When Lilly Dillon first went along to the Brighton Youth Action Group (BYAG) in 2022, she had heard there might be free pizza. What she didn’t know at the time was that the experience would change the way she felt about her community—and help shape the confident young adult she is today.

Now almost 20, Lilly has been part of BYAG since its very beginning and is one of the group’s original founding members. She grew up in the Brighton area, attending Gagebrook Primary School, East Derwent Primary School, Jordan River Learning Federation Senior School and later Claremont College.

Lilly says her first BYAG meeting was simple enough, but it quickly turned into something much bigger. “My partner’s mum found out about BYAG and I heard it was free pizza so I went along,” she laughs. “But then I kept going because we started planning the Big Bangin Youth Night.”

The Big Bangin Youth Night became one of BYAG’s most memorable early achievements – a youth-led event created to give local young people something exciting to be part of. “Our area never really gets anything cool like that, so we wanted to do something cool for local kids,” Lilly explains.

It was Lilly’s idea to involve local creatives and artists in the event. The group reached out to Tasmanian rap artists they knew and invited others to perform, even putting posters up around local schools.

A key turning point for BYAG, Lilly says, was the trust placed in the young people by Brighton Council. “The amazing thing was that Council trusted BYAG to do something like this,” she says. “We got a budget and the opportunity to run more events, and that really kick-started everything.”

Lilly also credits the BYAG coordinators for helping the group flourish. “In those days it was Kylie and Joselle supporting BYAG. They were a big reason we kept coming along. We weren’t just kids to them—they treated us like adults. They’re passionate people and I feel like we’re actual friends. They really look after us.”

Later, youth worker John Flack joined the team, and BYAG members even helped interview the final two candidates for the role. “It was good to have a male youth worker on board too,” Lilly says. “John is always good for a laugh.”

For Lilly, BYAG didn’t just provide activities—it changed her connection to the community. “I hated the Brighton community before BYAG because I didn’t have good memories or connections here,” she admits. “But BYAG changed all that. Now it feels like one big family. I can knock on a neighbour’s door and ask for help. Loyalty is important here and everyone tries to help each other. You’re never really alone.”

During her time with BYAG, Lilly has been involved in many highlights and achievements. The group received both state and national Keep Australia Beautiful Young Legends Awards and a Local Government Professionals Award for Excellence for the Big Bangin Youth Night. They also hosted free community BBQs, dressed up for Halloween celebrations and regularly met with Council to share their ideas and progress.

BYAG members have also had opportunities beyond the local community, including visiting Parliament House and attending two statewide youth forums. Lilly even made an impact on live radio when she spoke with ABC radio host Leon Compton about the difficulties she faced getting to college on time due to late or cancelled buses. Her interview struck a chord with listeners and was replayed multiple times on air. She was also honoured to be nominated for the Brighton Council Youth Volunteer of the Year Award.

Looking back, Lilly believes BYAG helped her build confidence, particularly in public speaking, and helped shine a light on an often-overlooked age group. “There’s a lot of focus on younger kids under 12 and adults, but not much for young adults,” she says. “BYAG helped people realise that.”

Lilly was also involved in the Community Creators program during high school, where she learnt about Asset Based Community Development and participated in a two-day training course exploring how communities can build on their strengths.

Soon Lilly will be beginning a new chapter. She and her partner will be moving to Albury–Wodonga. While she is excited for what lies ahead, leaving Brighton will not be easy. “I’m very sad to be leaving the community,” she says. “But I feel like I’ve gotten so much out of the last few years with BYAG. It’s time for new teenagers to step up and take it on now.”

Once settled in Albury– Wodonga, Lilly plans to undertake an animal rescue course while continuing to pursue her long-term goal of becoming either a lawyer or a youth worker. She also dreams of travelling the world one day – with a visit to Vatican City high on her list.

Her Christian faith, she says, has played an important role in her life. “I believe everything happens for a reason. Whatever God has in store, even setbacks are leading to something, and you never feel alone. Believing in him has made me a better person.”

When she looks five years into the future, Lilly hopes to see one big change in the Brighton area—a dedicated youth space or hub where young people feel truly welcome. “It won’t feel like adults control everything,” she says. “Young people will have what they need and want, especially those who don’t have a lot.”

Before she leaves, Lilly wanted to share one final message for the BYAG team (Kylie, John and Joselle) who supported her along the way. “You guys have had a huge part in my growth into a young adult. I will always remember your dedication and support. Even if I am no longer part of BYAG, I will always be with you in spirit. I love you guys and will carry your support with me wherever my story goes.”

Young people interested in becoming involved in the Brighton Youth Action Group can learn more on Brighton Council’s website or contact Council Youth Worker John Flack on (03) 6268 7000.