Published on Monday, 20 April 2026 at 8:50:51 AM

The Shire of Dardanup is celebrating the success of Youth Week 2026, with more than 920 young people taking part across YouthFest and The Full Send programs held from 7 to 11 April 2026.

YouthFest 2026, the Shire's flagship Youth Week event held on Saturday, 11 April, drew a crowd of over 550 people across Glen Huon Oval, Eaton Skate Park, Eaton Community Library and the Mick Bennett Make-It Space.

The day's standout was the Freestyle Now skatepark competition, drawing more than 48 participants from the South West and Peel regions across eight categories, with first place winners taking the top spot in scooter, skateboard and BMX events.

Freestyle Now competition first place results:

The event also saw the Youth Advisory Group (YAG) raise $300 for youth mental health through their op shop stall, greater involvement from youth organisations and clubs, and continued support from local emergency services.

Leading into YouthFest, The Full Send delivered four days of free skate-focused activities at the Mick Bennett Make-It Space and Eaton Skate Park, with over 370 young people participating across the week's programs

Highlights included skateboard design workshops, coached skating sessions with Freestyle Now, and a good vibes drumming circle led by Scott Pierce.

Shire staff also fired up the BBQ, adding to the warm, community spirit that defined the week.

Shire President Cr Tyrrell Gardiner said the results speak to the hard work that goes into making these events a reality.

"Seeing over 920 young people come together across the week is incredibly rewarding," Cr Gardiner said.

“YouthFest and The Full Send are about more than just activities, they're about making young people feel seen, valued and connected to their community.

"We're proud of what our Youth Advisory Group and all of our partners helped deliver this year, and we're grateful to the Department of Communities for the funding that made it possible."

Now in its fifth year, YouthFest continues to grow in both scale and impact, driven by the Shire's commitment to youth-led programming that reflects the interests and needs of young people aged 12 to 24.

The Shire thanks the Department of Communities for its support through the 2025-2026 Sponsorship Program, as well as all participating organisations, volunteers, local emergency services, and the young people who made Youth Week 2026 one to remember.

Back to All News