EAGER young locals were treated to 360 degree flips, board grinds and slides at Fly Point Skate Park Nelson Bay, with pro-skaters and scooter demo teams giving kids a close-up encounter of professional riders.
The National Youth Week event was hosted by Tomaree Youth Community Action group (TYCA) as part of their Snak’N’Rap activities.
Over 100 riders competed on the day with a full schedule of events and knock out rounds.
“The best in the field rocked up for a great day out for local youth,” TYCA president Jamie Brewster said.
Music and entertainment was provided by UP&UP and Newcastle Scratch Academy.
There was also conversation and support from Newcastle Headspace and the Red Frogs crew.
As well as the action at the Skate Park, parents and children were treated to live entertainment, free art activities and market stalls as part of Youth Week activities.
Port Stephens Mayor Bruce MacKenzie attended the event and spoke about the importance of always giving things a go.
“To the winners, congratulations, but to the participants that are not the winners, one of the main things is to have a go and participate,” Cr MacKenzie said.
“If you don’t win, you’ve had a go, because in life you have to have a go.”
Professionals Bridie Hyland, Jack Gray and Andrew Holmes from Newcastle Skate judged the categories along with Ryley Sams, Jack Livermore, Dane Forbes, Will Johns and Steve Parrey from Parrey Skatepark.
The event was strongly supported by local businesses and community groups with sponsors including TYCA, Newcastle Skate, Parrey Skatepark, Port Stephens Council, McDonald’s, Tsunami Surf Nelson Bay, Mojoe Clothing, Port Stephens Removals and Storage, the Salvation Army, SportsPower Salamander Bay, Red Frogs, Headspace Newcastle and Coles Bakery.
The brilliant action shots were captured by David Harris Photography.
TYCA is hoping to make this an annual event.
For more information or to join in assisting our local youth head to TYCA Tomaree Youth Community Action on Facebook.
Event Winners:
Skate
11-13 Winner: Ashley Pritchett
14-16 Winner: Jack Whittaker
Opens/Sponsored winner: Lachlan Cherry
By Jo FINN
