While having my coffee at the Red Room Cafe I was surprised to see just out side the Footscary Library a mobile gaming station with all sorts of games and consoles.

I met with Tania.J from Phoenix Youth center of Maribynong City council which she shared with me what they are doing for the kids of Maribynong council.

I discussed with Tania on what they hope to achieve by having games as a way to talk to the youth. She replied by saying games are one way to get kids to open up and talk about their problems, which they might be having at home or school. Generally Tania isn't a gamer which she shared with me or a tech whizz either, but she is a youth councillor with the qualification to help kids. Gaming is just one way of getting kids to come to these vehicles and just relax, play some games and maybe talk to someone about their problems.

The vehicle dubbed the Surfer, surfs around the area traveling to disadvantage areas and communities hoping that Kids will come up to the vehicle and just be kids and have fun.

When growing up as kid/teen I didn't really pay much attention to my friends feelings. So called friend I am, but as adult living in this generation I've seen social media take over and the rise off cyber bullying with in the youth community.

What we have here is a a great way to help the youth and with the friendly staff at Phoenix Youth center, I think they are doing a terrific job by helping kids with their problems through gaming. This the first time I ever seen this and I wish more councils take note of what Maribynong City council is doing for the next generation. 

By Ritchie Plunkett