Leaders call for plan input

Wimmera Drug Action Taskforce leaders are calling on residents to have input into a community alcohol and other drug action plan for the region.

The taskforce comprises organisation representatives and community members working across Horsham Rural City, Yarriambiack, Hindmarsh and West Wimmera shires to minimise the harms around alcohol and other drugs.

The Horsham council is also delivering a ‘Youth C.A.N.’ – Changing Alcohol Norms – program funded by Vichealth, which is working to change the culture that young people have with alcohol.

The taskforce has launched a survey seeking opinions on alcohol and other drug issues in the region.

Taskforce co-ordinator Sally Pymer said survey findings would help the taskforce develop a regional community action plan.

“This will identify activities, projects and initiatives that we will all be responsible for making happen,” she said.

“The survey is aimed at parents, grandparents and all caregivers, but all community members are encouraged to complete it.

“The more we hear from the community the stronger the action plan will be.”

Mrs Pymer said people could complete the survey anonymously.

She said all information would be treated confidentially and no identifying information would be kept. The survey closes on April 13. People can access the survey online at www. surveymonkey.com/r/l57dcr6, or by following links on the Wimmera Drug Action Taskforce or Youth Can Facebook pages.