In this episode of Made in Lithgow, Brad Cluff and Ian Iddles sit down with Chris Wade, Manager of PCYC Lithgow and the 2024 PCYC NSW Manager of the Year.

Chris shares his journey from retail and hardware into youth development, and how PCYC Lithgow has become a hub of opportunity, belonging and leadership for young people across the region. From gymnastics and futsal to archery, school holiday programs and the new Fit for Work initiative, Chris and his team are creating pathways for Lithgow’s next generation.

We also discuss:

• The growth of youth sport participation in Lithgow
• The importance of accessible activities for families
• Fundraising success stories (including the new gymnastics air-conditioning!)
• The community response during Lithgow’s recent water crisis
• Building employment pathways for 16–18 year olds
• How local businesses can support youth development

Chris was recently recognised in the Central West Australia Day Honours as Lithgow’s Citizen of the Year — a reflection of the impact he and the PCYC team are making behind the scenes.

If you care about Lithgow’s future, youth opportunity, regional resilience, and practical community leadership, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

🎧 Listen now and support the organisations building our town from the ground up.