💚 Helping Young People Stay Connected This Summer

Community Call-Out for Activities, Programs & Youth-Friendly Offers

Hi Genki Fit family,

As many of you may have seen, new social media age restrictions for young people under 16 are expected to come into effect soon. While these changes aim to protect young people online, they will also arrive right in the middle of the summer school holidays; a time when connection, friendship and support are absolutely essential.

For many young people in Ballarat and surrounding regional areas, social media isn’t just entertainment, it’s their primary way to stay in touch. With barriers like limited transport, financial pressure, or living rurally, losing access to these online spaces could increase the risk of loneliness and social isolation for some.

At Genki Fit, we believe in building healthier, happier, more connected communities; and that includes supporting young people’s wellbeing within and beyond the fitness space.

What We’re Creating

We’re putting together a free community resource to help young people aged 12–25 find safe, positive ways to connect during the school holidays. This guide will include:

• Free and low-cost activities

• Youth events and workshops

• Social groups and clubs

• Accessible fitness opportunities

• Holiday programs

• Volunteer opportunities

• Local offers or discounts for young people

• Anything that helps them get connected, supported and involved

Our priority is to make sure young people - especially those under 16 affected by the restrictions - still have plenty of ways to engage with friends, community and fun experiences.

The first offer that will be added is FREE classes for young people under 16 from now until January 31st 2026 at Genki Fit. Please still book your young person in via the app for numbers (equipment & my reporting).

How You Can Help

If you run a community group, business, program or initiative that offers something for young people, we’d love to include it.

Simply email or send us:

• A link to your program or activity

• A short description

• Age range

• Cost (if any)

• Dates/time/location

We’ll gather everything into one easy-to-access resource and share it widely across Ballarat.

Why This Matters

Connection is at the heart of wellbeing. By working together, we can make sure no young person feels left behind these holidays especially those who already face barriers to social participation.

Let’s make sure our young people stay supported, included and connected.

If you’d like your activity added, or if you know someone who should be involved, please reach out.

With gratitude,

Jaymee

Stronger together. Always.