Stories - April 24, 2026
ROAR-ing Success: Holiday fun empowers Riverina youth
Almost 40 Riverina young people had the time of their lives during free school holiday activities that boosted wellbeing, confidence and social connections.
Intereach’s Reach Out and Relax (ROAR) team delivered two excursions earlier this month, funded by the NSW Government’s Autumn 2026 Holiday Break Program.
ROAR worker Geoff Dewar said rising living costs and fuel prices meant opportunities like these were often out of reach for families.
“It was great to be able to take this group away, including several siblings and family groups, and remove that barrier,” he said.
“It means young people can focus on having fun, building friendships and simply being kids.”
Geoff pictured with one of the participants.
On 9 April, 19 young people aged 12–15 travelled from Gundagai to Wagga Wagga for a full-day excursion designed to build confidence, encourage peer connection and expose them to new experiences beyond their local community.
From tackling the physically demanding ‘Meltdown’ ride at Vortex Entertainment to navigating Wagga Bowling lanes without bumpers, participants were challenged to step outside their comfort zones in a supportive environment.
“Young people encouraged each other, celebrated successes and showed resilience when things didn’t go to plan,” Geoff said.
“The more time young people spend building real-world connections — laughing with friends, overcoming challenges and safely exploring beyond their usual surroundings — the stronger and more resilient they become emotionally.”
Parents reported noticeable changes, with many highlighting increased confidence and enthusiasm following the trip.
One parent said their child came home “smiling and full of stories,” while another described the experience as “amazing” and “very well run”.
The following week, another 20 young people from Wagga Wagga took part in the ROAR Mystery Bus Tour, designed to foster independence, creativity and community connection.
ROAR worker and organiser Maree Kelly said the “mystery” format encouraged participants to embrace uncertainty and build confidence in unfamiliar situations.
“We saw young people step outside their comfort zones, say yes to new experiences and reconnect with peers they had met on previous trips,” she said.
“By the end of the day, new friendships had formed, with connections continuing beyond the event.”
The tour included visits to the Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory and Marrar Kitchen & Co, where participants enjoyed lunch, afternoon tea and a hands-on leather craft workshop facilitated by CG Creations.
“The workshop created a safe, creative and inclusive space for teens. Each young person walked away proud of what they had created and the skills they had learned,” Maree said.
She said the day also highlighted the strength of local collaboration, with businesses working together to support the experience and explore future opportunities.
Family feedback reinforced the positive outcomes, including increased independence, new friendships and a willingness to engage in future activities.
One caregiver said their child was “as proud as punch” after making new friends, while another noted attending independently was “huge for her confidence”.
Others described the program as a “fantastic opportunity” and praised the safe, inclusive environment created by ROAR staff.
Across both events, a consistent theme emerged: when young people are given opportunities to connect, explore and challenge themselves in a supportive setting, the benefits extend far beyond a single day.
“These programs are about more than just entertainment. They’re about building resilience, strengthening social connections and creating a sense of belonging for young regional people,” Maree said.
“It’s just so nice seeing kids being kids and reconnecting with friendships formed on previous trips. Through word of mouth, families know ROAR events are safe, inclusive and fun.”
The parent feedback from both events was outstanding.
Find out more about how ROAR supports young people and their families to improve their emotional health and wellbeing: Reach Out And Relax (ROAR) – Intereach
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