The Armidale PCYC has become one of the brightest buildings in the city after a massive makeover. Thanks to a $30,194 State Government grant, the entire facade has been repainted in the club's iconic red, white and blue.
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"There could be no mistaking now what organisation operated out of 176 Rusden Street," manager Sam Davis said.
Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall said the new paint job had reinvigorated the ageing brick building. It looked brilliant, and stood out on the street, he thought.
"PCYC celebrates healthy living, fitness, and wellbeing, but unfortunately up until now it has operated out of a building which was old and tired," Mr Marshall said. "This grant has transformed it into a giant billboard promoting the organisation's great work in the community."
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Armidale PCYC was trying hard to increase the number of people who use its facilities, Mr Davis said.
"We have so many great gym and health facilities to offer. With the building now visually more appealing, I hope more young people will come in and get involved in the multitude of programs we offer."
Initiatives like the Nanyapura youth boxing program benefited the Armidale community, Mr Marshall thought.
Since 2017, the thrice-weekly, police-run program has developed self-respect and confidence in Indigenous kids, some of whom have been in trouble with the law. Some formerly frequent offenders have stopped altogether, while it has helped older teens finish school and look for careers.
"It was great to see some of the participants taken on a special trip to Sydney recently as a reward for their efforts and contribution to the program," Mr Marshall said.
The politician acknowledged the work of PCYC, New England Police Inspector Roger Best, and his team for bringing the local indigenous and non-indigenous community together through the program.
"Over the years, PCYC has done an incredible job building relationships between the police and Armidale's youth," Mr Marshall said.
Mr Davis thanked Mr Marshall for his ongoing support of Armidale PCYC and its programs.