27th June 2011
The Oasis Youth Support Network celebrated Drug Action Week to great success on Friday 24 June, offering disadvantaged youths ofSydneyfree activities, entertainment, workshops and a BBQ lunch cooked to perfection by Sydney Roosters players.
One of 750 registered events across the nation, the Oasis Drug Action Week celebrations kicked off at 10am with pumping music, huge jumping castle and information stalls on alcohol and other drugs.
While the line-up at the henna tattooist was seemingly unending, the African drumming workshop was a clear crowd pleaser.
“The highlight of the day for us was Ben from InRhythm who came and facilitated an African drumming workshop,” said Lara Oxman, an Oasis staff member, “It really inspired the young people and got everyone involved.”
Another key activity was the Spin the Drug and Alcohol Wheel, quizzing young people on facts surrounding alcohol and other drugs.
“There were certainly some surprised faces when we revealed the answers to the Spin the Drug and Alcohol Wheel,” said Jason Poutawa, an Oasis staff member, “We can definitely see the penny dropping for some of our kids which is a great thing.”
Beer Goggles were strapped on to many participants, with the challenge of dropping a ping pong ball into a cup holding a prize – generously donated by Joe from the Crown St Grocer.
The Aerosol Workshop provided space for young people to create their own pieces of spray-art under the professional guidance of Glenn Purcell.
Topping the day off was a visit from Roosters players Martin Kennedy and Steve Naughton, who met and mingled with the young people whilst cooking a mean BBQ for all involved.
In keeping with the Drug Action Week aim to promote awareness of alcohol and other drug awareness, participants who collected stamps from all stalls throughout the day received a complementary show bag from Drug Action Week.
The 2011 Drug Action Week was an initiative of the Alcohol and Other Drugs Council of Australia and was scheduled to take place in all States and Territories from Sunday 19 June, to Saturday 25 June 2011.
