THE Strathbogie Shire Councils youth committee Evolve will receive $73, 500 in funding from the State Governments 2016-18 FReeZA grants. Jaclyn Symes (MLC, Northern Victoria) announced the funding as part of $1 million to be shared across her upper house electorate to go towards free local music and cultural events for the community. The Evolve group is made up of an inspiring group of young leaders. These young people meet on a weekly basis to discuss, plan and deliver a range of exciting live music and creative arts events and training opportunities specifically for young people. According to the group, these events and training opportunities will enhance their personal development, build numerous skills and showcase youth in a positive light in the wider community context. Ms Symes said while participants in the program gain valuable skills and experience, the whole community stands to benefit from great free events that are organised. The FReeZA program gives young people the chance to grow industry contacts, gain practical experience and develop career opportunities in the industry, she said. We are proud to support the young people who organise these events, make local industry connections and explore job opportunities for the future, all while following their passions. Engaging young people in helping to organise music and cultural events builds their experience and skills and benefits our community by having more great local events. FReeZA provides funding to local government and community organisations to support young people to run fully supervised drug, alcohol and smoke-free events in their local area.