Public spaces are not often the domain of young people. When we consider the design and use of common areas, there seems to be a lot of thought given to facilities for children, adults and seniors; such as seating options, barbecues, undercover areas, age appropriate playgrounds, etc. However, little consideration seems to be placed in providing,  accommodating, and dare I say inviting, adolescents or young people to those spaces. In fact, people often feel intimidated when groups of young people gather in public areas.

​

At Baringa, an incredible resource was provided to young people with the skate plaza. A place designed and thought through to welcome and encourage young people to “own”. It’s well lit, close to amenities and offers a range of possibilities to stay engaged and challenged.

The idea for this project called ‘Make Art not War’ came from meetings and conversations between a range of stakeholders who were concerned with some anti-social behaviour occurring in Baringa and Caloundra West. Local residents, school staff from Baringa Primary and High school, Unity College and Meridan State College, QLD Police, Stockland, representatives from AURA Connected and Bells Reach Community Association, the Baringa Tavern and other small businesses have been part of these conversations over the past 18 months chaired by Division 1 Councillor Rick Baberowski.

​

In early 2020 the Community Centre applied for a Council grant to engage young people and provide a meaningful way to create an art project to contribute to the young people’s sense of belonging to the community and in particular the skate plaza.

We engaged local artists Sara Sculley and Daniel Krause who delivered a two-day workshop to design and paint the structure. The workshops were also supported by Integrated Youth and Family Services (IFYS).

​

The outcome is not only the amazing work and ideas of the 24 participants, but also a gift to the community of the positive impact young people have in our community and contribution to the built environment.

​

We thank Sarah, Dan, Peter Fitzpatrick for building the structure. We also like to acknowledge the financial contributions of the Sunshine Coast Council through its Grants Program and Stockland.

​

Callum, Tyrin, Tahlia, Summer, Amber, Morgan, Raf, Daisie, Ellie, Charoltte, Jaxon, Enzo, Maya, Autumn, Ethan, Maya, Nicole, Millie, Katie, Abbey, Taryk, Charlotte, Laura, Talis