In 2019, the Murray Mallee LLEN Navigator team noted a gap in terms of formalised linkages to other local services. On the 26th of June 2019, the MMLLEN Navigator staff called a meeting inviting local youth services with the purpose of sharing information together and considering the need for an ongoing more formal network. This was met with huge interest and a desire to formalise and develop a stronger more collaborative service network with the aim of achieving better outcomes for our youth.

At the end of 2023, the Swan Hill and District Youth Services Network (SHDYSN) has grown to over 150 youth worker representatives on the mailing list with an average of 30-40+ members attending annual meetings. SHDYSN saw a range of guest speakers and opportunities be presented to members including various training and forums.

In addition, our Projects Officer Mikayla created a presentation about the history of the network and presented this at our 2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM) as well as to local organisations wanting to find out more about the network.

In response to an identified need, the Navigator Program were instrumental in helping establish the Swan Hill and District Youth Services Network. Ongoing support and funding to the Network has been supported by the Murray Mallee LLEN the Navigator Service Provider for the Southern Mallee.

Due to the MMLLEN/NCLLEN partnership being, unfortunately, unsuccessful in its tender application to continue to faciliate the program, the Murray Mallee LLEN will be unable to facilitate this network beyond December but will remain active participants.

In the final meeting of 2023, our Specialist Navigator Supervisor/Case Manager Fi Mertz and our Projects/Communications Officer Mikayla Zanker were thanked for all their contribution and hard work that has gone into establishing and maintaining the smooth running of the SHDYSN on behalf of the Murray Mallee LLEN.

The network has been invaluable in engaging and strengthening service relationships in our area to respond to issues impacting youth, keeping abreast of changes and working better together to achieve better outcomes for our young people by adopting three principles including partnerships, advocacy and educate!

For more information about the history of the SHDYSN, check out the presentation at the link below: