Through long-term community investment from McArthur River Mine (MRM) the Community Benefits Trust and strong partnerships with local organisations and government, Gulf Youth and Community Services (GYCS) is creating new opportunities for young people across the region supporting wellbeing, culture, sport and life skills. 

The initiative reflects a clear message consistently shared by community members, supporting young people is one of the most important investments in the future of the Gulf region. 

Through the McArthur River Mine Community Benefits Trust (CBT), almost $3 million has been invested since 2023 to establish the program and build the foundations for a sustainable community-led youth service. This investment has supported governance development, community engagement, program design, the employment of local staff, vehicles and properties to support operations and accommodation. 

Today, GYCS is delivering a diverse range of programs designed to keep young people engaged, active and connected to their community. 

Programs include structured youth diversion initiatives designed to support at-risk young people and reduce their likelihood of entering or progressing through the justice system. The programs provide safe, positive and culturally appropriate pathways through activities such as sport and recreation for women and men, fishing trips and on-Country experiences, music programs, cooking workshops, woodwork, and life skills training, alongside broader family support through the Child and Family Centre. 

For many participants, the activities provide more than recreation – they create spaces for connection, confidence building and positive role models. 

Listening to community 

The establishment of Gulf Youth and Community Services began with listening. 

Community consultation undertaken in Borroloola and Robinson River in 2019 identified youth support as the highest priority for community investment. At the time, there were limited structured programs available for young people, particularly those not engaged in school. 

To better understand these needs, the MRM Community Benefits Trust commissioned a Youth Scoping Study in 2020–2021. The study involved extensive consultation with young people, families and community leaders to identify the issues facing young people and the kinds of programs that would best support them.

The study confirmed the need for a coordinated youth service capable of supporting both existing activities and new programs focused on wellbeing, cultural connection and life skills.

This work informed a Strategic Action Plan developed in 2022, outlining the key steps required to establish a dedicated youth and community program for the region.

In 2023, the Community Benefits Trust committed funding to establish the program, initially delivered through an arrangement with community organisation Plan C while further systems, governance and programming were developed.

The intention from the outset was to establish a standalone community organisation that could grow and operate independently.

Building a local workforce

In 2024, the program transitioned to an independent organisation, Gulf Youth and Community Services. 

Led by General Manager Steve McAllan, the organisation is now delivering consistent programming across Borroloola and Robinson River while continuing to expand its services and partnerships.

GYCS supports 24 staff across full-time, part-time and casual positions, prioritising employment and training opportunities for local people.

These roles include youth wellbeing officers, program coordinators and support staff who work closely with young people and families across the region.

Workforce development is also a strong focus, with staff undertaking structured training and mentoring to build their skills and support long-term career development.

Staff are undertaking Certificate IV training in Child, Youth and Family Intervention, alongside additional training in areas including mental health first aid, suicide prevention and mandatory reporting.

For many employees, the work is deeply meaningful.

“My favourite part of the job is getting out on Country with the kids, whether it’s sports, fishing or hunting and seeing them engaged, active and learning through those experiences,” says Youth Wellbeing Officer Barnabas.

Supporting culture, sport and community

GYCS also plays an important role in supporting key community events and cultural activities.

In 2025, the organisation took on delivery of the Malandarri Festival, one of the region’s most significant cultural celebrations.

The festival brings together music, culture and community, and the transition to local delivery has been strongly supported by the Borroloola community.

Youth participation in sport is also a growing focus. Regular programs are helping young people stay active while also creating opportunities to participate in regional sporting events and festivals.

Vehicles purchased through CBT funding have helped expand these opportunities, enabling young people to travel to events such as Barunga Festival and regional sporting competitions.

Investing in the future 

The future of Gulf Youth and Community Services will also be supported through the Jirribilyi Borroloola Central development, being delivered by the Community Benefits Trust. 

The development will include a dedicated youth and community precinct designed to support long-term program delivery. 

The precinct will include a Child and Family Centre, youth recreation facilities and office space for GYCS operations. 

Construction is expected to commence in April 2026 with completion anticipated in 2027. 

The new facility will provide purpose-built space for youth and community programs that are delivered across multiple locations, helping strengthen service delivery and provide a central hub for activities. 

A shared commitment to the Gulf 

Mark Furlotte, General Manager of McArthur River Mine and one of the Directors of the Community Benefits Trust, said: “The success of Gulf Youth and Community Services reflects the strength of partnerships in the Gulf. Through the Community Benefits Trust, McArthur River Mine is proud to work alongside community organisations, government and local leaders to invest in programs that support young people and strengthen the long-term wellbeing of the region.” 

The growth of Gulf Youth and Community Services highlights what can be achieved when community, industry and government work together. 

With continued investment, strong local leadership and support from organisations including the Australian Government, Northern Territory Government and community partners, GYCS is creating new opportunities for young people across the Borroloola region. 

For McArthur River Mine, the program represents a long-term commitment to supporting strong and resilient communities in the Gulf and ensuring young people have access to opportunities that help them thrive. TQ