Moira Shires youth will have plenty of free local music, arts, cultural and youth leadership events in the future after the region received a $73 500 grant to continue running Moira Youth FReeZA. Driven by the MY FReeZA committee, the events will be tailored to meet the needs and wants of local youth. Key events could include Kool Skools CD Recording; Battle of the Bands; movie nights; DJ events; skate workshops; talent sessions in conjunction with local show committees; self-esteem and leadership skill development; and event training. It will also offer an avenue of personal development for committee participants. The grants, totalling $1 million, were part of the Victorian Governments 2016-18 FReeZA grants, to run fully supervised drug, alcohol and smoke-free local events. State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes, said while participants in the program gained valuable skills and experience, the whole community would benefit from the free events that are organised. , The FReeZA program gives youngpeople the chance to grow industry contacts, gain practical experience and develop career opportunities in the industry, Ms Symes said. She said the funding would also helpengage young people in planning andstaging music and cultural events such as skate competitions, music concerts and artcompetitions. Ms Symes said engaging young people inhelping to organise music and cultural events builds their experience and skillsand benefits the community by havingmore great local events.