Drop ins welcome at The Deck

THE Deck youth venue in Raymond Terrace offers those aged 12 to 18 anything from a space to hang out, play a video game, get a meal or help with homework.

After a period of closure due to flooding, the Deck has re-opened and youth workers are calling on teenagers to drop in and utilise the space.

“There’s computers, access to internet, a pool table, air hockey,” Matt Breen, coordinator for the Deck, said. “We have music equipment, gaming tables and consoles. There’s always something to do.”

The drop in program runs each Thursday and Friday between 3.30pm and 6.30pm. The Deck offers a “free feed” on Fridays.

About 20 youths attended the drop ins prior to the April super storm, which caused extensive damage to the blue building off Kangaroo Street in Raymond Terrace. Mr Breen said he hoped even more youths would attend the drop ins this year.

John Schultz, who works at the Deck drop ins, said he accessed the venue when he was a teenager, saying it is a “cool, open place to hang out”.

“If ever you want to talk to a youth worker, we’re here for that time,” added Nicole McLennan, also from the Deck.

Follow The DECK – Youth Venue on Facebook.