26 February 2025
RAYS is a dynamic group of 12–25-year-olds from across the Alpine Shire, united by their passion for amplifying youth voices.
Born from the Future Proof project after the devastating 2019/2020 bushfires, RAYS was established to build a supportive and engaged youth community that creates positive change.
The Resilient Alpine Youth Squad's vision is to create a thriving youth community within Alpine Shire, where every young person has a voice that echoes through council decisions. We envision a well-connected network that bridges the gap between youth and the broader community, creating a shire that consistently incorporates the perspectives and aspirations of its youth.
The Resilient Alpine Youth Squad's purpose is to empower and uplift the youth of Alpine Shire, providing them with opportunities for personal growth, fostering resilience, and promoting community awareness. We strive to be the unwavering voice of youth in our shire, advocating for their needs within the broader community and its services.
My name is Cooper, I am a newer member to RAYS and have lived in Myrtleford for my whole life.
I am passionate about Youth Empowerment and creating better Mental Health for local young people.
My favourite thing about where we live is the great mosaics all around Myrtleford and enjoying the outdoors.
In my free time I am generally out and about in the community, hanging out with friends or with the Army Cadets.
Hey, I’m Fox (they/them). I’ve been with RAYS since 2022 and grew up in Harrietville, where I now work at a local café after finishing Year 12. I care deeply about making mental health services accessible for everyone, standing up for LGBTQIA+ rights, and pushing for better public transport in our region. In my downtime, you’ll probably find me painting or hitting the ski slopes.
I’m Geordie (he/him), and I’ve lived in Myrtleford for most of my life. I’ve been part of RAYS since the very start in 2022, and I’m especially passionate about affordable housing, mental health, and making sure young people have a real say in local issues. One of my favourite moments each year is laying the ANZAC Day wreath on behalf of RAYS and the young people of Myrtleford. On the weekends, I’m usually at home relaxing or playing baseball.
Hi there! I’m Harry, and I live in Bright. I’ve been with RAYS since 2022 and am really passionate about disability rights and youth empowerment. Most weekends you’ll find me away competing in wheelchair tennis, which I absolutely love — it’s a huge part of my life.
Hey there! I’m Jenna (she/her), and I’ve been part of RAYS since 2022. I’m currently in Year 12 at Bright P-12 and love having the chance to help guide and support the newer, younger members of our group. I’m passionate about improving public transport, fighting climate change, and pushing for more affordable housing across the Alpine Shire. On weekends, you’ll usually find me outside — hiking, playing netball, skiing — or tucked away in a quiet spot with a good book.
Hi, I’m Kira (she/her)! I grew up in Wandiligong and now work a mix of jobs around Bright. I’ve been involved in RAYS since we started in 2022. I’m passionate about tackling climate change and improving public transport across our valleys. Over the past year, I’ve been proud to receive the Young Achiever Award at the 2024 Youth Awards and the Local Young Achiever Award at the 2024 Community Day Awards. In my free time, you’ll find me with my horses, flying at the gliding club, or with friends.
Hi, I’m Taylor (he/they/her), and I’ve been part of RAYS since 2023. I’ve lived in Bright for over 14 years and am really passionate about both mental health and caring for the environment. One of the things I’m most proud of so far is helping deliver the 2024 Emergency Careers Expo. On weekends, you can usually spot me volunteering at the local market.
I am Zoe (she/her), I’ve been part of RAYS since 2022. I grew up in Tawonga South and am currently completing Year 12 at Mount Beauty Secondary College. I’m involved in my community, which led to winning the Community Award at the 2023 Youth Awards and, more recently, the Local Young Achiever Award at the 2025 Community Awards. I advocate for stronger climate action and better mental health support. In my spare time I love cross-country skiing, mountain biking, trail running, and being outdoors
Alpine Shire Council acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work, live, and play. We recognise the continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures across Australia and pay our respects to Elders past and present.
