YOUTH HQ is set to get a bit busier with Hands Up Casterton community engagement officer, Kane Forbes, confirming the opening hours going forward.

“We are going to open for our casual drop-in centre on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3.30-5.30pm,” he said.

“We are in the process of onboarding volunteers, and once those numbers grow, we will look to increase those hours.

“I am optimistic we can get to being open seven days, got around 45 volunteers who have put their hand up.

“I am just putting the final touches on some organised programs, motor mechanics which will go through pulling apart and putting engines back together, sharpening chainsaws and other things, then we will also have cooking and art classes as well.

“If anyone else thinks of an idea, get in touch.

“We want this to be a real community space, making sure if anyone needs to have a meeting or use the space, please let me know, it is for the whole community to utilise.”

There will also be a meeting on Monday at Youth HQ to discuss plans for the dog park, while a podcast series is starting to take shape as well.

“The storytelling podcast has got some real momentum,” Mr Forbes said.

“We have just recorded our first couple of episodes, if anyone thinks they have an interesting story, whether it be history, sport or war based, we’d be interested in having a chat with them.”