The Victorian Blue Light Youth Camp Inc (VBLYC) is an Australian nonprofit organisation dedicated to the development and support of young people through a variety of youth-focused programs. It operates a purpose-built camp facility located in Maldon, Victoria, where it runs educational and recreational activities aimed at fostering positive growth and engagement among youth[1][2].

History and Background

VBLYC is affiliated with Blue Light Victoria, a larger organization established in 1976 by members of Victoria Police who initially created drug and alcohol-free discos to provide safe and supervised environments for young people. These discos were intended to promote positive interactions between youth and police and quickly gained popularity throughout Victoria, becoming a significant community event. Over time, the initiative evolved into a registered charity and not-for-profit entity supported by Victoria Police, who continue to volunteer and help deliver various programs[2][4].

Programs and Activities

At its core, VBLYC provides an array of programs designed to educate, engage, and empower young people. These include:

• Bike Education School Camps: These camps focus on promoting safe cycling skills in a supportive environment[1].

• Custom Youth Programs: Tailored activities that address specific community or school needs, often developed in partnership with local organizations[1].

• Blue Light Discos and Youth Engagement: While these events originated with Blue Light Victoria’s initial focus, the branch network continues to facilitate discos, mentoring, sports, and other activities that foster peer connection and community safety in alcohol- and drug-free settings[4].

Additionally, VBLYC supports the delivery of evidence-based programs such as Blue EDGE and DASH, which aim to enhance resilience, wellbeing, and engagement among young people. Victoria Police personnel actively contribute to these programs as volunteers[4].

Governance and Community Role

As a registered charity and not-for-profit organisation, VBLYC operates under the Australian Business Number (ABN) 13011942976RR0001. It collaborates closely with Blue Light Victoria and Victoria Police, maintaining a focus on early intervention and prevention programs that benefit children and youth across Victoria[2][3]. The organisation’s branch network is active in metropolitan, regional, and rural areas, ensuring wide-reaching impact and local community support[4].

Impact and Significance

Victorian Blue Light Youth Camp Inc plays a vital role in providing safe, supportive environments for young people to develop life skills, build confidence, and foster positive relationships with peers and community members. By combining recreational, educational, and mentoring opportunities, VBLYC contributes significantly to youth wellbeing and community safety in Victoria.

This summary is based on information sourced from the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission and Blue Light Victoria resources[1][2][3][4].

[1] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/167fbb9d-39af-e811-a962-000d3ad24a0d/documents/d4e91326-4563-eb11-b0b0-000d3ad1ce4e [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/167fbb9d-39af-e811-a962-000d3ad24a0d/documents/08f2b694-f883-ec11-8d20-0022489297f3 [3] https://www.bluelight.org.au [4] https://www.bluelight.org.au/our-history/ [5] https://www.police.vic.gov.au/youth