Johnathan Thurston to join Balonne’s youth extravaganza

Australian football legend Johnathan Thurston has partnered with Balonne Shire Council to celebrate the region’s youth and community with a three-day extravaganza on August 26, 27 and 28, 2019.

JT and his team from the JTAcademy will deliver workshops to primary and high school students from the local and surrounding areas designed to build self-esteem, confidence and believe in themselves.

Students will undertake the academy’s JTSucceed and JTBelieve programs, both designed to encourage students to stay at school, value an education and believe they can be successful in a career of their choosing with the right support.

JT Academy’s Managing Director Johnathan Thurston said he was really excited to bring the academy to the area.

“We are really looking forward to visiting the community and talking directly with the kids as part of these exciting programs,” Thurston said.

“The program, in partnership with the Balonne Shire Council, works on a number of key youth issues and works in conjunction with the wider community.

“I’m also looking forward to getting out and meeting with as many residents of the area, who I know have been doing it tough of late.”

There will be a meet and greet with Thurston between 4.30pm and 6.30pm at Rowden Park, school workshops, a fundraising dinner and motivational sessions.

Balonne Shire Mayor, Richard Marsh, said the region was buzzing with the news that JT was coming to town.

“In these hard times of drought, a visit by someone such as JT is just what is needed to lift the spirits in our community,” he said.

“The work of the JTAcademy is renowned for helping youth and I’m sure our younger residents will really enjoy the workshops.

“I would like to thank JT, the JTAcademy, Primary Health Network, Regional Development Australia and the South West Hospital and Health Service for their support of this visit.”

For more information please call Sarah Morgan (JT Academy) on 0421 664 969 or Julie Davies Balonne Shire Council on 0476 660 047