MEDIA RELEASE
Thursday 9 April, 2009
ABA to continue the work of Rural Youth Movement
The Advisory Board of Agriculture has been awarded $40,000 in liquidated funds to continue the work of the former Rural Youth Movement.
The ABA, which is the governing body of the Agricultural Bureau of SA, was awarded the funds following a successful application process.
ABA Chair, Mark Dennis says the funds will be used to continue the work of the Rural Youth Movement in providing development opportunities for the State’s rural youth.
“An annual $5,000 bursary will be established over eight years to assist young people to pursue study, or undertake a special project that will benefit the rural community,” he said.
“Four young people will also be supported each year to participate in the SA Rural Leadership Program conducted by PIRSA Rural Communities.
“These funds will enable our youth to up-skill for the challenges ahead and hopefully put them in good stead to become future leaders.”
Liquidator, Hugh McPharlin from Edwards Marshall Pty Ltd, says the ABA was chosen as the successful candidate because of its detailed approach in providing personal development opportunities for youth in all rural areas.
“The aim was to find a like-minded organisation who would continue the work of the Rural Youth Movement. And the ABA definitely fitted the bill,” he said.
“Forty young people will now have the opportunity to develop their skills with the help of these funds.”
Inactive for nearly five years, the Rural Youth Movement was the leading organisation in promoting leadership and community service opportunities for young people. At its peak it had almost 5000 members, but by 1997 there were fewer than 100 members.
