Young Mentors Helping Bridge Burdekin's Digital Divide

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with participants and mentors from the Young Digital Mentors Program. Photo supplied

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Young Burdekinites are helping senior residents build confidence with technology through the Young Digital Mentors Program, an initiative aimed at improving digital literacy while strengthening community connections across the Burdekin.

Facilitated by Burdekin Library, the program pairs young mentors with senior participants to provide one-on-one support with everyday technology, including smartphones and tablets.

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Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the program demonstrated the value of intergenerational learning and community engagement.

“Programs like Young Digital Mentors not only build valuable digital skills, they also bring generations together in a meaningful way,” Cr Dalle Cort said.

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“It’s fantastic to see our young people stepping up to support others, while also developing confidence, leadership and communication skills of their own.”

The Young Digital Mentors Program was originally developed by the State Library of Queensland in 2025 and was first piloted in the Burdekin, making the region the first location in Queensland to deliver the initiative.

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This year's program continues to be delivered by Burdekin Library with support from the State Library of Queensland and the eSafety Commissioner. Training for the young mentors was provided in partnership with Creative Bytes.

Senior participant Inez Larsen said the experience had improved her confidence in using technology.

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“Participating in the Young Digital Mentors Program has been a rewarding experience,” Ms Larsen said.

“I really appreciated the way Andria shared her knowledge in such a supportive, respectful and approachable way.

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“As a result of the program, I have come away feeling more confident and using more fully the capabilities of my iPhone. Thank you Burdekin Library staff and young digital mentor, Andria.”

The program aims to improve digital inclusion by helping older residents develop practical technology skills while giving young people the opportunity to build leadership, communication and mentoring experience.

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This year's young digital mentors were Thomas Lindley, Alexis Lindley, Andria Reinke, William Wiseman, Addison Bonato and Fletcher Sgroi.

Senior participants included Liz Schmidt, Robert Ritchie, Alvin Thomas, Inez Larsen, Margaret McLucas, Michael Irving, Sheron Gaston and Beverley Matthews.

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Burdekin Shire Council has encouraged residents to stay connected with Burdekin Library for information on future programs designed to strengthen digital skills and community connections.

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