The Nexus-organised events were at Warracknabeal on Saturday and Horsham on Sunday. Young people were able to show off their scooter, skate and BMX skills and participate in some friendly competition.

Nexus stakeholder engagement worker Jodie Mathews said the events were organised in conjunction with Wimmera youth.

“To organise, we had chats to young people on how they would like the event to be run and what they would like to do,” she said.

“We were lucky enough to get funding to hold the events and get skating legend Renton Millar here to participate.

“It’s a great opportunity for kids to get out there and showcase their skills and allows them to engage in the community.”

Millar is a former Skating World Cup champion and four-time Australian champion.

He said events such as the Mega Shredda helped build positive attitudes about skate parks in the community.

“Sometimes skate parks have negative connotations, but by putting on activities such as this, giving children positive role models and teaching them how to use the park properly, always has a positive affect,” he said.

“These kids love what they do and they travel from all around to participate in events like this.

“Footy and cricket kids get to have events for their sports every weekend, but skating kids don’t get as many chances to showcase their skills.”

He said skate parks had an important place in the community for young people.

“It’s great seeing such a fantastic community facility in Horsham,” he said.

“Skate parks are hugely successful and a really great thing for the whole community.”