Big milestone for youth program

PCYC Caboolture recently celebrated 10,000 attendances at its After Dark program.

That’s 10,000 times that a young person has come to PCYC Caboolture After Dark to play sport, make friends or engage with mentors.

After Dark at PCYC Caboolture was set up in 2023 in response to police and community concerns around youth-based anti-social behaviour at the local shopping centre.

After Dark has created a safe space for young people in Caboolture and Morayfield and contributed to a significant reduction in incidents at the shopping centre.

PCYC Caboolture Youth Club Program Manager Sergeant Mark Haestier says PCYC is somewhere young people feel safe, supported and valued.

“We are consistent with our program delivery, and we will always be there for these young people,” he says.

The program is designed for 12 to 19-year-olds, but Sergeant Mark said they frequently have attendees who are older than 19 who just want to drop in, say hello and stay in the loop.

“They come here for connection,” Sgt Haestier says.

“There is no ‘typical’ young person attending After Dark. There are some sporty kids, First Nations boys and girls playing touch footy, some people come to play or listen to music. Some of the young people don’t quite ‘fit in’ in other places, but they fit in here at PCYC.

“Over the past 18 months we’ve been supported by five QPS Officers patrolling the shopping precinct and outer areas to positively engage and prevent any incidents of youth based anti-social behaviours. These officers have developed positive relationships with many young people and have assisted with the cultural and behavioural shift of a positive change.”

“The way in which the community assisted us to deliver such a wonderful and meaningful program is beyond words. We have created the most safe space for young people.”

PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz says After Dark gives young people an inclusive space where they can belong.

“It’s fantastic to hear of the success of the After Dark program at PCYC Caboolture, and the positive impact it is having on young people in the area,” he says.

The 10,000 attendances milestone isn’t the only reason to celebrate at PCYC Caboolture, with a brand new club due to open early next year.

PCYC Caboolture’s new building on King St is nearing completion and the club will move operations, including youth programs, Gymnastics and a 24/7 gym, to the new facility in the new year.

After Dark will remain at Dickson Park, across from Morayfield Shopping Centre.