Young people helping shape Blackall's community spaces

New and upgraded community spaces are taking shape across Blackall, with several projects identified and progressed through the Blackall-Tambo Regional Youth Council now becoming a reality.

The projects are creating more opportunities for young people to connect, be active and enjoy their community, while also delivering benefits for residents and visitors of all ages.

Among the projects are the expanding Youth Recreational Precinct, taking in a dedicated youth space within Memorial Hall, and the soon-to-open Blackall Bark Park.

Work has recently been completed on a new basketball shooting and handball court adjacent to the Blackall Skate Park, creating a larger recreational precinct for young people.

The project also included upgraded lighting, an automated watering system and new turf, helping create a greener and more welcoming space ahead of the warmer months and upcoming school holidays.

The new lighting operates on a timer, allowing the skate park and surrounding facilities to be safely enjoyed into the evening.

The precinct will continue to evolve, with plans for a dedicated youth space within Memorial Hall to further expand opportunities for recreation, connection and community activities.

The project was identified by the Youth Council and developed through Council's project team in partnership with the Blackall Community Hub. Works were funded through $35,000 Gambling Community Benefit Fund grant, with additional investment from the Blackall-Tambo Regional Council annual budget.

Work will soon be progressing on the development of a dedicated youth space within Memorial Hall on Short Street, Blackall. 

The facility will complement the nearby skate park and outdoor court, creating a connected precinct designed with young people in mind.

Repairs and upgrades to the building are currently in planning stage, with future improvements to include recreational equipment, arcade games, a pizza oven and air-conditioning to support year-round use.

Another Youth Council initiative, the Blackall Bark Park is nearing completion, with an official opening planned for 19 September.

Located at 140 Shamrock Street, Bark Park will provide a dedicated off-leash space for dogs and their owners, close to the Barcoo River Campsite, Banks Park and the local EV charging station.

The Council-funded project includes dog-proof fencing and irrigated green space, creating a suitable environment for both residents and visitors travelling with pets.

 

Further details about the official opening will be shared with the community in the coming weeks.

Blackall-Tambo Regional Council Director of Lifestyle & Community Services Jaimee-Lee Prow said the projects demonstrated the value of giving young people a genuine voice in their community.

"These projects started as ideas put forward by local young people through the Youth Council, and it's fantastic to see those ideas now taking shape across Blackall," Ms Prow said.

"When young people can see their ideas being listened to and acted on, it strengthens their connection to the community and encourages them to take an active role in shaping its future.

"These projects are creating spaces where young people can be active, social and engaged, while also delivering lasting benefits for the broader community."

Established by Blackall-Tambo Regional Council in 2025, the Blackall-Tambo Regional Youth Council provides young people aged 10 to 17 with an opportunity to share ideas, provide input into Council initiatives and develop leadership and community participation skills.

The Youth Council includes representatives from schools across the region and meets throughout the school term to discuss matters affecting local young people and progress youth-focused projects.