The festival will be a place where alternative music and art is celebrated and Mella Miante said the organising committee is predominantly made up of young people.

“At the Street Artz Fest we will have a 20 metre canvas which will be painted on by graffiti artists along with a busking space, music competition, stalls and other creative workshops going all day,” Ms Miante said.

“The aim is to have lots of fun and different things going on to capture a diverse range of creative outlets from all genres of music, art, and dance.

“Port Macquarie is known as a place people retire to, however increasingly more and more young people are moving to the area.

“With that in mind, Port Macquarie is lacking the infrastructure for young people to hang out in a safe place.

“This festival looks to change that and give them an opportunity to showcase their talent or try something different.

“Even in the organisation of the festival young people are taking the lead 

Ms Miante said the festival is also a fundrasier for the Mid North Coast Conservatorium so they can continue to provide a space for people to express their music.

Organisation for the festival began in September last year and Jake Hogenboon and Joseph Hammerton said they were keen to be on the committee.

“I am a graphite sketcher and am getting into music so to be able to help organise a festival like this is really cool,” Jake said.

“I believe there is not enough for young people to do and this is something – especially in Youth Week – that celebrates the different things young people can do.

“Young people get sucked into bad temptations and art and music is one thing that should be promoted more for people.”

“I have a background in community service and I am passionate about helping young people with mental illness issues,” Joseph said.

“I really enjoy helping young people connect with other people and services and this festival is a great chance for that to happen."

Jamie Angus is also an organiser and said that she is passionate about ensuring youth have options.

“I am a creative person and I really want to help let young people know they don’t have to do stupid stuff to get noticed,” Jamie said.

“There are other ways to make friends and do great things and I want to help get that message out there.”

To find out more about the festival to to volunteer time to help contact Mella Miante on 0427 032 345.

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