We are absolutely overjoyed to celebrate one of our BBYC young leaders — Jack from Toormina — being named a 2026 ABC Heywire winner. This is a huge achievement and a powerful moment for regional youth voices, particularly here in little Toormi.
ABC Heywire is a national platform that elevates stories from young people living in regional, rural and remote Australia. Each year, it recognises young storytellers whose lived experiences offer insight, courage and leadership — and Jack’s story does exactly that.
In his winning Heywire entry, Jack courageously shares one of the most challenging periods of his life. Through honesty and reflection, he speaks about navigating grief, identity, loss and resilience, and how these experiences shaped his sense of purpose, pride and leadership. His story is deeply personal, yet widely relatable — and a reminder of the strength and insight young people carry and how this leads to tangible change when they are given the space to be heard.
Check it out here: https://www.abc.net.au/heywire/abc-heywire-winners-2026-jack-coffs-harbour-nsw-/105970838
Jack’s entry was supported by our Becoming U youth-focused community connector, who walked alongside Jack to help him shape and record his story — offering encouragement, guidance and belief in his voice throughout the process.
This work was also proudly supported by the Bongil Bongil Youth Collective (BBYC), whose commitment to youth-led creativity, expression and leadership continues to create meaningful opportunities for young people in our region. BBYC’s role in fostering safe, inclusive spaces where young people can explore their stories and strengths was instrumental in Jack’s journey.
We also extend a heartfelt thank you to Grow the Music, who consistently shows up for our young people with warmth and generosity, provided the recording space and creative environment that allowed Jack to bring his story to life. Access to welcoming, youth-friendly creative spaces makes a real difference — and this collaboration is a beautiful example of community organisations working together to support young people to shine.
Jack’s win is not just a personal achievement — it’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when young people are trusted, supported and celebrated.
Through Becoming U, BBYC and Grow the Music, Jack was surrounded by local adults and peers who: Encouraged authentic storytelling, provided access to creative resources and space, deeply valued lived experience as expertise, believed in youth leadership and potential.
ABC Heywire amplifies voices like Jack’s to a national audience, and in doing so, helps shape conversations about what young people in regional communities really need — and what they already have to offer.
As a 2026 ABC Heywire winner, Jack’s story will be:
- Featured and broadcast across ABC platforms, reaching a huge national audience.
- Invited to attend the Heywire Regional Youth Summit in Canberra, where winners come together with politicians, decision-makers, community leaders and media.
- Given a seat at the table, contributing directly to discussions that influence policy, funding and programs impacting young people in regional Australia.
We could not be prouder of Jack. This recognition and the opportunities it will bring belongs to him — and it also reflects the strength of community-led, youth-focused support here on the Mid North Coast.
Congratulations, Jack. Thank you for trusting us with your story, and for showing what’s possible when pain is transformed into purpose. Your voice matters — and we’re so glad the rest of the country gets to hear it.
