Braking The Cycle graduates are safer drivers!
During Road Safety Month in Queensland, we are celebrating the graduates of PCYC Queensland’s Braking The Cycle (BTC) program.
Recent research from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and major BTC funder, Motor Accident Insurance Commission (MAIC) has shown that drivers taught through Braking the Cycle are safer than your average driver.
Key findings from the report were:
Read the report from QUT and MAIC here.
Braking The Cycle supports young people in Queensland who don’t have access to a registered vehicle to complete their required supervised driving hours.
Road Safety Cadet Club
Braking the Cycle and Wheely Wise are partnering with Fun Squad to deliver newly created Road Safety Cadet Club sessions during Road Safety Month.
The Road Safety Cadet Club sessions cover topics such as the meaning of red, orange and green traffic lights; safely crossing roads; and recognising common road safety signs and what they mean.
These sessions will help our teams spread the message of road safety in all its forms with our very youngest program participants.
Road Safety Cadet Club is aiming to visit all 92 Fun Squads this August.
It’s great to see steady progress at our new PCYC Caboolture site, with construction now more than 60% complete. We’re on track for an opening by the end of the year.
PCYC Caboolture will move to the facility on King Street after 30 years in its current location.
The new club will feature a dedicated youth space, multipurpose sport, recreation and community areas, an upgraded gymnastics facility, a state-of-the-art 24/7 Gym+Fitness centre, and an outdoor basketball court.
The new building will be fully insulated, and have solar panels and batteries installed for more sustainable operations.
It will also feature a sealed car park including at least two all-access designated spaces and overflow parking, external building security and carpark lighting, as well as landscaping and irrigation for all developed areas.
PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz said the new building will be a real heart of the community – accessible to all, welcoming to everyone and addressing a range of community needs.
“This new club will allow PCYC Queensland to continue delivering important youth development programs to the Caboolture community,” he said.
“These programs, After Dark, Drop In, our Youth Leadership Team, and our driver mentoring program Braking the Cycle, are at the heart of what PCYC Queensland is all about.
“The new club will also have brand-new high-quality facilities for Gym+Fitness, sports, gymnastics, martial arts – everything you would expect from a PCYC.”
The new, $17.5 million PCYC Caboolture is being delivered in partnership with the Australian Government ($10 million funding), the Queensland Government ($5 million funding) and Moreton Bay Regional Council ($2.5 million funding).
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said the new PCYC will help more people get active across Caboolture and the Moreton Bay area.
“We know how important sport is in the lives of our young people and this new PCYC will create more opportunities for them engage in sporting programs and after school activities,” he said.
“Our PCYCs offer quality facilities and programs which provide transformative opportunities for people of all ages.”
State Member for Morayfield, Hon Mark Ryan MP, is also a supporter of the project and said it was great for the local community.
“I have been a strong advocate for this project,” he said.
“It’s so exciting for our local community to now see the walls of their new PCYC now standing tall.”
City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery said PCYC Queensland played a key role in the local community.
“We’re proud to have advocated strongly for this new facility. Council has contributed $2.5 million through our Regional Community Grant to help bring the new PCYC Caboolture to life so it is exciting to see the build in full swing,” Mayor Flannery said.
Cr Adam Hain (Division 3) said the new PCYC will give locals a safe and welcoming space they can call their own.
“The new PCYC Caboolture will support generations of young people, helping them grow into confident, connected members of our community.”
PCYC Queensland celebrated 16 inspiring young people from Bundaberg, Cairns, and the Gold Coast on 18 July, as they received the prestigious The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Gold Award, the highest honour in the globally recognised youth program.
The recipients were honoured at a ceremony held at Brisbane City Hall, where the PCYC Queensland cohort represented the largest group of Gold Award achievers at this year’s event.
It was a proud moment for both the young achievers and the organisation that helped them reach their goals.
PCYC Queensland CEO and Chair of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Queensland State Award Committee Phil Schultz said the milestone speaks volumes about the character of the young people involved.
“The Duke of Ed program is a life-changing journey. We are incredibly proud of these 16 young people, who have shown perseverance, determination and spirit,” Phil said.
“To have the largest number of Gold Award recipients in the state this year is also a testament to the support and encouragement provided by our team on the ground.”
PCYC’s State Operations Manager Youth and Community Programs Alex Weber added that the Gold Award represents more than just personal achievement — it reflects growth, contribution, and lasting impact.
“These young people have committed their own time to completing challenges of physical activity, volunteering, skill development, and adventurous journeys,” said Alex.
“Their achievements inspire others and raise awareness of just how valuable The Duke of Ed program is in helping build confidence, independence and community connection.”
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a non-competitive program that empowers young people to explore their full potential, regardless of their background, location or circumstance.
The Gold Award is the highest level, requiring a significant commitment to service, skill development, physical recreation, and personal growth.
If you’re seeking an affordable way to dive into swimming lessons, the Queensland Government’s SwimStart Vouchers are a great solution. The vouchers provide families with $150 to help pay for swimming lessons.
The earlier children start swimming, the more confident they become in the water, which is why SwimStart vouchers are available for children aged four and under.
Starting young means your child can master skills such as floating and basic strokes in our Little n Active H2O class. Once they have gained these skills they will move into a Swim Ready class and be ready to take their swimming to the next level.
Swimming is an excellent way to stay active, healthy, and build lifelong skills. Whether it’s mastering new strokes or enjoying pool parties, swimming helps children stay fit and enjoy the water safely.
Ready to dive in? Visit the Queensland Government website to find out if you’re eligible.
PCYC Queensland’s Fun Squad celebrated Children’s Rights Day last week – a Fun Squad initiative designed to spark conversation, empower children and inspire thought about rights, responsibilities, and what it all means.
Across Queensland, Fun Squads from Cairns to Goondiwindi held activities and conversations where children were encouraged to share what rights they have and what responsibility comes with them.
The initiative began as an idea from Children’s Rights Queensland ambassador and Fun Squad State Operations Manager Karly Sheppard and was an instant hit, inspiring some fashion with a message, kindness walls, and lots of insights. Rights discussed covered friendships, freedom, healthy food, rest, fun, happiness, love, safety and more.
Fun Squad General Manager Bev Book said it’s important that children feel heard and respected.
“This day was about more than just awareness. It was about empowerment too,” she said.
“When children are invited to give deep thought and consideration to their rights and responsibilities, they are better equipped to be confident and caring, great friends, keen learners and conscious of what feels right and what doesn’t. It sets them up for success.
“It was so wonderful to see all of our Fun Squad services embrace this so enthusiastically. Our teams create spaces where children feel safe and heard every day – and this just took it a step further.”
Fun Squad’s Children’s Rights Day is set to become an annual tradition after great feedback from Educators, children and families alike.
PCYC Queensland hosted the flagship event for cadets in Queensland, the 2025 Cadet Games in June.
The Games, in their 11th year, saw 180 cadets from PCYC Queensland Emergency Services Cadets, Surf Life Saving Queensland, Australian Army Cadets, Royal Australian Air Force Cadets and Australian Navy Cadets compete in games of skill, problem solving and teamwork.
They vied for the title of Ultimate Cadet Crew and were judged by emergency services and defence personnel who volunteered their time on the day. Judging was based on communication, ability and teamwork and events are chosen based on skills and drills taught to the cadets throughout the year.
PCYC Queensland Emergency Services Cadets Program Manager Sue Bernard said the day was action-packed, busy and fun – and is made possible thanks to the support of many.
“The day is 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. We have many cadets who return year after year to reconnect with cadets from other areas and seeing them enjoy the events and keep coming back, making these lasting connections and feeling such pride, is so rewarding for us to see.”
PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schulz 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.
“It really shows what we are all about here at PCYC Queensland. It’s also great to get such firm support for the event from the emergency services, our volunteers and PCYC team members.”
PCYC’s Emergency Services Cadets provides young people with practical life skills and leadership opportunities.
The Cadet Games are supported by Queensland Police Service, Queensland Fire Department, Queensland Ambulance Service, Australian Red Cross, Surf Life Saving Queensland, Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and Volunteer Marine Rescue Association Queensland.
Powerful New Partnership to Deliver Positive Outcomes for Queensland Pupils
Two stalwart Queensland organisations have come together to deliver positive outcomes for Queensland families and students by building safer, healthier communities for young people to thrive.
P&Cs Qld has been supporting P&Cs to deliver positive outcomes for students in state schools for more than 77 years while PCYC Queensland has been creating safer, more connected environments for Queensland’s young people and families since 1948.
P&Cs Qld CEO Scott Wiseman said the new partnership was an exciting collaboration set to deliver much-needed support for Queensland families.
“Every parent has heard of PCYC and the important work they do to support families across Queensland,” Mr Wiseman said.
“We know many parents will already know about this wonderful organisation, PCYC, with many having some experience with their programs as children. Who hasn’t been to a Blue Light Disco?
However, Mr Wiseman said PCYC now offered many more incredible programs that supported families and helped keep children on the right track and in education.
“We are proud to be working with this trusted organisation,” he said.
Our values are aligned and complement our own mission at P&Cs Qld to give “every child every chance” to succeed in education and in life through fostering parental and community engagement in a thriving and successful education system.
We have the platforms to promote not only their programs targeting students but also to deliver important information to parents that will help them develop knowledge and skills to become positive role models to their children and in the school and wider community.
Mr Wiseman said the partnership had already delivered dividends with PCYC Queensland a major sponsor of the recent P&Cs Qld Stare Conference on the Gold Coast.
“This important conference brought together P&C members and parents from across the state together to connect, learn, network and share their success stories.
“Talking of success stories, PCYC also sponsored several of our prestigious annual P&C Awards, which celebrated the dedicated and hard-working P&Cs and the work they do to support state school to give every child every chance to succeed in education and in life.
“I’m looking forward to seeing where this partnership will take us,” Mr Wiseman said.
PCYC CEO Phil Schultz said PCYC Queensland was delighted to be embarking upon a partnership with P&Cs Qld.
“The two organisations are aligned in purpose and values – and, importantly, our commitment to the young people in our community, Mr Schultz said.
“I know that working together, we can make great strides in creating safer, more connected environments for Queensland’s young people and families.
“This collaboration is about building stronger bridges between school communities and the opportunities available to their members at PCYC clubs across the state.
“We know that when young people are engaged, active, and supported, they thrive.
“We also know that communities are strongest when we work together—when parents, schools, police, youth workers, and volunteers come together with shared intent.
“I look forward to some great collaboration ahead.”
Around 370 young gymnasts flipped, tumbled, and cheered their way through a day of excitement and energy at PCYC Queensland’s annual gymnastics carnival, held on 14 June at PCYC Logan.
The fun, inclusive event for PCYC gymnasts of all ages and levels from 12 clubs across southeast Queensland focused on participation, encouragement, and team spirit, with a sprinkle of competition.
“It was such a fun event that really focused on teamwork, the great Gymnastics community we have here at PCYC, and having fun,” said Maree Calder, PCYC Queensland State Sport and Recreation Manager.
“While our gymnasts are immensely skilled and many are very dedicated to their sport – we also focus on the joy of moving your body and working as a team. Our carnival is a celebration of that.”
Events included routine displays, skill circuits, and fun challenges designed to highlight the gymnasts’ progress and enjoyment of the sport.
PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz said the event was a huge success.
“While there was a competitive element and the skills on display were impressive, the focus on building confidence, having fun and community really made this event a standout,” he said.
“It was terrific to see so many athletes, families and friends supporting our gymnasts.
“We want to really embrace the fact that gymnastics is not just about perfect routines, but about participation, perseverance, and passion – and we saw a lot of that at this event.”
Throughout the day, awards were presented to recognise gymnasts of all levels.
In a time when young people are increasingly glued to screens, outdoor adventures and challenges are vital tools for building resilience, confidence, and connection.
“Many young people struggle to engage with anything that’s not right in front of them,” said Dylan Smith, PCYC Queensland’s Outdoor Recreation Centre Regional Manager who oversees operations at the PCYC Bornhoffen and PCYC Capricorn Coast – both popular sites for school and leadership camps.
“They’re smart, but when you take them out of their normal environment, it’s daunting at first because it’s not something they are used to – but thatt’s where growth happens and when they are guided through it, the benefits are huge.”
Outdoor camps and programs offer children and teens a rare chance to unplug, challenge themselves, and develop critical life skills. From bushwalks to team-building activities, these experiences are carefully designed to stretch comfort zones and build self-awareness.
Dylan draws inspiration from the philosophy of Kurt Hahn, who warned of the “Seven Declines of Modern Youth,” including reduced fitness, initiative, imagination, and self-discipline.
“Those declines still ring true today,” Dylan said.
“We’re trying to counter that by creating spaces where young people can move, think, collaborate, and grow. I would say that at least 90% of our young people – likely more – walk away from our camps knowing more about themselves, and, importantly, each other, able to work together through their school lives.”
The benefits go far beyond the physical.
Camps foster social connection and emotional development. Group dynamics are an important part of the process, with students who arrive shy or uncertain forming bonds, facing challenges, and learning from both success and failure.
“We take them through a natural evolution: forming, storming, and eventually performing,” said Dylan.
“It’s about learning to work together, solve problems, and realising that it’s okay to make mistakes.”
Importantly, these programs are inclusive.
“Out here, it’s a level playing field. We’ve seen students who struggle in the classroom become leaders on camp,” said Dylan.
“This is where kids find out what they’re made of. They discover that there’s more in them than they know—and once they realise that, they won’t settle for less.”
For schools seeking camp experiences that provide adventure, personal growth and lasting memories, PCYC Queensland’s outdoor recreation centres Bornhoffen, in the Gold Coast hinterland, and Capricorn Coast in Yeppoon offer tailored programs for all school aged young people.
After two decades of service to children and the Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) sector, Karly Sheppard has built a career grounded in fun, rights and real impact.
Now serving as State Operations Manager for PCYC Queensland’s Fun Squad program, Karly oversees a team of 700 staff and helps deliver care to more than 20,000 children across the state. But her journey began on the floor, and she still holds those early years close.
From program setup to statewide leadership
Karly’s OSHC story began in 2002 when she established the before and after school care program at Hills College in Jimboomba.
“I loved it,” she recalled. “Back then, it was basically a babysitting program. There was very little legislation and things were much looser. But I just loved working with primary school children. That’s never changed.”
In 2009, PCYC Queensland took over the program at Hills College. Karly joined the team and gradually moved through a series of leadership roles, from Area Manager to Regional Manager and now to her current statewide position.
Although she no longer works directly with children every day, she says the broader reach of her work is both powerful and humbling.
“I can influence 700 team members and 20,000 children. It’s amazing to feel like I can make a positive impact in all these lives with the work that I do.”
Child voice at the heart of Fun Squad
Karly played a key role in designing and launching Fun Squad, PCYC Queensland’s refreshed OSHC model. The initiative centres on play, engagement and inclusion, and it was designed with direct input from children.
“Some of the icons and characters the children came up with are now core parts of the Fun Squad branding,” she said. “Of course, all research shows that when children are engaged and having fun, their wellbeing is strengthened and their parents worry less.”
The program includes Before School Fun and After School Fun, both designed to match children’s energy levels and emotional needs at different times of day.
“Before school is more social and flexible. Children come in, they have breakfast, they might want to chill and read a book or draw,” she explained.
“After school is when it becomes more structured. We have a wide number of activities going. You might have up to 200 children coming through the door, and we don’t know what kind of a day they’ve had. We have to cater to all their needs and emotions.”
That flexibility includes providing space for movement, mindfulness, meals and even homework when needed.
Prioritising wellness and belonging
Karly said she’s proud of how far the sector has come in supporting children’s emotional wellbeing, noting the integration of mindfulness, yoga and journaling into many PCYC programs.
“All of our services offer mindfulness or yoga or journaling and have a focus on wellbeing and belonging,” she said.
She is also an ambassador for Children’s Rights Queensland, where she supports children to learn about their rights and responsibilities, a role she describes as both meaningful and educational.
“It has been so wonderful to work with all of these children and find out what matters to them,” she said.
Leading with heart
For Karly, the core of her leadership is simple. It’s about how people feel.
“I am often guided by the great quote from Maya Angelou: ‘People won’t remember what you say or do, but they will remember how you made them feel,’” she said.
“That’s how I try to do my job and live my life.”
