
A Gathering of Young Voices, Culture & Unity
Koorie Youth Summit
Koorie Youth Summit
Victoria’s largest gathering created for & by Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander young people
Koorie Youth Council hosted the sixth annual Koorie Youth Summit, marking the first time the event was held outside Melbourne’s CBD. Over 100 young delegates from across Victoria came together for three days and three nights on the lands of the Wurundjeri and Wathaurong/Wadda-Wurrung peoples in Glenmore.
As one of the largest gatherings designed by and for Victorian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth (aged 18-28), the Summit provided a powerful platform for connection, learning, and cultural celebration. It was an opportunity for young leaders to share their voices, discuss issues that matter to them, and strengthen their community with pride.
We were honored to play a role in delivering this important and empowering event and look forward to continuing our collaboration with the Koorie Youth Council.
Event Details
- Attendance: 140
- Key Elements:
- Community Engagement: Strong partnerships with Indigenous elders, community groups, and stakeholders.
Key Deliverables
Pre-Event Planning:
- Strategic event planning and development of a comprehensive timeline.
- Engagement with First Nations elders, cultural leaders, and key stakeholders to ensure cultural integrity.
- Site planning and infrastructure development tailored to a culturally sensitive event environment.
Event Logistics & Operations:
- Site design and management at Alfred Square, ensuring a respectful and welcoming space.
- Site Design & Layout: Strategic placement of outdoor workshop areas, dining area, exhibition sites and main stage.
- Infrastructure Setup: Overseeing installation of marquees, fencing, stages, seating, and utilities (power, water, sanitation).
- Wayfinding & Signage: Directional and informational signage for efficient navigation.
- Accessibility Planning: Ensuring the summit is accessible and inclusive.
- Integration of sustainability-focused waste management initiatives to align with environmentally responsible practices.
Registration Management:
Marketing and Communications:
Accommodation and Travel Management:
Risk Management and Event Safety: Development and implementation of risk management and event safety plans, direct liaison with emergency services and oversight of compliance, ensuring all suppliers and vendors meet required safety and operational standards. Satisfy all Risk Management, OH&S, and other related legislative requirements, including Australian Standards, Worksafe legislation, and Council Policies such as the Safe Events Policy and approval process. Preparation of a COVID-Safe Plan in accordance with Government Directions.
Program Highlights
Panels with inspiring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and their vision for the future.
broad range of yarning circles a
Sunday festival highlighting deadly artists, musicians and exhibitors
Challenges Overcome
Hosting the Koorie Youth Summit on Country for the first time, outside of Melbourne’s CBD, presented several logistical challenges that required careful planning and innovative solutions. Finding a suitable venue was a key priority—one that was accessible for all delegates, featured large open spaces for cultural activities, and provided dormitory-style accommodation to allow groups to stay together and foster a strong sense of community.
A critical element of the event was the Smoking Ceremony, which meant securing a location where open fires were permitted. Additionally, the venue needed to have indoor facilities for breakout sessions and contingency plans for inclement weather.
Transport accessibility was another key consideration, as many delegates do not drive. We coordinated train and bus transfers to ensure that all attendees could arrive safely and comfortably. Through careful logistical coordination, strong stakeholder engagement, and our experience in event management, we successfully navigated these challenges to deliver an inclusive, culturally significant, and seamless Summit experience.
Results & Impact
The 2019 Koorie Youth Summit was a resounding success, providing over 140 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth with a meaningful and empowering space to connect, learn, and celebrate their culture. Hosting the Summit on Country for the first time fostered a deeper connection to land, culture, and community, reinforcing the importance of gathering in a space that honoured First Nations traditions.
Fruitbowl Events was extremely proud and honoured to be part of this culturally significant event, working alongside the Koorie Youth Council to bring their vision to life. Through strong partnerships, thoughtful planning, and a deep respect for the event’s cultural significance, we played a pivotal role in delivering an inclusive, seamless, and impactful gathering.



