Community Support Needed to Keep Youth Mentoring Going

The Hervey Bay community has once again shown the power of coming together to support local young people, with Olive Turkish Restaurant raising an incredible $5,000 for the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre’s (HBNC) Youth Mentoring Program over the November–December period.

Through a generous initiative where $5 from every table sale was donated, Olive Turkish Restaurant helped provide vital funding for a program that matches trained volunteer mentors with young people who benefit from positive role models, encouragement, and guidance. This outstanding effort is a reminder of just how much impact local businesses can have when they support community causes.

HBNC CEO Tanya Stevenson said the contribution would have a meaningful and lasting impact on local young people.

“We are incredibly grateful to Olive Turkish Restaurant and everyone who chose to dine there during this period. This $5,000 will directly support young people in our community by helping us continue to provide mentoring, encouragement, and positive connections when they need it most. Community-led initiatives like this truly change lives.”

The Youth Mentoring Program is entirely reliant on donations and community fundraising, and continued support is essential to ensure the program can keep changing young lives.


Sponsors & Teams Wanted: Get Involved with Volley for Youth

To help sustain and grow youth mentoring and education programs across the Fraser Coast, HBNC is calling on local businesses, community groups, and individuals to get involved in a brand-new fundraising event — Volley for Youth.

Tanya said community involvement is critical to the success of the program.

“The demand for youth mentoring continues to grow, and events like Volley for Youth allow the community to come together in a fun, inclusive way while making a real difference. We simply can’t do this work without the support of local businesses, sponsors, and community members.”

We are currently seeking:

  • Event sponsors who want to support youth wellbeing while gaining strong community exposure

  • Teams of all ages and experience levels to jump in and be part of a fun, inclusive competition

Whether you’re a business looking to give back, a group of friends, colleagues, or family members — there’s a place for everyone. No volleyball experience is required, and teams can book now regardless of age, skill level, or background.

Sponsorship opportunities include:

  • 🥇 Gold Sponsor – $2,500

  • 🥈 Silver Sponsor – $500

All sponsorships directly support HBNC’s youth programs and help ensure mentoring opportunities remain available for young people who need them most.


About the Event: Volley for Youth

Volley for Youth is a relaxed, community-focused beach volleyball fundraising carnival, proudly hosted by HBNC in partnership with the Fraser Coast Volleyball Collective.

📅 Date: Saturday, 30th May 2026
📍 Location: Hervey Bay Surf Club
⏱️ Time: 9:00am – 5:00pm
💵 Team Entry: $100 per team (4 players, minimum of 2 female players)

The day is all about fun, connection, and community spirit, featuring:

  • 🏐 Casual round-robin beach volleyball games

  • 🎶 Music and social spaces for spectators

  • 🌭 Sausage sizzle and food stalls

  • 🎟️ Raffle with fantastic prizes

  • 🏖️ Family-friendly activities and community stalls

  • 🏆 Awards for winning team, best dressed, and best team spirit

Every serve, spike, and cheer on the day will help raise much-needed funds for HBNC’s Youth Mentoring Program and other vital youth services.


Join Us and Make a Difference

Inspired by the generosity of Olive Turkish Restaurant, HBNC invites the wider community to keep the momentum going. Become a sponsor, register a team, or come along on the day to support local youth.

Together, we can ensure young people across our region continue to receive the mentoring, support, and encouragement they deserve.

Keen to have a team in the event? 
Book Here