Brewarrina Shire Council is celebrating a highly successful Autumn School Holiday Program, with strong participation across both the free driving school and the three‑day Barber & Hair Workshop. The programs delivered real‑skills learning, confidence building and meaningful opportunities for young people across the Shire.

The two‑day driving program, delivered by Ally’s Driving School, was very well-received by local young people aged 16–18. Participants received free one‑on‑one lessons with a professional instructor, with each one‑hour session counting as three logbook hours, a major boost for young drivers in remote communities.

Brewarrina Shire Council General Manager David Kirby said access to driving lessons remains an incredibly important initiative that Council can offer local youth.

“Out here, having your licence isn’t just useful, it’s a lifeline. It gives our young people the freedom to take part in work, training and community life on their own terms,” Mr Kirby said.

“Seeing so many step up and make the most of this opportunity shows just how determined they are to build their futures. We’re proud to play a role in helping them take that next step.”

Ally Elias, founder of Ally’s Driving School, said she was overwhelmed by the community’s warmth and the enthusiasm of local learners.

“A huge thank you to Brewarrina for having me out these last two days — what an incredible community,” said Mrs Elias.

“I’m so grateful to the amazing team at the Visitor Information Centre and the Youth Centre for making this visit possible. Your support and organisation have opened the door to something really special out here.

“Helping young people work toward their licence isn’t just about learning to drive — it’s about opening up opportunities. Work, education, independence. So much begins with that one life skill of safe driving. I can’t wait to come back.”

The Barber & Hair Workshop, delivered in partnership with the Community Hair Project, also saw strong uptake, with fourteen young people taking part in three days of hands‑on training. Participants learned the foundations of barbering and hairdressing, from sectioning and scissor control to clipper work, fades and basic styling, before putting their new skills into practice by offering free haircuts for community members.

Each participant also received a starter kit including scissors or clippers, comb, cape, clips and water spray, ensuring they could continue practising beyond the workshop.

Mr Kirby said the workshop demonstrated the value of providing young people with opportunities that go beyond entertainment.

“Programs like this are about more than filling time during the school holidays and engaging our youth. They’re about inspiring our young people and giving them meaningful pathways to build confidence, skills and future careers,” he said.

Across the holidays, the Brewarrina Youth Centre also provided a safe, welcoming space for movies, music, chill time and the youth gym, continuing its role as a vital hub for young people.

“Thank you for Ally from Ally’s Driving School and Chrisine from the Community Hair Project for travelling to Brewarrina to deliver these sensational programs.

“These programs show what’s possible when we invest in real skills for our young people. Whether it’s gaining the confidence to get behind the wheel or learning the foundations of a trade, these opportunities open doors that can shape someone’s entire future.

“In remote communities likes ours, a licence can mean access to work, education and independence, and a hands‑on workshop can spark an interest that grows into a career or even a local business. When we create these pathways, we’re not just supporting individual young people, we’re strengthening the future of our whole community.

“Our school holiday programs continue to be a key initiative in providing safe spaces, positive experiences and real‑skills opportunities for young people across the Shire,” concluded Mr Kirby.