Photo credit: pcyc.org.au
PCYC Caboolture has reached a significant milestone, recording 10,000 attendances at its After Dark program since launching in 2023. The achievement represents 10,000 occasions where young people have chosen to spend their evenings playing sport, building friendships, and connecting with mentors in a safe, supervised environment.
Read: $17.5M PCYC Caboolture Project Brings Sport And Support Together
The milestone comes as PCYC Caboolture prepares for another major development, with a new facility on King Street set to open early next year. However, the successful After Dark program will continue operating from its current location at Dickson Park, directly across from Morayfield Shopping Centre.
Program manager Sergeant Mark Haestier says the numbers reflect the trust young people have placed in PCYC as a consistent, supportive space. While the program targets 12 to 19-year-olds, it’s not unusual for older participants to drop by simply to maintain connections and stay involved with the community they have built.
They come here for connection, Sgt Haestier notes, emphasising that there’s no typical attendee. The program attracts sporty kids playing touch footy, music lovers, and many young people who haven’t found their place elsewhere but feel they belong at PCYC.
The program has been supported by five Queensland Police Service officers who patrol the shopping precinct and surrounding areas. These officers have developed positive relationships with young people whilst helping to prevent incidents, contributing to what Sgt Haestier describes as a significant cultural and behavioural shift towards positive change.
PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz has commended the program’s success, highlighting how After Dark creates an inclusive space where young people can genuinely belong. The community’s support has been instrumental in making the program what Sgt Haestier calls the most safe space for young people.
About the After Dark Program
After Dark was established in 2023 in direct response to concerns from police and the community regarding youth anti-social behaviour at Morayfield Shopping Centre. Rather than simply moving young people along, the program offers them somewhere constructive to go.
The free, weekly program is designed for young people aged 12 to 18 who may be experiencing some level of disengagement from community, family, or school. It uses sport as a tool to empower participants by improving their physical health and wellbeing, emotional resilience, self-esteem, and confidence.
After Dark operates after hours at PCYC facilities, offering basketball, boxing, touch footy, and six other endorsed sports in a safe, structured peer environment. Young people can participate in activities, make friends, and engage with program mentors under Queensland Police Officer supervision.
The program’s impact extends beyond just providing activities. Since its launch, there has been a significant reduction in incidents at the shopping centre, demonstrating the positive impact of creating opportunities for young people.
The success of After Dark at PCYC Caboolture shows what’s possible when community, police, and youth services work together to create genuine solutions. With consistent program delivery and a commitment to always being there for young people, PCYC has built something that clearly resonates with local youth.
Read: Regional Reset Program Brings New Opportunities for At‑Risk Youth in Caboolture
As PCYC Caboolture moves most of its operations, including youth programs, gymnastics, and a 24/7 gym, to the new King Street facility in the new year, the decision to keep After Dark at Dickson Park reflects the program’s mission. Accessibility matters, and staying close to where young people gather ensures the program can continue serving those who need it most.
Published 31-December-2025
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