Teens launch bullying attack

By Casey Neill
HILLS teens are speaking out against violence and bullying in Upwey through a new photo exhibition.
Five 13 and 14-year-olds created the National Youth Week project We’re Afraid of the Daylight with help from Burrinja and local artist Tiffaney Bishop.
Ms Bishop said many people living in and around Upwey saw the town as “a bit of a hot spot” for youth violence and anti-social behaviour.
“The degree to which people feel unsafe, particularly young people, must be acknowledged,” she said.
However, she said there was a strong desire to make Upwey a safer place.
The teens involved hail from Upwey, Belgrave and Upper Ferntree Gully.
“All of them have witnessed violence, or have felt vulnerable in Upwey, and surrounding communities, on a regular basis,” Burrinja’s Tilla Buden said.
Three of the budding artists were direct victims of youth violence.
“We’re sick of all the violence and we don’t feel safe in Upwey,” one said.
“We’ve decided we want to speak out, even though we’re frightened to.”
Youth violence, bullying and anti-social behaviour were their key concerns.
Ms Bishop helped the group express their feelings and ideas to gain community support.
They participated in weekly sessions covering location photography, digital processing, art history and exhibition planning over three months.
“We are hoping to continue this project, offering these young people, and others, the opportunity to express themselves and make a difference to this situation,” Ms Bishop said.
Ms Buden encouraged young people affected by or involved in violence or anti-social behaviour to call Burrinja on 9751 9309 or send an email to tillab@burrinja.org.au.
“We are also seeking support from interested community, business and government groups,” she said.
Shire of Yarra Ranges Streeton Ward councillor Noel Cliff will officially open We’re Afraid of the Daylight at 7pm on Thursday 2 April.
The exhibition will be on display at Burrinja’s Jarmbi Gallery, 351 Glenfern Road, Upwey from 1 to 14 April.
See What’s On on page 22 for Cardinia and Yarra Ranges Shire National Youth Week activities.