IDEAS for the new skate park in Bulahdelah flowed thick and fast last week, at an on-site workshop hosted by MidCoast Council.

Under the direction of Community Engagement Officer, Sarah Wilkinson, students from the local schools headed to the Mountain Park to start developing an initial concept.

“We really want the design to be led by the young people themselves,” Sarah said.

“This first workshop was a chance to get those interested young people up to the site, so they can understand how it will sit within the space and how it can complement what is already there.”

Bulahdelah Lions Club is the driving force behind the project, and has already received significant funds through grants and generous backing from local businesses.

But to make the project a reality, the Lions Club need more donations to reach their $250,000 target.

The on-site workshop was the official launch of the fundraising campaign, with representatives from Council, Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce, local police and schools uniting to show their support for the project.

“It is all about the youth of the community,” Lion Arthur Baker said.

“We are going to raise the funds for the park, but it will be built entirely from the ideas of the youth.”

A online budget allocator tool will be available soon to give young people further input on specific elements they would like in the new park.

Sarah said the skate park designer will then work with a core group of local young people to come up with a draft design, which will be put to the community for feedback.

“There may even be the opportunity to hold a mini skate competition to release the draft design and get the community excited for what’s to come,” Sarah said.

More information will be made available on Council’s website in the coming weeks, including a link where people can have their say.