Wodonga’s new and only Youth Space – Windbreak 3690 – is a space the youth of Wodonga can call their own.
“For years, our feedback has been telling us young people and their families really have wanted a safe space where they can meet and socialise,” says Junction Support Services CEO Megan Hanley.
“With Windbreak 3690, young people in Wodonga now have a space with an inclusive culture that is safe and welcoming.”
YO3690, Junction Support Services’ Youth Advisory Group, funded by VICHealth’s Future Healthy program, has co-designed the new community space and will continue to inform its programs and events.
“YO3690 is a committee for youth by youth, and our vision is to build a foundation for community connection and engaging experiences for the youth of Wodonga,” says YO3690 member Alex Atkins.
“We really believe Windbreak 3690 will be a place that brings the youth of Wodonga together in a positive way.
“Our community doesn’t have anything like this. Windbreak 3690 shows Wodonga’s youth is contributing to the community, looking to the future, and doing positive things.”
YO3690 will be based at the new central Wodonga space.
“I am incredibly proud of YO3690 and congratulate each and every one of them for their input and determination to make this new space a reality. Developing community spaces to promote community connection is part of Junction Support Services’ 2020-2023 strategic priority,” says Megan Hanley.
“YO3690’s commitment to making Wodonga a safer, more friendly and welcoming place for young people is clearly evident. Wodonga should feel very proud of these young leaders.”
The name, Windbreak 3690, is the winning competition entry, submitted by Maxwell Sage, of Wodonga.
A windbreak provides a screen for the weather, a safe place to land, people to meet and something to do. Windbreak 3690 will be a break from the elements and space for young people to grow into their own.
Windbreak 3690 is at 198A High Street and marks a significant new chapter in the long life of Wodonga’s most distinctive High Street building, which operated as Café Grove for 20 years before closing in 2019.
The iconic building served as Wodonga’s council chambers from 1957 to 1976.
It has also housed the SES, Citizens Advice Bureau and government department offices before becoming Cafe Grove in 1999.
Windbreak 3690 will be open 3:30pm – 7pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays during school terms.
IN THE MEDIA
Seven News Border:
ABC Goulburn Murray Radio, Breakfast with Sandra Moon:
WIN News Border:
