Rio Tinto renews youth support

Published on Friday, 28 November 2025 at 2:43:13 PM

Youth directed events and community vibrancy programs will continue to thrive thanks to renewed funding from Rio Tinto.

In a huge win for young people, an extended agreement of $225,000 over three years from Rio Tinto will allow for the City of Greater Geraldton’s Youth Vibrancy Officer to continue coordinating and delivering a wide range of programs and events.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Jerry Clune expressed his gratitude to Rio Tinto for their continued investment in the region.

“This longstanding partnership continues to deliver positive outcomes and opportunities for our young people,” he said.

“I am particularly thrilled to see the inclusion of Reshape, a brand-new program whereby young people collaborate with local artists and mentors, as well as trialling a Youth Advisory Group model focused on program planning for the Geraldton Youth Centre.

“Beloved initiatives including Battle of the Bands, Sundays by the Sea, Sunset Yoga, Films on the Foreshore and the always popular School Holiday Program are also set to continue under the renewed agreement. 

“Rio Tinto has been vital in assisting events and programs in Geraldton and I thank them for their continued support of our community,” finished Mayor Clune.

Reshape is scheduled to be rolled out in early 2026 and will see young people work with local artists and mentors to create works of art from recycled material that explore themes of mental wellbeing, cultural identity and the environment.

Rio Tinto Iron Ore General Manager Communities Molly Singline highlighted the importance of investing in young people and supporting community growth in Geraldton.

“The City of Greater Geraldton’s youth programs are empowering young people to thrive by building confidence, developing new skills, and strengthening connections within the community.”

“We’ve partnered with the City for nearly a decade to deliver youth programs, and we’re delighted our renewed partnership will help provide even more opportunities for young people in the region through the new Reshape program.

"Rio Tinto has been part of WA for 60 years, and partnerships like the one we have with the City are part of our commitment to make a real difference across the state."

The recently signed Geraldton Youth Partnership agreement will remain in place until 2028.

For more information on local events, visit the City’s online Events Calendar.

The role of the Youth Vibrancy Officer reflects the City’s commitment to support and celebrate the City’s diverse community through programs that build social connections.

PICTURE CAPTION: (L-R) Charlie Sage, Youth Development Officer Erykah Forrest, Coordinator Youth Development Lisa Sage, Rio Tinto Superintendent WA Communities – Pilbara Inland Paul Miller, City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Jerry Clune, Youth Vibrancy Officer Catherine Hazell, Manager Community and Cultural Development Jo Bianchi, Ayden Sage

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