A group of local and Walcha youth headed to the Tamworth Paintball centre for a “highly competitive” game of Laser Tag, then dug into a barbecue lunch and games and activities at Tamworth’s Youthie.

In the final days of Youth Week, Gunnedah’s youth development officer Sewa Emojong says activities have been well-received.

This year, the Gunnedah Shire Council has run a program over two weeks to capture the students who might miss out in school holidays. Activities have included a skatepark workshop, Youth Expo and Just Dance contest.

Ms Emojong said it has been “great to see interest grow in Youth Week”.

“This is probably the most youth -  12-25 - we’ve had at activities,” she said.

“It’s been really lovely to try some new things and see the input of the young people come to fruition.

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“Some highlights of this week have been the two barista courses that were kindly hosted by Kinfolk.

“We had our Beats, Bass and Basketball event [on Wednesday] night and we had over 30 people attend and participate, which is a really good number of people, especially since it was in recognition of Youth Homelessness Matters Day.

“We’re looking forward to ending with a big bang with our fun fest and also iron + clay.”

On Friday, flower-crowned performer, Goldheist, will headline Friday Fun Fest at Kitchener Oval from 5pm-10pm. The event will also feature novelty sports competitions, bubble soccer, a canteen, more live music from Gunnedah Conservatorium, an outdoor movie and short film showcase.

The action-packed fortnight will wrap-up with a concert featuring Iron and Clay, in the Gunnedah Town Hall on Saturday from 7.30pm-9pm. Iron and Clay is a ministry/motivational band that travels across Australia to inspire and influence young people.

All Youth Week events are drug and alcohol free. For the full program, click here. To book, phone Gunnedah Shire Council on (02) 6740 2100.