On Tuesday 2nd December, we finished up 2025 with our annual End of Year Party to celebrate the many achievements of everyone at YO Bendigo.

Held at the Civic Gardens, the event was all about connection, fun, and recognition. Volunteers from across YO Bendigo programs, Youth Council, YO Events, YO Media, and participants from our Table-Top Role-Playing Group, workshops and events, gathered to reflect on an amazing year. 

MC'd by Deputy Youth Mayors Alyssa Beaton and Bailey Dolan, the event began with acknowledging the incredible contribution that young people have made in our programs this year. Youth Mayor Levity Camilleri, Ambedo Editor Connor Findlay and YO Events representatives Sadie Field and Moon Vincent each shared highlights from their respective groups, followed by presenting each of their members with a certificate. 

After the formalities, the celebration shifted gears into pure fun with the Backyard Games Showdown. Teams battled it out in Giant Jenga, Connect 4, Cornball, card games and classic egg-and-spoon races, earning points and plenty of laughs along the way. Individual awards for MVP, Cheerleader, and Joker added an extra layer of excitement as everyone competed for prizes and bragging rights. 

Of course, no celebration is complete without great food - classic fish and chips, snacks, and drinks kept everyone fueled for the festivities.

As the sun set over the Civic Gardens, one thing was clear: YO Bendigo volunteers are the heart and soul of everything we do. Their passion, creativity, and commitment make a real difference in the lives of young people across Greater Bendigo.

Thank you to every volunteer for making 2025 such an incredible year! We can’t wait to see what we achieve together in 2026.