Redeveloped Broome PCYC opens its doors after $1.3 million makeover

A series of investments in the beach resort town of Broome in Western Australia’s Kimberley region has seen the reopening of the Broome PCYC after a $1.3 million makeover to expand its capacity and the range of programs on offer for young people.

Supporting at-risk youth and strengthening opportunities for early intervention and diversion,

Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan and Western Australian Police Minister Paul Papalia attended the upgraded facility on Saturday for its official opening.

As part of the Western Australian Government's broader approach to crime prevention and providing safe spaces and structured programs to support at-risk youth, significant investments are being made in PCYCs across the state, aiming to deliver activities and programs aimed at supporting young people to engage in positive activities and live productive lives.

The Broome PCYC first opened its doors in 1978 and for decades has provided a safe environment for young people to engage in positive social interaction and meaningful activities.

The new Broome PCYC features upgraded facilities for boxing, gymnastics, fitness and basketball along with a refurbished administration area, upgraded bathrooms and changing rooms, new external lighting and improved landscape treatments.

PCYC Broome also runs SafeSPACE, SafeSISTAs and Boys SafeSPACE - programs aimed at reducing youth offending and strengthening opportunities for early intervention and diversion.

Explaining the investment in programs aimed at reducing youth offending and improving community safety, Premier McGowan stated "PCYC does a terrific job right across the State giving young people a supportive environment where they can have fun and interact socially in a positive way.

"Sport and the other activities are a great way to boost a young person's self-esteem and engage them positively.

"That's why (the Western Australian) Government is investing in early intervention programs like PCYC, particularly in regional communities, where boredom and disengagement can sometimes lead young people down the wrong path."

Minister Papalia added "PCYCs do outstanding work providing young people with activities where they can be challenged, educated and engaged.

"The activities and the staff at PCYC can re-engage alienated young people and help them on a path to a purposeful and meaningful life.”

Broome skate park to be upgraded
The Shire of Broome has also recently received a $1 million Lotterywest grant to breathe new life into the town's outdated skate park.

Constructed more than 20 years ago and located close to schools, TAFE and the Broome Recreation and Aquatic Centre, the $1,002,205 grant will see the Broome skate park - that is no longer fit-for-purpose - redeveloped to cater for all skill levels and designs and will feature new shaded areas, drink fountains and lighting.

The redeveloped skate park will support up to 3,000 young people in Broome to come together to enjoy a vibrant community space offering social and recreational activities.

Collie and Fremantle PCYC receive much needed funding
In July it was announced that the Collie and Fremantle PCYC would receive funding under the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Round 6 funding program.

Collie PCYC was awarded $8,732 to replace ageing gym flooring at the centre while Fremantle PCYC was awarded $14,658 to install turf and four reversible basketball/ netball posts with backboards and hoops to the facility’s outdoor area.

The outdoor area is the heart of the Centre at Fremantle PCYC and is utilised by all Fremantle PCYC program participants.

Image: Broome PCYC.