Bringing BackTrack to the ACT

This event offers attendees the opportunity to engage with the successful NSW youth diversionary program, BackTrack. The BackTrack program was founded in Armidale in 2006 and works with local communities to help young people develop healthy foundations for positive life pathways. Underpinned by a commitment to doing ‘whatever it takes for as long as it takes’, BackTrack provides holistic, flexible and long-term support to help young people find their place and belong and support their personal development.

Commencing at 5:15 pm (with food provided upon entry), this event will provide insights into how the program achieves success by screening the short 35-minute documentary 'BackTrack: Chasing Dreams', which traces the stories of some of the young people who have been supported by the program. This will be followed by a panel discussion featuring BackTrack founder Bernie Shakeshaft and Tyson, a young person who has participated in the program. Bernie and Tyson will discuss the program and engage with local change-makers Dr Justin Barker and Dean Jard to consider what BackTrack could look like in the ACT context. The conversation will be moderated by Jodie Griffiths-Cook, ACT Public Advocate and Children and Young People Commissioner. Proceedings will conclude at 7:30 pm.

If possible, please watch the first documentary before the event. You can access it via this link.