As Youth Volunteer Week shines a spotlight on the invaluable contributions of young volunteers, PCYC Queensland was proud to host its flagship cadet event, the 2026 PCYC Queensland Emergency Services Cadet Games, on 1 August, celebrating the commitment, leadership and community spirit of young people across the state.
A total of 150 cadets from a wide range of organisations participated in the Games at its new location in Redcliffe, with the opportunity to be recognised as the Ultimate Cadet Crew. Emergency Services and Defence personnel volunteered their time to assess teams on their communication, teamwork and practical skills through activities that reflected the training and experiences cadets have undertaken throughout the year.
The honours were as follows:
1st – Wolffdene Emergency Services Cadets
2nd – Toowoomba Emergency Services Cadets
3rd – Childers Emergency Services Cadets
PCYC Queensland Emergency Services Cadets Program Manager Tina Adams said the day was action-packed, busy and fun – and is made possible thanks to the support of many.
“The day was all about the young people getting together with cadets from other organisations, and making connections in a fun way – and, of course, plenty of competitive spirit,” she said.
“It is a real celebration of our remarkable young people, giving them the chance to use skills they have learned and be seen by some leading figures in the emergency service and defence community.”
Volunteering is at the heart of what we do at PCYC, and Adult ESC leaders as well as volunteers from a range of emergency services helped Tina and her ESC team on the day.
PCYC Queensland Acting CEO Mitch Ryder said the games were a highlight of the PCYC calendar each year.
“Seeing these young people excel in what they are doing, work together, make new friendships and, importantly, have fun while doing so is terrific to watch,” he said.
PCYC’s Emergency Services Cadets provides young people with practical life skills and leadership opportunities.
The Cadet Games were supported by Queensland Police Service, Queensland Fire Department, Queensland Ambulance Service, Australian Red Cross, Surf Life Saving Queensland, Australian Army Cadets, Royal Australian Air Force Cadets, Australian Navy Cadets, Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and Volunteer Marine Rescue Association Queensland.
Great progress is being made on site, and we’re excited to see the new club coming together.
Although the building is still under construction, we’re already active in the community, with Drop In continuing in a local park each week with Sergeant Mark Haestier.
The countdown is on, with the club expected to open late this year. We can’t wait to welcome the community through the doors. Thank you to the Queensland Government Delivering for Queensland, and to Kendall Hatcher MP, Tim Mander MP and Stockland Aura for helping make this important community project possible.
Congratulations to our amazing PCYC Bundaberg Competition Team!
What an incredible weekend at the Yeppoon Invitational! We couldn’t be prouder of the hard work, determination, grace and sportsmanship shown by all our gymnasts. Well done to everyone who competed, including:
🏅 Asher – 4th on Vault and 6th All Around (Level 3 Under 9)
🏅 Lilly – 2nd on Vault, 1st on Beam, and 4th All Around (Level 3 Under 10)
🏅 Charlotte – 1st on Bars, 4th on Beam, and 5th All Around (Level 3 Open)
🏅 Clara – 4th on Vault and 2nd on Floor (Level 3 Open)
🏅 Ellah – 5th on Vault and 2nd on Beam (Level 3 Open)
🏅 Elouise – 5th on Bars (Level 4 Under 9)
🏅 Bonnie – 4th on Bars (Level 4 Under 11)
Congratulations girls! You make us incredibly proud and we can’t wait to see what you achieve next!
A conversation at a PCYC Crestmead Colour Run has helped turn one young person’s dream into reality, highlighting the far-reaching impact of community partnerships and the power of investing in young people.
PCYC Crestmead hosts two Colour Runs each year, popular events which rely heavily on volunteer support to help deliver a safe and memorable experience for local families.
Ahead of the club’s last Colour Run, PCYC Fleet and Procurement Manager Lyndelle Hutchinson, a regular visitor to PCYC Crestmead, rallied support from fleet management provider Summit Leasing, with five staff members from the company assisting.
PCYC Crestmead Youth Leadership Team member Jack joined staff and volunteers to help set up the course and activities. Jack also welcomed and briefed the Summit Fleet Leasing and Management staff, sharing his positive experiences with PCYC Crestmead and speaking openly about his ambition to become a motor mechanic.
Impressed by Jack’s enthusiasm and maturity, Summit staff encouraged Lyndelle to contact Motorama Springwood to explore potential apprenticeship opportunities on his behalf. An interview was organised, with PCYC Crestmead supporting Jack through interview preparation and logistics.
Jack successfully secured an apprenticeship and is now balancing his training with completing years 11 and 12 through The BUSY School Kingston.
His dream of becoming a motor mechanic is now well within reach.
PCYC Procurement Officer Lyndelle Hutchinson said the outcome demonstrates the strength of community partnerships and the lasting impact they can have on young people.
“We’re super excited to be able to help young Jack get closer to that goal. Motorama and PCYC have a great working partnership and it has been wonderful to watch them take one of ‘ours’ under their wing,” Lyndelle said.
“They are waiting for us to find them their next superstar to join Jack hopefully in the near future as part of the Motorama family. Jack has left quite an impression on the Summit Leasing team’s hearts and minds.”
PCYC Regional Manager Mike Coker said Jack’s journey reflects the value of collaboration between PCYC, industry partners and the broader community.
“This is an amazing example of collaboration and support of Jack’s ongoing development and journey with PCYC,” Mike said.
“I can’t wait to hear how he progresses in his apprenticeship and involvement with Crestmead.”
PCYC Crestmead Youth Club Program Manager Sergeant Chris Davey said the story highlights how meaningful opportunities can arise when community organisations and businesses come together to support young people.
“What began as a volunteer opportunity at one of our Colour Runs has become a pathway to employment for Jack,” Sergeant Davey said.
“We’re incredibly proud of everything he has achieved and grateful to Summit Leasing, Motorama and Lyndelle for seeing his potential and helping him take the next step towards his future.”
The outcome serves as a powerful reminder that every volunteer, every partnership and every conversation can make a difference in enriching young lives. For Jack, one day spent helping at a Colour Run has become the first step in building a successful career.
PCYC Queensland hosted the flagship event for cadets in Queensland, the 2026 Cadet Games, on 26 June.
A total of 66 cadets participated in the Townsville Cadet Games, with the opportunity to be recognised as the Ultimate Cadet Crew. Emergency Services and Defence personnel volunteered their time to assess teams on their communication, teamwork and practical skills through activities that reflected the training and experiences cadets have undertaken throughout the year.
The honours were as follows:
PCYC Queensland Emergency Services Cadets Program Manager Tina Adams said the day was action-packed, busy and fun – and is made possible thanks to the support of many.
“The day was all about the young people getting together with cadets from other organisations, and making connections in a fun way – and, of course, plenty of competitive spirit,” she said.
“It is a real celebration of our remarkable young people, giving them the chance to use skills they have learned and be seen by some leading figures in the emergency service and defence community.”
Volunteering is at the heart of what we do at PCYC, and 20 Adult ESC leaders as well as 25 volunteers from a range of emergency services helped Tina and her ESC team on the day.
PCYC Queensland Acting CEO Mitch Ryder said the games were a highlight of the PCYC calendar each year.
“Seeing these young people excel in what they are doing, work together, make new friendships and, importantly, have fun while doing so is terrific to watch,” he said.
PCYC’s Emergency Services Cadets provides young people with practical life skills and leadership opportunities.
The Cadet Games were supported by Queensland Police Service, Queensland Fire Department, Queensland Ambulance Service, Australian Red Cross, Surf Life Saving Queensland, Australian Army Cadets, Royal Australian Air Force Cadets, Australian Navy Cadets, Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and Volunteer Marine Rescue Association Queensland.
Over 600 young gymnasts have shown their skills over the weekend at a series of PCYC Gymnastics Winter Carnivals across the state.
A big congratulations to all the gymnasts, staff, volunteers and supporters who made this day special.
These are some of the highlights from the PCYC staff members and parents.
Gold Coast, Ashmore and Nerang
Nicole Tansley, Club Manager PCYC Gold Coast, said that the gymnasts were so excited to receive medals and certificates.
“Their little faces when showing their parents and siblings was priceless,” she said.
“The team sprit when gymnasts cheered each other on was beautiful.”
Ipswich and Fernvale
Taneysha Joice, Club Manager PCYC Ipswich, said that the best part of the day was the excitement from the gymnasts, especially those who knew they had improved and received higher ribbons than at their last showcase.
“We had two amazing 14-year-old volunteers who led the warm-up for all the gymnasts, and geared them up for an exciting day,” she said.
Bayside, Redlands and Carindale
Layne Clarke, Club Manager PCYC Bayside, said her highlights were happy, smiling faces trying their very best and enthusiastic participation with warm up.
“Our Member Services Officer was there to watch her daughter compete and still managed to jump in and help us with canteen. The showcase was a wonderful, warm way to show families what the spirit of PCYC Gymnastics is all about,” she said.
Pine Rivers, Deception Bay, Sandgate and South Burnett
Paula Sargeant, Club Manager PCYC Sandgate. Said she enjoyed seeing the smiles on the athletes’ faces as they celebrated their achievements, the incredible support from the crowd, cheering on every participant and the gymnastics hall coming alive with a Mexican wave.
“Our Youth Leadership Team (YLT) members from both Pine Rivers and Deception Bay played an important role throughout the day, assisting with the canteen and helping ensure the event ran smoothly. Their willingness to volunteer and support the event was greatly appreciated,” she said.
A parent commented: “Thanks so much for hosting the showcase on Saturday. It was my child’s first ever showcase and she had a blast thanks to how well it was organised, and the great atmosphere you created.”
Caboolture and Redcliffe
Tabith Burns, Club Manager PCYC Redcliffe said her staff were great at taking initiative and helping out.
“The athletes couldn’t wipe the smiles off their faces!” she said.
When Ryan Murray’s mum Pat was undergoing cancer treatment, he joined PCYC Gold Coast’s Braking The Cycle so he could build up his logbook hours, and his efforts have been rewarded: he’s recently just gained his licence.
While Ryan (20) was a learner driver, his parents were unable to supervise his driving as his mum, Pat, was so unwell – but Ryan was determined.
With the dedication and support of our amazing mentors at PCYC Gold Coast, Ryan is now behind the wheel on his own, with a host of employment and educational opportunities now more accessible to him.
Ryan said that without Braking The Cycle, he wouldn’t have his licence right now.
“I would like to humbly thank PCYC for helping me drive and get my Ps,” he said.
“Without you guys, I don’t think I would have my licence right now.”
Ryan’s parents are so grateful to the Braking The Cycle program that they intend to pay it forward by helping to mentor other young drivers in the future: a full circle moment for Ryan, his family, and the Braking The Cycle team.
“Once my husband retires soon, he’s keen to become a BTC driving mentor. And I myself hope to do the same after completing my recovery,” Pat said.
Braking The Cycle at PCYC Gold Coast and PCYC Ashmore are funded by MAIC (Motor Accident Insurance Commission) and support over 100 learner drivers per year across the two clubs.
If you can spare some time to help young learner drivers, please contact PCYC Gold Coast about becoming a volunteer driver mentor.
Well done to all the young people who submitted their artwork for our Youth Week Art Competition.
PCYC Queensland’s Youth Week Art Competition celebrates the creativity and unique perspectives of young artists across the state.
The competition invited young people to respond to the theme “One World, Many Stories,” and showcased a diverse range of artworks exploring identity, culture, connection and community.
After reviewing a strong field of entries from across Queensland, judges have recognised two standout young artists:
Both artists impressed judges with their creativity, originality and thoughtful interpretation of the theme, capturing powerful stories that reflect the richness and diversity of communities across Queensland.
PCYC Queensland General Manager of Youth and Community Programs Andy Cassidy said the quality of submissions made the judging process both inspiring and challenging.
“The artworks we received this year were absolutely amazing,” Andy said.
“From deeply personal reflections to vibrant cultural storytelling, young people across Queensland demonstrated incredible talent and insight.”
Amelia and Joanna will each receive an Apple iPad, as well as have their artwork featured in future PCYC Youth and Community Programs marketing materials.
Well done to all the young people who submitted their artwork.
Name: Amelia
Artwork title: Australian Stories Under the Rainbow
Artist Statement: Under the rainbow, I see the Australia I know—full of different families, cultures, and stories that make home more colourful.
Name: Joanna
Artwork title: Authors of the Future
Artist Statement: We all come from different backgrounds, places, and cultures, but together we write our own stories and pave a path to the future we will someday lead.
Through policing and mentorship, Sgt Chris Davey has made a positive impact on the young people all over Logan.
PCYC Crestmead’s Youth Club Program Manager, Sgt Chris runs youth programs After Dark, Drop In, Cadet Club, Team Up, Youth Leadership Team and CHAMP.
One of the most popular programs is Boxing After Dark, which attracts dozens of young people from across Logan each week.
Chris also leads PCYC Crestmead’s Youth Leadership Team (YLT) who are prolific in the Logan community as they work on developing the three pillars of club, community and self.
Chris said the YLT has formal debates about issues that affect them like e-scooters and the new social media laws, and they also visited state parliament, where they discussed Indigenous representation in Parliament as well as the social media ban.
“They have cleaned graffiti off club walls, helped the homeless, they play dodgeball and cook meals, they play ping pong and pool. We keep activities wide and varied to keep the young people interested,” Chris said.
At the recent ColourXplosion run fun, Jack from the YLT was chatting to some corporate partners in attendance who were so impressed with him they arranged for him to start an apprenticeship.
“It’s great to see a good kid getting an opportunity,” said Chris.
“Hopefully he’ll be a trailblazer who could open up doors for other young people.
“I hope this is the first step into a fulfilling and enriching career for Jack.”
Jack is a great example of YLT’s young people getting exposed to community and the great outcomes which can come from that.
Chris said there are so many reasons he loves his job.
“The kids keep me young! I’m 57, but still 27 at heart. I love watching them grow,” he said.
“Some of the kids spend more time here than at home, and some are here seven days a week so I embrace the opportunity to influence those young people positively.”
To celebrate National Volunteer Week we are proud to showcase some of our amazing volunteers:
John Tillman
For more than 13 years, John Tillman has made volunteering at PCYC Dalby part of his everyday life, turning up each morning to support student drivers and ensure young people can access education safely and reliably.
His commitment gives students, families, and staff a sense of reassurance that shapes the club’s Braking The Cycle program.
John has contributed more than 10,000 hours, in that time creating a structure that others can depend on. His background as a teacher adds depth to the way he supports young people and understands their needs.
For John, the value of volunteering lies in showing up and being present.
“I’ve always believed that if you can help someone start their day on the right foot, you’ve already made a difference,” John said.
That outlook has shaped every early morning he has given to the community.
He also sees the impact in the relationships he has built.
“You get to know the students and their families over time, and that connection makes it all worthwhile,” he said.
“It’s rewarding to know you’re part of something that helps them keep moving forward.”
Well into his 80s, John continues to offer his time because it gives him purpose. His contribution has strengthened community wellbeing by reducing barriers to education and employment and creating a supportive environment for young people.
Volunteering is a way of life for John. His dedication reflects a belief that small, consistent actions can create lasting change.
Julia Morahan
Julia Morahan brings energy and connection to her role as a volunteer with the PCYC Gold Coast Youth Leadership Team (YLT). The Youth Leadership Team is a social and leadership development group for high school aged young people who wish to improve their leadership skills, give back to their communities, and connect with them.
Since joining in 2018, Julia has built strong relationships with young people by showing up each week and contributing far beyond what is expected.
With more than 200 volunteer hours under her belt, Julia helps run activities, supports discussions, and creates a welcoming space where participants feel valued. Her involvement extends to planning programs, sourcing equipment, contributing ideas that keep the group engaged, and making sure the YLT have fun.
Julia’s background as a sponsored gamer gives her a unique way to connect with young people. She shares advice about online safety and career pathways, offering guidance that feels relevant to their interests.
She describes volunteering as a chance to give back in a meaningful way.
“I love being able to connect with young people over things they’re passionate about and help them see what’s possible,” Julia said.
“It’s such a rewarding feeling to watch them grow in confidence.”
Her impact can be seen in the growth of the Youth Leadership Team, which has expanded from four to 10 regular participants. Julia values that sense of progress.
“Seeing more young people turn up each week and get involved is what keeps me motivated,” she said.
For Julia, volunteering is about creating opportunities. She is committed to making sure young people feel supported and encouraged, and she finds fulfilment in helping them build skills and connections that will stay with them into the future.
Trevor Standfast
Trevor Standfast has spent more than two decades shaping opportunities for young people through his leadership of the Duke of Ed program at PCYC Bundaberg.
As founder of the club’s program, known locally as the Bundaberg Blazers, he has created a space where up to 50 young people at a time can explore new experiences and develop valuable skills.
The Blazers undertake activities like camping, canoeing, navigation, and teamwork, encouraging young people to step outside their comfort zone.
Trevor’s contribution includes more than 2,400 hours of volunteering, leading weekly sessions as well as organising adventurous journeys throughout the year.
He finds motivation in seeing young people grow.
“Watching young people discover what they’re capable of is what keeps me going,” Trevor said.
His leadership has helped create one of the most successful Duke of Ed programs in Queensland, with many participants going on to become active members of their community.
Trevor believes volunteering is about opening doors.
“When you give young people the chance to try new things and support them along the way, you can see their confidence grow,” he said.
Through his long-term dedication, Trevor has created a lasting impact on the young people pf Bundaberg. His work supports young people, builds confidence, strengthens community ties, and inspires young people to give back.
Dianne Dow
Dianne Dow is the heart of the Braking The Cycle program at PCYC Beenleigh, giving her time almost every day to support young people working towards their driver licence. Volunteering around 30 hours a week, she plays a vital role behind the scenes, helping the program run smoothly while providing steady encouragement to participants.
Her focus is on creating a safe and welcoming environment, especially for young people navigating anxiety, mental health challenges, or social barriers. Dianne meets each person where they are, helping them feel comfortable and building their confidence step by step.
For Dianne, volunteering is deeply personal.
“I love seeing young people realise they can do something they didn’t think was possible,” Dianne said.
She also values the connections she forms through the program.
“You get to know their stories, their challenges, and their goals,” she said.
“When they succeed, you feel like you’ve been part of something important.”
Dianne ensures every driving session feels calm and organised. This consistency has helped many participants stay engaged and achieve milestones that lead to greater independence and opportunity.
Dianne’s approach shows how much impact dedicated support can have.
Peter Hening
Peter Hening has quickly become an important part of the Braking the Cycle program at PCYC Gladstone, bringing a level of commitment that goes far beyond expectations.
In just two years, he has contributed more than 600 hours, supporting young people while also helping to keep the program running at full strength.
Peter combines mentoring with practical support. He helps organise events, maintain vehicles, recruit and train volunteers, and even steps into coordination roles when needed. His willingness to take on responsibility ensures participants continue to receive consistent support.
He is driven by the difference he sees in young people.
“Volunteering gives me the chance to help someone move forward in their life,” Peter said.
Peter also values being part of a team that supports the community.
“Everyone plays a role, and I enjoy stepping in wherever I can,” he said.
“It feels good to know you’re helping a young person succeed.”
Through his steady involvement, Peter has helped young people gain licences, improve confidence, and access new opportunities. He has also strengthened the program by building partnerships and supporting fellow volunteers.
Peter’s dedication and support leave a strong impression on everyone he works with.
