Young people in need have a safer ride to important appointments and outdoor activities after Mountains Youth Services Team (MYST) took charge of a new van thanks in part to a $20,000 grant recommended by Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman.

MYST has seen a significant increase in demand following the 2019 bushfires and COVID, however maintenance and repairs on its old people mover had proven too costly and it was in desperate need of replacement.

“MYST wanted to ensure the vehicle it used to transport young people to things like medical and psychological appointments, as well as those taking part in its innovative OutDoor Explore program, was reliable and safe,” Ms Templeman said.

“The team applied for funding under the Stronger Communities program earlier this year, and I was very happy to be able to be able to recommend them for the maximum $20,000, following assessment of their application by my independent community panel.”

MYST picked up the nine-seater, 2021 model LDV van at the end of November, and the OutDoor Explore team in particular is looking forward to using it extensively for its bush adventure therapy program now that lockdown has ended.

Fundraising and marketing manager, Gailene Keen, said the van was needed more than ever.

“We are really excited to have the new vehicle. It will be used across all of MYST’s services and programs, such as OutDoor Explore, and will help us deliver more services to young people and their families,” Ms Keen said.

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