The community based arts worker has been working with Gunnedah Youth Council members, teaching them the ropes as they film local residents over three days.

“It’s not only about getting used to using this video equipment. On a more serious note, it gives kids a chance to have their say,” Mr Szabo said.

The arts worker said he hoped the video would give the Youth Council “visibility”.

“This one is directed to youth. How do we get youth articulating not only what they want now but what do they want in Gunnedah in 10 years, long-term,” Mr Szabo said.

He said the youth had been quick to pick up what they needed to do with the equipment.

“This generation is so much more media literate,” he said.

“I might start a project behind the camera but very quickly I’m on the edge as they get the hang of it.”

Mr Szabo said he was pleased to work with Gunnedah Shire Council’s youth development officer Sewa Emojong, because she was one of his mentees in Armidale.

“What a thrill to have one of my mentees give me a job,” he said.

“It gets to the point where we’re teaching each other.”

Ms Emojong said the project was a "great opportunity to engage with young people” and would assist the council in updating its Community Strategic Plan (CSP).

“It’s a community stategic plan pulse check,” she said.

“Gunnedah Shire Council wants to go out to the community to get the community’s views and ideas for how to make Gunnedah a better place to live because we’re all on the one team; we all want the best for Gunnedah.

“The video project is a way to tap into the youth and figure out what they would like to see Gunnedah become or if they’re happy with how it is and ways that we can work together to make it better for everyone.”