Busselton youth development officer join city youth service team

A new youth development officer in Busselton has been selected to undertake a 12-month traineeship with the City of Busselton Youth Service team. Representing the local youth at council meetings and running the SHIFT Youth Crew are just some of the integral jobs now on the table for Cape Naturaliste College graduate Josh Grocock Smith, who secured the 2021 position. Mr Grocock Smith said the traineeship was an “incredible opportunity”. “Taking on this role will allow me to help the local community while learning from experienced mentors in the field of youth services.” he said. Mr Grocock Smith was heavily involved in the SHIFT Youth Crew over the past seven years and said he greatly valued its role in the South West city. “The traineeship is a fun but demanding position which has a strong focus on networking with other young people,” he said. Mr Grocock Smith’s new position is the product of a partnership between Rio Tinto and the City of Busselton. Rio Tinto superintendent community engagement officer Justin Francesconi said the program continued to provide good results. “It’s great getting to know the new appointees and seeing them grow in confidence and ability as the year progresses,” Mr Francesconi said. This year Rio Tinto amped up its commitment by providing additional funding for more activities in Dunsborough. Youth development supervisor Angela Griffin said that testing a youth program in Dunsborough was always a priority of the Youth Services Team and the funding would enable trials to continue.