program, key
stakeholders, contact
numbers and advice.
x To improve
communication with
the community.
64
x Community
reactions to
SDS
improve.
x Community
feel
supported
during SDS.
x Feedback
provided at
de-brief.
x Numbers of
residents
attending the
Task
Action(s)
Who does
it?
(Our People,
Suppliers)
Parents of
School Leavers
x Have a
representative of
SWG on SWISC to
create strategies to
educate parents of
school leavers
x SCS &
Red Frogs
Young People
x Provide up-to-date
information on the
SDS website.
x Provide young
people with harm
minimisation
information.
x Provide young
people with a Fact
Sheet.
x Presence of Red
Frogs, YSAS staff etc
liaising and educating
young people.
x Provide welcome
BBQs as a means to
educate young
people on services
and as means to
hand out relevant
information.
x Register as many
Schoolies as possible
to ensure that each
young person
receives information.
x SWG
Accommodation
Providers
x Hold a forum for
Accommodation
Providers.
x Ensure that
Accommodation
Providers are on the
mailing list for SWG.
x SCS
Schoolies
Enquiries
x To track Visitor
Information Centre
x SCS
Tourism,
x Bi-monthly
x So parents are aware
of their parental
responsibilities during
x So parents can help
their children plan
appropriately for the
Schoolies Period.
x To help young people
be responsible during
x So young people are
educated and
information on
services, health
information, local
information, safety
information and where
to go for help if
required.
x Mid-year
65
x Accommodation
Providers are a key link
to young people during
x To provide a
coordinated response
Period it is important
that Accommodation
Providers have input in
to the planning etc.
x To provider support to
Accommodation
Providers.
x To raise awareness of
where enquiries are
Results
Measure &
Targets
de-brief.
x Reports from
SWISC
about
parental
education.
x SDS are
observing
better
behaviour
during the
Schoolies
Period.
x Feedback
from young
people.
x Observations
from SWG.
x Feedback
from
Accommodat
ion Providers
about the
forum.
x Attendance
by
Accommodat
ion Providers
at SWG.
x General
feedback
from
Accommodat
ion
Providers.
x Number of
enquiries
Task
Communications
Strategy
Training and
Support for
Volunteers
Action(s)
(VIC) enquiries.
x To count the number
of hits to the
Schoolies Down
South Website.
x Have an up-to-date
communications
strategy.
x Provide basic training
and strategies to
support young people
x Work together to
provide best possible
outcomes for young
people
Who does
it?
(Our People,
Suppliers)
SCS IT
coming from.
x To gather information
to inform our practises.
and when –
peak times.
x Types of
enquiries.
x Knowledge
of the
document by
SWG.
x Feedback
from SWG
regarding the
document.
x Changes to
the
document
each year.
x Attendance
at training
and support
sessions
x Number of
contacts
during shifts
x Outcomes of
contacts
x SCS,
SWG, SCS
Communic
ations
x March revised
x To ensure that SWG
have a planned and
coordinated response.
x To ensure that SWG
provide consistent
responses to media
enquiries.
x
x
x
x
x Yearly
x Support and training of
volunteers
x Accountability
x Clarification of roles
x Prevent blurring of
boundaries
YSAS
Red Frogs
Red Cross
Accommod
ation
Providers
Results
Measure &
Targets
Process 5: Media
Task
Action(s)
Communication
and Media
Strategy
x Produce a
Communication and
Media Strategy.
x Detail a coordinated
response to Media
enquiries.
Contact Sheet
x Distribute a Contact
Sheet to SWG with
media statement and
contact details of the
key players during
x Scan and email
newspaper articles to
SWG.
Newspaper
Article - Sharing
Who does
it?
(Our People,
Suppliers)
x SCS
Communic
ations
x Yearly
x Streamlines and
informs communication
and responses by
SWG.
x SCS
x Yearly –
distribute
early
November
x So stakeholders have
an easy reference
sheet during the
Schoolies Period.
x SCS
x
x To keep key
stakeholders aware of
media exposure.
66
Results
Measure &
Targets
x Knowledge
of the
Strategy by
SWG.
x Positive vs
Negative
media
coverage.
x
x Daily
coverage of
media
articles are
circulated to
SWG.
Process 6: Accommodation Providers
Task
Code of Practice
Accommodation
Providers Forum
Action(s)
x Encourage
Accommodation
Providers to sign the
Accommodation
Code of Practise.
x Distribute information
about the code each
year.
x Update Fact Sheet
with relevant
information.
x To hold a forum for
Accommodation
Providers to come
together and share
strategies.
Who does
it?
(Our People,
Suppliers)
x SCS
Tourism
Outputs and( Outcomes)
Results
Measure &
Targets
x
x Educates
Accommodation
Providers.
x Allows Accommodation
Providers to choose to
sign and then young
people are directed to
those signed.
x
x SCS
Tourism &
Youth
x June 2008
x To work together to
support each other and
share ideas and
strategies.
x To improve outcomes.
x Feedback
from
Accommodat
ion Providers
at the end of
the forum.
Who does
it?
Process 7: Volunteer Support
Task
Cheap meals
Accommodation
discounts
Action(s)
x To provide
discounted meal to
volunteers during the
Schoolies Period.
x To provide
Accommodation for
volunteers during the
Schoolies Period.
(Our People,
Suppliers)
x Lorne &
Torquay
Hotel
x Accommod
ation
Providers –
Mantra &
GORCC
67
(Outputs and
Outcomes)
x To support volunteers
for assisting SWG
Period.
x To support volunteers
for assisting SWG
Period.
x To have trained
volunteer presence
where there are high
concentrations of
young people.
x To provide better
management of young
people – increase
safety during the
Schoolies Period.
Results
Measure &
Targets
Process 8: Waste Management
Task
Glass Free
Campaign
Butt Free
Beaches
Reduce Litter
Action(s)
x To advocate to
licensed
premises to
reduce if not stop
the sale of glass
packaged
products during
Schoolies.
x To encourage
Accommodation
Providers to
confiscate glass.
x To provide
signage to
encourage
visitors to keep
the Surf Coast
glass free.
x To support Butt
Free Beaches
campaign by
including
messages on
Schoolies
materials.
x To arrange more
frequent public
bin collections.
x To arrange for
weekly yellow
bin collections.
x To arrange for
bins to be
collected later in
the morning.
Who does it?
Results
Measure &
Targets
(Our People,
Suppliers)
(Outputs and
Outcomes)
x SCS
x Broken glass is
a health and
safety concern
for young
people,
residents and
visitors.
x Less glass and
broken glass to
collect.
x SCS
x To support local
laws. To
support the Surf
Coast
environment.
x Fewer Butts on
Beaches.
Greater
awareness of
new local laws.
x SCS
x Less Litter on
the streets.
x Less Litter on
the streets.
68
Process 9: Regulation
Task
Action(s)
Who does Milestones? Why do it?
(Outputs and
it?
(Our People,
Suppliers)
x Victoria
Police
Police
x To ensure public order
by providing adequate
policing. To provide
adequate policing and a
visual policing presence
Period.
x For Police to actively
participate on SWG.
Local Laws
x To provide visual
enforcement of local
laws during Schoolies
Period.
x To ensure that visitors
are abiding by the local
laws of each town.
x SCS &
Victoria
Police
GROCC
x To provide security for
the Foreshore.
x To minimise litter and
arrange rubbish
collection.
x To work closely with
SWG and partners to
minimise harm.
x Provide a coordinated
response with SWG
partners.
x GORCC
Reducing the
Schoolies Period
to 1 week
x Work with
Accommodation
Providers to coordinate
bookings.
x Market Schoolies
Period to a particular
timeframe.
x Research other models
& ways to reduce
Schoolies Period.
x SWG
69
Outcomes)
x To ensure
community
safety.
x To ensure that
the police can
respond quickly
to incidents.
x To regulate the
towns in line
with local laws.
x To manage a
high risk period.
x So workers on
the ground feel
supported and
have a referral
point to report
crime.
x To ensure that
local laws are
upheld and that
visitors are
respecting the
values of the
towns they are
visiting.
x To support the
local
community.
x To help local
community feel
safer.
x To manage the
Foreshore as
safely as
possible.
x Same amount
of resources for
a shorter period
of time.
x Less stress
placed on
support
services and
the community.
Results
Measure &
Targets
x Positive
feedback from
the community.
x Monitor levels of
crime and public
order.
x Increased visual
presence of
local laws
officers.
x Increased
infringements?
x Most of the
Schoolies
bookings are in
a one-week
time frame
7.3
Appendix 3. Schoolies Working Group Terms of Reference
Terms of Reference
Schoolies Down South, Surf Coast
1.
Purpose of the Advisory Committee
The purpose of the Schoolies Working group (SWG) is to facilitate integrated planning to manage this peak
period (end Nov – beginning of Dec) in accordance with harm minimisation principles, and to enhance
community safety in relation to Schoolies Down South.
2.
Background
CIAC:
The Community Impact Advisory Committee is an all of government/ community group that works to minimise
the negative impacts to people and property especially at times when our towns are at their busiest (New
Year’s Eve, Easter and peak tourist times) and/or when there is an event.
The SWG grew as a sub-group from CIAC and now exists as a multi-disciplinary Working Group, with a broad
cross-section of organisations and is facilitated by the Youth Development Team within Surf Coast Shire.
SCHOOLIES WORKING GROUP:
Since the 1990’s the Surf Coast has become an increasingly popular destination for what has become known
as “Schoolies” celebrations. This involves young people from Victoria and inter-state celebrating the end of
Year 12 examinations, observing a traditional holiday for a week (a week to party after graduation) at various
holiday destinations around the country.
The SWG have in the past, put in place a variety of strategies and programs aimed at making this period one
which is safe and minimises the negative impacts on the Torquay and Lorne communities.
3.
Role of the Schoolies Working Group
a. The SWG is a multi-disciplinary group. Individuals on the Working Group will represent their
own agencies as stakeholders in Schoolies Down South.
b. The Working Group will co-ordinate advice on policy and procedures for the Schoolies Period
amongst the representative agencies / stakeholders.
c. The representatives on the committee are responsible for their own agency commitments and
resourcing.
d. The committee will be proactive and emphasise community planning.
e. The SWG will have a representative from CIAC who will ensure that feedback is provided to the
groups (Lorne, Torquay and the CIAC Strategic Planning Meetings), to maintain the link and
relationship with CIAC.
70
4.
Terms of Office
The nominated agency, community group or organisation membership is ongoing with an annual review to be
held at the annual stakeholder de-brief. Each agency, community group or organisation is to nominate a
representative. During the term of office the SWG will be required to determine meeting dates at the beginning
of each year.
5.
Composition of the Schoolies Working Group
The composition of the SWG shall reflect representatives of the Key Stakeholders involved in the planning and
management of the Schoolies Period. When appropriate, guests will be invited.
Members are directly related to their agency’s capacity to contribute to community safety and wellbeing, and
implement a program aimed at reducing harm over the Schoolies Down South Period.
Representatives from the following organisations compose the SWG:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
6.
Community Representative (Councillor)
Victoria Police
YSAS (Youth Substance Abuse Service)
Surf Coast Shire (Tourism)
Surf Coast Shire (Youth Development)
CFA
Lorne Hospital
Great Ocean Road Coast Committee
Munday Group
Red Frogs (Hotel Chaplaincy)
Accommodation Providers (Torquay and Lorne)
Tourism & Trader Associations in Torquay and Lorne
Office Bearers
The Schoolies Working Group is facilitated by the Team Leader of Youth Development, with administration
support from Community Services at Surf Coast Shire.
7.
Role and Responsibilities of Council
a. Surf Coast Shire will provide leadership, co-ordination and facilitation of the SWG.
b. Council will provide administrative support to the Schoolies Working Group.
c. Council to facilitate workshops, strategic and general meetings for the SWG.
8.
Decision Making
The SWG will at all times attempt to make decisions by consensus however the SWG may vote if this is not
possible.
SWG representatives are responsible for the actions and resources of their own agencies.
9.
Communications
As per the Media and Communications Strategy.
10.
Scope of the Schoolies Working Group
There is an understanding that the SWG cannot make decisions on behalf of agencies, but can make strategic
recommendations. Agreed actions towards Schoolies Down South lie within individual agencies’ budgets and
accountability.
71
7.4
Appendix 4. Youth Worker Program Service Agreement
Service Agreement
Between
Surf Coast Shire and
Youth Substance Abuse Service
Schoolies Down South
Youth Worker Project 2008
72
Schoolies Down South Youth Worker Project
Service Agreement
This Service Agreement is between the Parties:
Surf Coast Shire (SCS)
and
the Youth Substance Abuse Service (YSAS)
1. Program Objectives
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
To provide support and advocacy to young people participating in Schoolies
celebrations in Lorne and Torquay during the target period (Friday 21st Nov –
Friday 5th Dec 2008 inclusive).
To respond to the needs of young people at risk via identified referral pathways.
To promote harm reduction and infection control strategies amongst young people
attending Schoolies celebrations.
To interface with community members and local businesses in order to promote
and foster positive relationships with School Leavers.
2. Roles and Relationships
2.1
Key Responsibilities of Youth Workers
2.1.1 Provision of access, support and referral pathways to young people during the
negotiated times.
2.1.2 Provision of information and appropriate materials to young people to minimise health
and safety risks.
2.1.3 Consultation and collaboration with SCS staff on day to day program operational
issues.
2.1.4 Participation in planning and debriefing processes.
2.1.5 Work in partnership with other key stakeholder organisations in the Schoolies Down
South program.
2.1.6 Male and female worker in a team where possible.
2.1.7 Youth workers are accountable to normal YSAS management lines.
2.1.8 Youth workers should direct media personnel to the YSAS Schoolies Program
manager for all YSAS related issues. On other media issues, Youth Workers should
direct media to the agreed spokesperson as outlined in the Schoolies Media and
Communication Strategy.
2.1.9 Provision of support and referral pathways to Hotel Chaplaincy (Red Frog) and
“Student Life” volunteers as required.
2.1.10 Interface with the community on a regular basis and provide feedback to SCS staff.
2.2
YSAS Roles
2.2.1 Recruitment of Youth Workers for Schoolies role from YSAS employee pool.
2.2.2 Youth Workers will be employed by YSAS.
2.2.3 Provision of policy, process and HR functions and training for Youth Workers.
2.2.4 Provision of On-Call support for Youth Workers over the Schoolies Period.
2.2.5 Development and implementation of position descriptions for Youth Workers.
2.2.6 YSAS will undertake responsibility for Work Cover issues for all Youth Workers
involved in the Schoolies program.
73
2.2.7
2.2.8
2.3
Ensure all Youth Workers have current Level 2 First Aid qualifications and satisfactory
Criminal Records and WWC Checks.
YSAS will provide basic training in AOD and youth issues for Red Frog Volunteers and
other stakeholders if requested.
Surf Coast Shire Roles
2.3.1 Co-ordinate Schoolies Down South at local level through partnerships and
collaborations.
2.3.2 Strategy and Policy Development.
2.3.3 In conjunction with YSAS, organise planning and training sessions for youth workers
and volunteers prior to schoolies. This will include briefing on media protocol, roles
and responsibilities of partner agencies and facilitating communications strategy.
2.3.4 In conjunction with YSAS, facilitate catch-ups and communication during the
Schoolies Period, and de-briefing sessions following the Schoolies Period.
2.3.5 SCS to provide water, pamphlets, first aid and harm reduction supplies.
2.3.6 SCS to provide t-shirts/jackets and lanyards to assist with identification of youth
workers. All items to include both YSAS and SCS logos.
3. Operational Issues
3.1
Tasks, locations and target numbers
3.1.1 Youth workers will be employed to cover the appropriate areas in Torquay and in
Lorne.
3.1.2 2 workers per shift in Torquay, and 4-5 workers per shift in Lorne.
3.1.3 The areas and times to be covered on each shift are at the discretion of the youth
workers, in consultation with YSAS management, Surf Coast Shire staff and other
partnership agencies.
3.2
Days, Times and Hours
3.2.1 LORNE :
x 4-5 workers will be working from Friday 21st November Friday 5th December
inclusive.
x Shifts times will be negotiated according to need but will focus on the hours
between 8pm and 4am.
3.2.2 TORQUAY :
x 2 workers will be working from Friday 21st November – Friday 5th December
inclusive.
x Shift times will be negotiated according to need but will focus on the hours
between 9pm and 2am.
3.3
Accommodation and food expenses
3.3.1 Accommodation has been confirmed in both locations and will be brokered through
Great Ocean Road Real Estate in Lorne and the Jan Juc Holiday Villas in Jan Juc.
3.3.2 Youth Workers will be provided with a per diem rate as per YSAS Policy.
3.3.3 Youth Workers will be provided with a limited amount of petty cash to cover basic
program expenses such as additional first aid supplies.
3.4
On-call system
3.4.1 YSAS to provide on call system for Youth Workers during the Schoolies Period.
3.4.2 Youth Workers will have the capacity to provide follow-up support at each location.
This will be managed at the workers’ discretion.
3.5
Phones
74
3.5.1
3.5.2
3.5.3
3.6
YSAS to provide one mobile phone per team (3 phones for Lorne and 1 for Torquay).
Phone numbers will be printed on Schoolies information pamphlets and are as follows:
Lorne Mobile One: 0428 194 227; Lorne Mobile Two: 0428 187 205, Torquay Mobile
One: 0437 019 778.
SCS to provide 2 walkie talkies for use in Lorne to aid communication between Youth
Worker pairs.
Reporting process (Documentation and stats)
3.6.1 YSAS Youth Workers will keep a log of all contacts with young people during the
Schoolies Period and will use people counters to try and determine numbers of young
people.
3.6.2 Documented contacts will be used to categorise contact need and evaluate the
program and its future needs. This process will occur at the debriefing following
Schoolies
3.6.3 Any critical incident that Youth Workers attend or are involved in will be documented
and reported via normal YSAS incident procedures. SCS will be notified of any critical
incidents.
3.6.4 At the end of each evening, each team will compile a shift summary report.
4. Operational Issues
4.1
Invoices and Payment
4.1.1 Invoice for Youth Worker Project will be forwarded by YSAS to Surf Coast Shire no
later than 31st December 2008.
4.1.2 Surf Coast Shire will ensure payment of this invoice by no later than 31st January
2008.
75
4.2
Budget
4.2.1
Projected Budget
LORNE
Outreach Hours inc BBQs
Orientation
Debrief
TOTAL
hours
7.5
7-9
3
days
15
1
1
no. wkrs
4-5
11
11
TOTAL
564.5
89
33
686.5
TORQUAY
Outreach Hours inc BBQs
Orientation
Debrief
TOTAL
hours/night
5
7-9
3
days
15
1
1
no. wkrs
2
3
3
TOTAL
158
27
9
194
TOTAL STAFF HOURS (880.5 hrs @$25.75 per hour inc on-costs)
On Call Allowance (15 nights)
Management fee
Phones (3) and vehicles
Staff Accommodation (Lorne and Torquay)
Petty Cash
First Aid Kits
Orientation Lunch
Per Diem Costs
$22,672.90
$974.00
$1,000.00
$1,500.00
$5,820.00
$300.00
$300.00
$100.00
$4,800.00
Sub total
GST
TOTAL COST FOR YOUTH WORKER PROJECT
$37,185.00
$3,718.50
$40,903.50
This total cost includes ideal number of hours for service delivery to Torquay and Lorne.
SCS will direct the grant from Office of Youth (DPCD) for $30,000 to YSAS.
76
5. Agreement
5.1
This Service Agreement is agreed to by the parties, Surf Coast Shire and the Youth
Substance Abuse Service.
5.2
Surf Coast Shire
PO Box 350
Torquay,
VICTORIA
3228
...............................................................................................................................
Manager
Community Services
Surf Coast Shire
...............................................................................................................................
Dennis Barker
Director Sustainable Communities
Surf Coast Shire
5.3
Level 1, 131 Johnston Street
PO Box 2950
Fitzroy Victoria 3065
...............................................................................................................................
Rose Salvo
Project Manager
Schoolies Down South Youth Worker Program
...............................................................................................................................
Peter Wearne
Director
North-West Area
77
7.5
Appendix 5. Colour Coded Wristband Form (example)
78
7.6
Appendix 6. Examples of Media and Correspondence
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
7.7
Appendix 7. Lorne and Torquay Info Sheets (for School Leavers)
90
7.8
Appendix 8. Community Fact Sheet
91
92
7.97
Appendix 7.9
Accommodation Providers Fact Sheets
93
94
95
96
7.10
Appendix 10. Registration Forms – Data Analysis
SCHOOLIES WEEK QUESTIONNAIRE RESULTS 2008
NUMBER OF SURVEYS COMPLETED - Approximately 360
WHERE DID YOU STAY?
Lorne
Torquay
Aireys, Anglesea & surrounding places
MALE & FEMALE?
Female
Male
WHEN DID YOU BOOK?
Late last year
Term 1
Term 2
Term 3
October & November
When they arrived
HOW DID YOU BOOK?
Friends did it
Used Internet/Email
Used Phone
On Arival at reception
AGE?
17
18
19
20
340
14
6
360
94%
4%
2%
Most surveys were completed in Lorne,
only a few in Torquay.
186
154
340
55%
45%
About half and half.
38
158
40
28
14
5
283
13%
56%
14%
10%
5%
2%
Majority booked in March, some even did it
on the day they arrived!
26
78
171
5
280
9%
28%
61%
2%
Majority used the phone to make
their booking.
44
282
13
2
13%
83%
4%
1%
Majority of school leavers were aged 18.
WHAT TYPE OF SCHOOLING HAVE YOU JUST COMPLETED?
VCE
High School
Secondary
Year 12
Other, e.g. Cert IV
159
33
35
109
1
341
Most school leavers had finished doing
their
VCE in Year 12, but it was described in a
variety of ways, one also came from TAFE!
WHAT SCHOOL DID YOU ATTEND?
Nearly 70 schools were listed with larger numbers coming from (listed in distance travelled)…
Kms No
Gippsland Grammar, Sale
274
10
3%
Catholic College Bendigo
201
15
4%
Tintern Girls Grammar, Ringwood East
138
22
6%
Eltham High School
137
18
5%
Whitefriars Catholic College, Donvale
136
10
3%
Blackburn High School
130
17
5%
97
Sunbury College, Sunbury
Loreto College, Ballarat
Hoppers Crossing Secondary School
Western Heights College, Hamlyn Heights
126
110
96
57
11
13
10
11
3%
4%
3%
3%
345
WHAT MODE OF TRANSPORT DID YOU USE TO GET TO SCHOOLIES?
Bus/train
58
17%
Car
258
76%
Car - Parents
7
2%
Drove themselves
15
4%
338
WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS DURING SCHOOLIES?
Beach
29
7%
Drinking
38
9%
Exercise - bushwalking, horseriding
4
1%
General holidaying
15
4%
Have a good time, relax, meet people
225
55%
Partying
26
6%
Schoolies Celebrations
27
7%
Sex
6
1%
Shopping
11
3%
Sleeping
9
2%
Sunbathing
11
3%
Swimming/Surfing
11
3%
412
Majority of school leavers arrived by car,
mostly with others or their parents driving
them.
Most school leavers were keen to just
let their hair down relaxing with their
friends, chilling out!
FOLLOWING QUESTIONS WERE ASKED AS STUDENTS CHECKED OUT BUT ONLY TWO THIRDS RESPONDED
DID YOU ENJOY YOUR STAY?
Yes
No
WAS YOUR STAY HOW YOU EXPECTED IT TO BE?
Yes
No
WAS YOUR STAY BETTER THAN YOU EXPECTED?
Yes
No
218
1
219
100%
0%
An almost unanimous positive response!
170
59
229
74%
26%
Responses varied, and was slightly
misguiding as a negative response could
mean it was better!
172
74% Fortunately!
62
26%
234
WHY DID YOU CONSIDER YOUR STAY BETTER THAN YOU'D EXPECTED?
Clean rooms
16
13% Only half the responsdents were specific
Enjoyed the fun people I met
30
25% as to why their stay was better than
Environment
7
6% expected, but for those that did, it was
Gambling
2
2% the friendships they made that stood out
Girls/Boys/People
28
23% most.
Just how I expected
6
5%
Location was great
12
10%
Lots of fun
8
7%
98
No outsiders in accommodation
Peaceful
Room, restaurant & TV
Sex
1
1%
5
4%
1
1%
4
3%
120
WHAT DID YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOY ABOUT YOUR STAY?
Accommodation and owners
58
25% Many people were really pleased with their
Always felt safe, people were friendly
17
7% accommodation and the way they were
Beach
9
4% treated!
Bond
1
0%
Boys/girls
3
1% Red Frogs were a resounding success,
Club - esp free entry
2
1% some even wishing they could have
Drinking
10
4% stayed longer!
Feeling safe / being independent
12
5%
Free Bus
7
3%
Friends & meeting new friends
32
14%
Having a good time/partying
9
4%
Having fun at the foreshore
3
1%
Location
33
14%
Pancake breakfast
6
3%
Red Frogs
20
8%
Relaxing
14
6%
236
WHAT DID YOU PARTICULARLY NOT ENJOY ABOUT YOUR STAY?
Accom - Fridge didn't work
4
2% Many complaints about the disappointing
Accom - Lack of facilities/equipment
9
5% weather!
Accom - Lack of security
3
2%
Accom - No breakfast
2
1% Hill-climbing obviously doesn't suit
Accom - No cooking facilities
3
2% everyone staying in Lorne!
Accom - No maintenance man
6
3%
Additonal costs / high prices
10
5% Often the shuttle bus didn't go close
BBQ - didn't hear about it
3
2% enough to their accommodation.
Bus - Red Frogs dropped us in the middle of nowhere
2
1%
Cleaning up
6
3% Others wished there had been more
Distance from town/unreliable taxi service
34
18% entertainment, especially late in the
Expensive
4
2% evening.
Lack of activities
16
8%
Lack of sleep / blinds not keeping light out
18
9%
Lost things
5
3%
No nightclub
2
1%
No under age entertainment
20
10%
Only one place to go out
1
1%
Pub dress code
1
1%
Ratio boys to girls or vice versa
3
2%
Silly people
4
2%
Toolies
4
2%
Weather (bad)
33
17%
193
GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO HELP ORGANISE SCHOOLIES 2009 WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
Beach entertainment/live music on beach
82
39% While the majority thought Schoolies
Better accommodation
4
2% was an awesome experience, there
Bus route
6
3% was a resounding call for more
Cheaper prices
3
1% entertainment and activities, especially
99
Food events (e.g. sausage fest, esp free food)
Free events to attend
Get info to people before they are here
Glass on foreshore needs reducing
Keep pub & other venues open later
More events - sports, games & parties, plus at night
time
More interactive programs
More live bands
More trust on the schoolies/treated like a child
No lebanese as cause trouble
Non religious volunteer groups/less clicky
Red Frogs - keep them but make them travel further
out of town
Safe house needs to be available
Under age events
Wristbands for under age
4
15
3
1
10
2%
7%
1%
0%
5%
35
5
9
5
4
1
17%
2%
4%
2%
2%
0%
1
1
19
2
210
0%
0%
9%
1%
on the foreshore.
DID YOU USE THE SHUTTLE BUSES?
Yes
No
105
123
Half and half, for a variety of reasons.
DID YOU ATTEND THE FREE BBQ?
Yes
No
56
170
There was some complaints they didn't
know about the BBQ.
DID YOU LIKE THE USE OF WRISTBANDS?
Yes
171
Mostly Schoolies were quite happy with
them, although there were a few
complaints!
No
60
DID YOU FEEL SAFE DURING YOUR STAY?
Yes
No
207
9
OTHER COMMENTS INCLUDED…
Didn’t see free shuttle bus in Torquay.
Could have done with more frequent shuttles.
Too much scrutiny.
Would love more free water to be available.
100
Fortunately most did.
Reports from Agencies
1. Police
- Crime & Noise report
Welcome and apologies
101
Bill Mathers (Lorne)
x Numbers down from last year 700-1000 people plus weather colder kept young people off foreshore
Introductions by Facilitators Helen Reddan & Lisa Armstrong-Rowe (COGG)
Round table introductions.
Discussion
Woon Ooi (Red Frogs); Rod Sheppard; Dee Stewart (LBTA); Juliet English (Accom Provider); Peter Wearne (YSAS); Dennis Barker & Mark Davies
(Surf Coast Shire); Bernie Malone (AV)
Apologies:
Agenda Items
Jackie Hetherington (SCS), Luke Gibson (SCS), Ian Waugh (SCS), Katie Jenner (SCS Communications), Jon Breedveld (SCS Communications), Jim
Lawson (SCS Events), Chad Foulkes (SCS Community Development); David Muir (Torquay Accommodation Centre); Vivienne Brown (Office For
Youth); Mark Gellie Nick Foord, Ben Holloway & Jared Hancock Red Frogs), Chris Tully (Accomm & LBTA); Bill Matthews (Lorne Police); Brian
McKiterick (Torquay Police); Gary Coombes (Vic Police Geelong); Nigel Morrison (Surf Coast TMU); John Blundell (An Ocean Vista Accom); Rose
Salvo, Danae Squires & Arry Valastro (YSAS); Rod Goring & Richard Davies (GORCC); Brooke Lunny (SCS Tourism); Heather Ramp (Lorne
Community Health); Mike Shepski (Student Life); Lisa Armstrong-Rowe & Helen Reddan (COGG); Andrew Routley (Torquay Hotel); Trent Smith
(Lorne Hotel); Michael Parker (headspace Barwon).
Stakeholder Debrief
10:00 – 12:00pm Thursday 11th December, Council Chambers – TORQUAY
(Followed by lunch)
Appendix 11. Stakeholder Debrief Minutes
Present:
7.11
2.
Agenda Items
Incidents
Surf Coast Shire – Youth
Development
- Wristbands
- Complaints
- Glass
- Signage
-
102
x Thanks to everyone for all work undertaken.
x Less complaints to Shire, mostly in Torquay.
x Wristbands much positive feedback from accommodation providers and Schoolies (could identify each other), need to review
for next year and make available to more accommodation providers, maybe check in online would help;
x Extra security and rubbish collection greatly assisted;
x Two Friday nights busy although work by police (high visibility including use of horses and hummers, & traffic blitz), hotels &
YSAS helped tremendously and it was a particular group causing troubles
x Didn’t help that media blew out of proportion which people tend to believe
x 46 offences reported – 7 assaults, 12 wilful damage, charged 4 people with discharging missiles (stubbies at police + eggs),
one charged with possessing fireworks as some people injured, stats comparable with last year. No significant reports of
damage, 29 noisy parties, only one ticket given out; 72 penalty notices e.g. sleeping in cars; charged 11 offenders with
criminal & street offences, 26 penalties for traffic and sundry issues; Corio traffic unit came down on daily basis and helped
overnight a couple of times.
x Great initiative that GORCC & SCS arranged a contractor to clear foreshore early.
x Lighting sufficient on boardwalk.
x Next year need to target both weekends, can’t rely on one weekend being heavier than other
Brian McKiterick (Torquay)
x Different area as more spread out. Similar numbers and offences as last year.
x Main offences fires on beach often damaging trees on foreshore, glass on foreshore (used new glass by-laws), noisy houses
and parties – at least ten each night, often next to local residents.
x Only one penalty notice for noisy party, otherwise OK. Different groups each week therefore had to repeat education process.
13 wilful damage, although non-Schoolies (locals) main perpetrators. Number plates stolen. Six drunks arrested.
x Great initiatives by Torquay Hotel reduced issues especially fake IDs, although pushed young people to supermarket &
beach instead. Hummer good PR tool which gave good rapport with young people. Good rapport with youth workers.
x Next year – maybe look at light entertainment near beach area would diffuse trouble if something to do. Rewards for returning
glass bottles might assist. Would be better to have more foot patrols, but staffing issue. Maybe cleanups would help as in
Lorne.
x Traffic update – 3 cars at Lorne 22nd and 29th working 10 hour shifts 6pm to 4am – most clients were toolies; mainly more
behavioural notices; Toolies from outside area caused problems especially defect notices; 43 traffic offences.
x Schoolies very respectful and well-behaved. State taskforce roadworthy mechanics also found issues with toolies’ vehicles.
Discussion
3.
Agenda Items
Funding/Resources
Buses
YSAS
- Water
- Incidents
- Numbers of school
leavers
-
TAC grant which provided extra resources was only one-off therefore a concern for next year.
Extra police was great, particularly in Lorne.
BBQs worked well on Lorne foreshore, and particularly in Torquay – need better signage next year.
2 week period – difficulties when breaks in program, plus some bookings in third week.
VMS boards great initiative. Media coverage slightly more positive, except Herald Sun. Campaign in Addy – booklet and Just
Think Campaign was god
Glass major concern still especially in streets.
Buses worked well although may have been overcrowded, plus need strategy to assist with bottle rubbish. No kids attended
GORCC cleanup, maybe need to revisit next year e.g. with BBQs.
Advocacy need to align with community better, especially re getting more funding. Maybe have community approach re
events and event management. May need early meeting next year to brainstorm events.
SWISC debrief on Monday 15th.
Look after mates message worked well.
Reports and stats to Jackie ASAP for report please.
Draft of meetings for next year available.
The group commended Jackie on great work undertaken this year.
103
Lorne
x 5 youth workers, increase on last year – two teams with roving team leader.
x Over 4K contacts with young people, increase on last year.
x Shift summaries showed significant increase in elicit substance abuse (ecstasy, cannabis and amphetamine – multi
substance abuse) caused changes in behaviour.
x First aid response significantly reduced.
x Mobile phone contact increased, worked on relationship with other stakeholders especially team leaders.
x Redistributed resources, plus police presence great assisted – preventative and inter-active. Water – much distributed. Hotel
strategies greatly helped. Security great and worked well with youth workers – information exchange. Health clinic worked
well. Safety messages seemed to have been received well by young people. Chill out zone and drop-in centres worked really
well. Could do with having Red Frogs in first week.
x Ari – staff at hospital, ambulance and police were fantastic – great communication. Young people appeared quieter and more
grateful. Only responded to one incident – young people on their own. Next year accommodation providers had severe
incidents at their businesses – maybe could provide accommodation providers with extra support especially coping with
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Discussion
Red Cross
- Numbers
- Timing
- Young people of
enquiries
5. Great Ocean Road Coast
Committee
- General Management
- Security
- Rubbish Collection
- Lighting
- Glass
- Safety Concerns
- Water Barriers
6. Red Frogs
- Buses
- BBQs
4.
Agenda Items
Discussion
104
x Great cooperation and partnerships assisted 100 volunteers in Lorne and Torquay. Chill out zone in Lorne really helps, plus
1300 number assisted.
x Greatest challenge Schoolies/toolies/locals, plus would like to consolidate into one week.
x Lorne – 9 nights operated. Atmosphere changed for worse when different groups came down on Fridays.
x Next year – need more entertainment nights, to avoid boredom and assists if weather not too good. How to get message to
community that Schoolies not being promoted but rather managed.
x Torquay – police presence greatly assisted, although could do with more foot patrols. Increase in drug affected Schoolies.
x Next year – issue over bus with Schoolies’ stickers & mix of Schoolies and other patrons during the 2nd week. Maybe have
Torquay
x More issues this year with Schoolies in private homes. Very little vandalism, apart from Cosy Corner and Bell Street. A few
pages but fairly minor.
x Toilets had to be locked when became an issue.
x Would prefer greater police presence, on foot patrols. Issues easier to manage in Torquay as numbers lower.
Lorne
x Less Schoolies, paid security assisted but was it worth the value as compared to cost of police presence.
trauma of incidents.
Torquay
x Much busier this year. 1700 contacts with two youth workers. Easier second week with Red Frogs. Phone numbers worked
well – much easier to manage young people. Relationships with police much improved but could do with greater police
presence. Need to reconsider how Torquay is serviced as such a large area and must work in pubs, next year will be extra
hotel to cope with, especially need foot patrols as need interaction with young people. Re glass issues may need to target
parents more. This will be taken up by binge drinking program initiatives, plus state-wide approach through SWISC.
x Scanners – because young people had to line up and queue YSAS utilized situation to interact more with them and hand out
more water.
x Apologies – no report. Red Cross to circulate.
Lorne Hospital
- Numbers
- Issues
- Health needs
10. CFA
- Fires on beaches
9.
Munday Group
x Lorne Hotel
x Torquay Hotel
- Buses
- ID Scanners
- RSA Officers
8. Accommodation
Providers
7.
Agenda Items
Discussion
105
Gerry Verdoorn (report provided prior to meeting) :
x There was little impact of Schoolies on CFA Torquay. While there were a number of incidents involving fire, they were minor
and Police/Security dealt with some.
x Only really two instances where the brigade was called during the period. One was 3 times in one evening and they were
pretty close together time-wise, one individual (group probably) involved fire on the foreshore/beach and the other a house
fire as the result of a bin having been lit that may or may not be attributable to Schoolies.
x Overall the impact for CFA was minor for this year.
x Accommodation Code of Practice needs looking at, so that consistent across the board.
x Medical practice extremely busy as in the past. Urgent care at hospital much busier with more intense issues, level of
intoxication with alcohol plus combination of other substances, bringing out anger, anxiety and panic situations.
x Flowchart for emergency care needs to be designed, and be less complicated as would be more useful.
x Need to cost in providing urgent care services and cost of materials/health care – big drain on hospital resources.
x Health needs were various but were to be expected – physical, mental, sexual.
x Young people appreciative of all supports available.
x Torquay (David Muir) not present to report)
x Lorne – no real issues, problems with exaggerated media coverage. Some bonds were withheld as property damaged – civil
issue.
x Accommodation providers at times receive much flack as receiving dollars, whereas they are doing their very best towards
harm minimization. Maybe working group can look at strategies at getting better engagement with local real estate agents
and private rentals which is a hard group to work with.
x Lorne Hotel – end of night always an issue, although Looking after Your Mate program really assisted.
x Torquay Hotel – first week slightly under-resourced in terms of youth workers and buses. Great response to RSA person.
Would be good to write up success of extra initiatives for other local venues, plus will receive coverage in The Grapevine
(hotel newsletter). Extra training to be provided by Binge Drinking initiative.
increased route to include Sands. Headrests might need to be removed as were being stolen. Maybe get more lighting on
foreshore? Registration forms – one accommodation provider thought were too invasive? Could do with more water next year
(4 or 5 pallets).
Agenda Items
15. Surf Coast Shire
Communications
- Media Report
- Community
Information
13. headspace Barwon
- Numbers
- young people of
intervention
14. Student Life
- Drop in Centre
- Activities
11. Surf Coast Shire –
Tourism
- Wristbands
- Accommodation
Code of Practice
12. Lorne Business &
Tourism Traders
Great relationships with other services.
Droppo had quite a few kids coming through.
Issues for next year – hours open, maybe till 2am and have open over weekends
Had trouble finding good venue – need to convey message that doesn’t cause trouble having venue.
x
x
x
x
106
x Before Schoolies many warning messages, during Schoolies some negative messages which included Gold Coast issues,
and prices of drinks! Much negative media to do with John Hucker issues, although could be construed as positive message
as made people think about taking care of mates and what can happen. Maybe worth inviting him, or bringing issues up next
year – although family may not want more media attention? – two edged sword. Police have finger-waiving media strategy.
Thanks to Katie (university student) for her work during Schoolies.
x Ongoing issues – Council has issue of alignment, strong feeling that Council promotes Schoolies as an event – need to
convey clearly management role. Need to articulate that support residents and don’t support any negative outcomes.
x TAC funding only one-off – essential Council recognize cost of Schoolies period.
x Need to work with Melbourne media to avoid negative messages, although some good reports. Need to get rapport with
reporters who keep changing. Need to view Schoolies as just another group of visits, but Council and working group has duty
of care as dealing with young people. Sunday Morning Herald different to daily Herald. Addy doing much work with drink-
Apology
Will do mailout to all members re Schoolies and holding meeting Feb 09.
Any grumbles coming from people not directly involved in LBTA.
Currently pretty balanced.
Great if clean-up could be increased to arterial roads used by Schoolies coming to and from accommodation providers.
Communication with young people really helps out.
Only there first week, much information sharing occurred. Maybe need more resources available in terms of staff next year.
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x Wristbands and registrations great initiative, although management of them needs looking at, plus would assist if all
Schoolies should be registered, needs cooperation from wide field of accommodation providers.
Discussion
Issues and strategy reports
x Summary of issues &
Concerns of the working
group
x What needs to improve
16. Office for Youth
Agenda Items
Discussion
SWISC meet on bimonthly basis with many different partakers.
Quite substantial planning day – need to strategically align Schoolies with different areas of government to increase funding.
Have new members on SWISC this year to affect strategic approach.
Need to identify key activities e.g. working with Department of Education (who consulted young people regarding message to
put out) – previously had Z card.
Plus working with Drug & Alcohol – working with year 10 not just on ad hoc basis rather broadly integrated into education
program directed at teachers and programs.
Everything is long term approach to affect change particularly cultural issues, looking at broader issues, not just Schoolies
Need to be on agenda as government discusses alcohol issues. Parent information brochure needs to amended to deal
affectively with young people. Need to have much more strategic use of resources, particularly to support local communities,
using monies coming from binge drinking initiative.
Need to seek out ways to get more funds. Research required which takes extra resources, brief being developed by drug &
alcohol section – looking for flagship event.
Need more facts and data when lobbying for extra funds – economic benefits, as cold hard statistical information essential.
107
Issues to be addressed:
x Cosy Corner
x Glass
x Increase water
x Wristbands – many ideas to be developed
x Drug issue
x Chill-out zone for Torquay
x Need to better engage and work with communities to manage Schoolies period
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
wise. Need to remember that binge drinking wider issue than just Schoolies, need to promote initiatives being taken by SWG
– positive message, rather than just dealing/responding to negative stuff. Difficulty is that media just don’t respond to our
requests for positive slant – needs to be documented, that even though SWG devising great initiatives and need to be
acknowledge as doing so. Difficulty is that media always looking for negative rather than positive spin.
x Maybe can use local media to put out positive messages – would get message across to local people, even though restricted.
x Question asked whether there is an evaluation – prepared by end of Feb 09.
18. SWG 2009 –
membership and
meetings
Development and Themes
17. Themes from 2007 Debrief
What worked well
Summary of achievements
and what needs to continue
Agenda Items
Notice boards around town
Firm dates for Schoolies Period
Improvements to the Media Strategy in form of a Communication Strategy
Community Engagement – improve information process
Improve data collection
Review Terms of Reference
Revisit Health Clinic in Lorne
Wristbands
Extra security
Hotel initiatives – scanners and employment of RSA personnel
Extra police presence
Extra cleanups
Extra water
Save a mate program
Health procedures/flowchart
Communication between stakeholders
Extra funding – TAC grant
VMS boards
Need to accept that will never be able to keep everyone happy
Police presence
Buses – over filling and rubbish
108
x Calendar of meetings tabled, to be distributed with the minutes also.
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Discussion
Welcome and apologies
Reports from Agencies
19. Business Arising:
Welcome
20. Introductions
Agenda Items
109
Lisa Armstrong-Rowe welcomed everyone and explained the purpose of the meeting.
Stakeholder meeting this morning Lorne Tomorrow
Introductions by Facilitators Helen Reddan & Lisa Armstrong-Rowe
Discussion
Apologies: Mark Gellie (Red Frogs), Bill Matthews (Lorne Police), Dee Stewart (LBTA)
Present: Jackie Hetherington (SCS), Ian Waugh (SCS), Helen Reddan (COGG), Lisa Armstrong-Rowe (COGG)
John Forbes (Resident), Sue O’Shanassy (Resident), Rose Salvo (YSAS), Sarah Lawrence (Surf Coast Times), Brian McKitterick (Police)
Tim Kotten (Wattel Court Retreat), Richard Davies (GORCC), Andrew Routley (Torquay Hotel), Rick Munday (Munday Group), Nick
Cogger (Munday group)
Community Debrief
th
2:30pm – 3:30pm Thursday 11 December 2008, Council Chambers - TORQUAY
TORQUAY
7.12 Appendix 12. Community Debrief Minutes
21. Overview of Schoolies
Working Group (SWG)
de-brief
110
Rosa Salvo – From Youth Substance Abuse Service (YSAS) advised that they employed 2 youth offices trained
in drug & alcohol & first aid their primary role to educate young people about harm minimisation practises with
provision of water, condoms advice etc.
Respect community and themselves was the consistent message echoed.
Numbers of schoolies increased in Torquay this has stretched the two workers this is to be re-assessed next
year.
Lisa gave the group an overview of the Torquay debrief held today
x 30 people in attendance numerous agencies represented
x Overview of last 2 weeks (2.5 hour meeting)
Jackie gave an overview of the Torquay Schoolies debrief summary follows:
x Greater numbers in the 1st week of schoolies as opposed to the 2nd week.
x Services worked well
Jackie explained to resident representative that Surf Coast Shire meet once a month to manage
Complaints were down compared to last year, more complaints were from Torquay than Lorne this year most
were in reference to glass, police not responding to call outs and general disrespect.
x Wrist bands seen as successful
x TAC funding of $20,000 for this year was highly valued & resource concern as this funding will not be
available next year
x 2 week harm minimization program some resources are only available for 1 week – i.e. Red Frog
volunteers.
x Hotel RSA no shots, no glass, chill out zone was very successful.
x Police presence heightened and easy to work with good rapport with the young people
x The message for young people looking after mates was also successful
x Media coverage –positive better coverage this year with less t.v. coverage and quite positive coverage.
x There were a couple of incorrect, sensationalist articles
x Glass major concern especially on streets.
x Buses worked really well with one extra bus due to the TAC grant.
x Jackie reiterated that the working group will continue to advocate to State & Federal government to gain
funding and further resources with the community
Thanked representatives for attendance & representation from Sarah with Surf Coast Times.
22. General Discussion
111
Tim
Small accommodation provider
Licensing problems with underage patrons together
Under 18’s not allowed to drink on premises voluntary code of conduct
Richard GORCC representation for Rod Goring
Advised that fires, damage of assets were issues however no increase in damage from previous years.
Brian advised residents at the de-brief meeting that Lorne has 5 discreet parks however Torquay has no capacity
to open the whole park to schoolies. Do not have the capacity to manage Torquay, security & fencing issues.
Andrew Routley spoke of Geelong liquor licensing about what there expectations were
I.D. scanner great result definitely lower no’s of fake i.d.
RSA attendants staff dressed in lime vests to mingle, identify potential dangerous patrons, bus them home
Safe measures to look after the patron. Will continue in January
Increase in patronage.
Serving No shots positive
Brian McKiterick - representing the Police
Police crime numbers similar even though increase in no. of schoolies
Most problems were fires on beach, glass on foreshore, this led to increased penalty notices
Brian did advise an increase in noisy parties impacting on permanent residents.
Community perception that safety jeopardized due to increased no’s of schoolies however in reality was just
increase in pedestrian traffic, no increase in danger.
Brian felt Police no’s was adequate however maybe more foot patrols could be examined for the future.
x Cosy Corner concentrated areas
x Hotel along Bell St to Esplanade
x Schoolies getting home.
Reward system
Mobile police facility on beach or foreshore seen to be a good resource and tool.
By-laws and police need to co-ordinate better especially in afternoon
Agencies local government Lorne & Torquay Hotel worked well.
Weather restrictions
112
Event Management residents feel nothing to do but drink.
Instilling messages of respect community, look after your mates
Website is a tool to get important information to young people, not promoted.
Sue O’Shanassy spoke of the emotive challenges felt by residents. Sue feels that Schoolies is promoted by Surf
Coast Shire.
Jackie advised that Surf Coast Shire manages Schoolies it is not promoting Schoolies.
John spoke of crackers going off at 2:00 a.m:
Nudity;
Loud noise;
Parties;
Police issued ;
No respect for neighboring residents;
Townhouse had 16 people in accommodation – over accommodation. (Spoke to Manager who spoke to
“Schoolies”).
Police restricted in capacity to combat party noise. Therefore noise levels cannot be
Managed.
Townhouse not fully managed by same person.
Why should residents have to put up with noise felt Schoolies have NO RESPECT for permanent residents
(See attached comments)
John Forbes spoke on behalf of older ladies residents of Torquay he voiced concern at night time when
schoolies going home
Ladies are truly scared, rubbish being tipped over, find it very stressful, tiring,
Surf Coast Shire to be mindful of older generation
Patrons have to be 18!
113
RED Frogs hotel chaplaincy agency for 2nd week volunteers
1300 water, spend time to get people of the street,
Drive buses ideally set up to diffuse noisy situations
“Party Crashers”
No legal means to compel home owner to advise Surf Coast Shire that are rental
Problem residential properties rented out causing the problems due to overcrowding
Strategy – code of behaviour how do we identify the trouble accommodation providers
suggestion was made to put information flyer in with rate notice.
Strategy – wristband no wristband no accommodation
Should be conditional to enter accommodation places
Colour coded how can we police that?
Strategy – open Torquay Caravan Park
Strategy restrict no’s, over crowding on private accommodation places CODE OF PRACTISE
Strategy would be for resident to call police ASAP.
Resident felt not compelled to ring police not wishing to sound like ogre.
Trespassing was an issue as schoolies dumped their bottles on private landowner’s property and or bins.
Sue felt there was NO RESPECT residents too frightened to speak to Schoolies
Residents felt the worst year ever
Christmas, New Year & Schoolies worst time for residents.
Timing of meeting felt restricted the no.of concerned residents who could attend.
How was the meeting advertised Jackie advised in paper, flyers. Also some residents have called and spoke
about their concerns.
24. Where to from here?
23. Summary
114
Strategy is to increase informal approach to property owners, agents possible providing an information sheet with
a code of practice.
Responsibility of the private home owner – need to communicate with them. Maybe send information via the
rates to all postcodes that are not 3228
Ian Waugh reintegrated the concern that Surf Coast Shire has for residents.
Surf Coast Shire just as concerned as resident and Schoolies Working Group is doing the best to help minimize
risk to all.
How do we best approach groups of Schoolies breach of peace should be police ??? Surf Coast Shire has no
Community debrief in Lorne Friday
Glass still a problem
How do you manage underage drinking and older friends purchasing for them?
Problems exist when schoolies are going home.
Tim Kotten mentioned the health issues with overcrowding of private residences rented out seek advice from the
Health Department.
The caravan parks can accommodate 250 schoolies within there 80 sites, security guards, fencing and 2:00 a.m.
curfew help manage Lorne Schoolies sign commitment paper $500 bond, control
Richard advised the working group what happens in Lorne with Schoolies
Jackie advised that feedback she had that the young people were engaged, more respectful especially in Lorne.
Residents did not feel that was the case no respect at all.
RESPECT the permanent resident
Why even come down is it all about getting DRUNK.
Greater enforcement of the by-laws over the Schoolies Period
Greater Police visibility
Increased communication with the community
Rubbish and vandalism
2007 outcomes
115
Lisa Armstrong-Rowe thanked everyone for there attendance
25. Close
Create a code of behaviour to be sent out with rate notice.
Residents to make Working Group aware of trouble areas.
Discussion took place on the liability of real estate agents and their breach of appropriate leasing arrangement
10am – 11am Friday 12th December 2008, Fig Tree Community Centre - LORNE
Schoolies Working Group – Community Debrief
29. General
Welcome and
apologies
Reports from
Agencies
26. Business Arising:
Welcome
27. Introductions
28. Overview of
Schoolies
Working Group
(SWG) de-brief
Agenda Items
116
Issue – Trouble-makers – preventing Toolies coming into Lorne
Police – Bill Matthews explained can divide two weeks into two separate periods, different people, many toolies 17-19 year olds, others were
schoolies very well behaved. 30 people in group spoilt on Friday nights. Article re Lorne re ‘Police Pelted’ was inaccurate – 9 police that night,
no bottles thrown, no mention of what riot was about, gives poor perception of Schoolies. Only 7 incidents of assaults – mostly over short period
on Friday nights and Saturday. Bigger police contingent this year, plus new processes at hotels – scanners, RSA people, bouncers worked well.
Lisa Armstrong Rowe as facilitator welcomed everyone to session.
Discussion
Jackie Hetherington & Ian Waugh (Surf Coast Shire); Bill Matthews (Lorne Police); Rose Salvo (YSAS); Juliet English (Accommodation Provider), Nick
Cogger (Munday Group); Sue Morrissey & Heather Ramp (Lorne Community Hospital); Brett Enticott (Anchorage); Peter Spring (Lorne Community
Assn); Matthew Neill (GOR Cottages); Jo Vondra (Lorne Independent); Sue Grant (Volunteer Op Shop & Info Centre), Harri Muller, Ian Denton, Elizabeth
Rickey, Sue Harris (Resident/Rate Payer); Richard Davies (GORCC); Cynthia Grange (Ocean Lodge Motel & Apartments).
Apologies: Dee Stewart (LBTA), Deborah Campbell (Resident)
Present::
LORNE
Agenda Items
Discussion
Discussion
117
once they are here.
x Richard from GORCC said they used security company between 6pm to 6am, and had fence around camp to keep Schoolies in and troublemakers out. Wristbands ensured only Schoolies entered camp. Schoolies had to sign a form re level of behaviour required and were told they
would be sent out if violated that code.
x Look after your mate really worked. Unfortunately it is Schoolies that finish up in hospital unconscious.
Issue – Alcohol Problems
x How to prevent mixed messages regarding use of alcohol when no drinking on streets bylaw is being violated by new café (Colonial) with
people sitting on footpath drinking?
x Where were the By-Law Officers during Schoolies week as they are seen around for other events? They weren’t seen to be booking kids, and
kids were walking up and down street with open cans.
x Often kids commence drinking early in day and are intoxicated by early evening creating noisy out-of-control situations, needs to be stopped
early in day.
x Maybe offer training for By-Law Officers to handle anyone intoxicated?
x Could By-Law Officers work together with Police?
x If Council create a By-Law, should provide enough people to enforce it.
x By-law and its ramifications should be outlined in Schoolies Information Pack.
x Could young people be fined as this would act as a deterrent?
x Feel that issue being pushed aside and not dealt with?
Response:
x This issue is currently before licensing commission.
x Known that Bee Bar and Grill have license on foreshore – hopefully keeping within red floor plan.
x Law is being trailed and may come into Torquay and Lorne, but currently unable legally to get someone not to come into town or to leave
x Need to differentiate between groups, acknowledge that wristband identification good move. Is it possible on bad nights to stop Toolies
coming into Lorne and let them know Schoolies is on?
x What’s situation if can’t get a trouble maker to move out of town?
Response:
x Message needs to be enforced that accommodation providers are in control.
x Schoolies without wristbands were able to get one from Visitor Information Centre if accommodation providers didn’t have them.
x Would need to set up a road block, which would be expensive from manpower point of view, and would cause huge traffic disruptions to all
incoming and through-passing traffic.
Agenda Items
Discussion
118
x They were there between 9am-6pm and penalties they issued will be listed in final report. They don’t have same powers as Police.
x Difficult for Police to cope with large number of kids drinking in groups, need By Laws Officer to take action.
x Will follow up with Local Laws.
Issue – Shire promoting Schoolies when it causes so much hassle?
x Even if accommodation providers didn’t agree to take Schoolies, Mantra would still take them.
x Peter, Lorne Community Assn – members have expressed many concerns re Schoolies and name has too many bad connotations which
media reinforces and creates. Maybe keep within compound that provides all they need – alcohol, activities?
Response
x Jackie agreed to speak with Local Laws, Shire does not promote Schoolies, only information available is Schoolies website, which includes
info on local laws and code of practice.
Issue – unattended accommodation places
x Don’t have code of practices in place that accommodation providers have.
Response:
x Acknowledge that private rentals are still an issue which is difficult to cope with.
Issue – Education of Schoolies & their parents
x Why can’t Schoolies be more respectful of local residents?
Response:
x Education message needs to come from higher up. At recent SWISC meeting (State-wide group) Vivien Brown from Youth Affairs spoke
about new incentives by Department of Education “Celebrating Safely” info being produced for kids and parents. State and Federal Ministers
are aware of issues.
x Plus may be able to link in with COGG’s program re binge-drinking strategies.
x UTube, Facebook – information regarding all aspects sent to kids.
x Whole community, not just young people, need to receive message about proper alcohol usage.
Issue – why aren’t events organised?
x If nothing to do kids go back to private accommodation places to get wasted.
x Kids need entertaining and want activities, maybe have to risk getting more Schoolies but be better controlled?
x In Noosa had card which kids used to attend various events, funded three ways – kids, accommodation providers and operators/businesses.
Response:
x Will have think-tank regarding holding events.
Agenda Items
Discussion
119
Issue – clear up of streets each day
Response
x Huge improvement this year regarding clean up first thing in morning, although close to shops much rubbish left – this was part of area
covered by GORCC, not main street but smith street – back roads between the Hotels.
x Could there be a couple of skips placed in the street for people to use?
Issue – which caravan parks available to Schoolies
x Why is Queens Park used as beyond residential area and kids have to get passed residential streets to reach everything – foreshore,
supermarket, food outlets, hotels causing noise and disruption of personal stuff such as bins, letter boxes?
x Surely Top Bank Great Ocean Road would be much better for kids, leaving Queens Park for other visitors and also leaving Armytage Street
as residential street again.
x Can’t there be more police through Armitage Street?
x Rubbish seems to be concentrated in a few streets – skips could work here i.e. Armitage St.
Response
x Too many people for Top Bank to cope therefore Schoolies moved to Queens Park couple of years ago.
x Schoolies is busiest time for police although other times busy, and impossible to be everywhere.
x Change the park and it just moves the problem to another area.
Issue – Traffic flow and buses?
x Buses are not really helping as kids noisy once get off bus.
x Concern that run events will attract even more young people, which the community is saying they don’t want.
x Working group unclear what community want?. Could have events happening if community agree.
x Pointed out that because not as expensive to travel to, Lorne maybe gets lower socio-economic group of kids as finances an issue, those with
more money go to Noosa and Hawaii.
x Last year Mantra put on entertainment plus had high security but nobody wanted it, plus outsiders weren’t allowed in, therefore even if put on
entertainment may not solve problem.
x Danger if put event on – would cause even more trouble as noisy and disruptive and may attract even more people, possibly other than
Schoolies.
x Issue would remain that young people are still noisy etc on the way home from an organized event.
Issue – business other than accommodation providers & hotels are losing out as visitors won’t come when Schoolies are here.
31. Close
2007 outcomes
30. Where to from
here?
Agenda Items
Discussion
120
Greater enforcement of the by-laws over the Schoolies Period
Greater Police visibility
Increased communication with the community
Rubbish and vandalism
Response
x Need to remember that traffic increase inevitable as P-platers can now only take one passenger.
x Maybe raise issue with Red Frogs and Hotel about where bus stops are, and kids could be directed and assisted to get quietly back to camp.
x Buses do help to move young people safely home.
Issue – what if accommodation providers no longer took Schoolies?
x Difficulty is that even if accommodation providers didn’t agree to take Schoolies, Mantra would still take them.
Response:
x Kids will come anyway, can’t stop them, come here to socialize.
x Maybe need to look again at code of conduct signed by kids?
x Need to consider anti-discrimination regulations.
Issue – Rubbish
x Rubbish situation – on changeover day extra bags left lying around until collected – need special rubbish collection
x Foxes become an issue.
x Could Council provide large steel bins at end of street, strategically placed?
Response:
x Often noted that residents put out rubbish bins over weekend and they are left lying around.
x Rubbish bins are really the responsibility of the property owner
Issues to be included in this year’s Schoolies report.
Next year – National Schoolies Conference in Lorne to pool all information and resources.
Need more community assistance, however greater percentage of town population are over 80.