The following information has been compiled on the basis of experience in establishing an Enviro Youth Council in the Maitland area, Hunter Region.

The following points are a summary of why the Maitland Environmental Youth Council (EYC) was formed:

• To capture and maintain the enthusiasm and interest generated through Maitland’s first Enviro Youth Forum held during May 1997.
• Student feedback from the Forum indicated a high level of interest in becoming involved in a Maitland Enviro Youth Council, students had provided their own contact details in relation to this.
• There was no obvious vehicle for young people to become involved in the environmental arena beyond school. Although Landcare groups exist throughout the Maitland area, young people often feel such established groups are "not for them" or they feel somewhat intimidated about going along to an "adult" activity. The EYC provides a clear pathway to gain youth involvement in the environmental arena.
• To establish a main contact point from where local government and other organisations could seek input from youth on various issues: environment, strategic planning, culture etc..

Once again, these points are based on our experience in Maitland:

• Ensure strong ownership of the EYC’s activities and objectives by the members themselves. Resist the temptation to have one person take responsibility for all actions.
• At the first meeting of the newly formed EYC, and on a review basis after this, find out from individuals why they came along and how they would like the group to function. In this way you can help to ensure that the group itself meets the needs of its members and maintains their interest.
• Encourage fun and creative activities to be a part of the EYC’s agenda, this plays a big role in ensuring that people keep coming back.
• There will need to be guidance provided to the group by someone who has some experience in co-ordinating and/or working with voluntary groups. Within the Maitland EYC, this is fulfilled by the Maitland Landcare Co-ordinator.
• Towards the outset of the EYC, organise activities whereby the group can develop stronger connections between its members. For example, the Maitland EYC hold an annual environmental training camp to Wangat Lodge in the Chichester State Forest, this is a great opportunity for members to get to know one another better and to gain some practical environmental skills. This camp helps to break down some of the barriers that exist because the members come from different school backgrounds and may find it difficult to make connections with others during monthly group meetings.
• Have EYC members promote the group’s activities to school assemblies on a regular basis.
• Prepare regular media releases to build awareness of the EYC and its activities and achievements.