How Youth Support Service Lookout07 is Helping Young People Feel Connected on the Sunshine Coast
For many young people on the Sunshine Coast, finding the right support – a place where they feel safe, understood, and connected – isn’t always easy.
That’s where youth centre Lookout07 is making a big difference.
Providing vital youth support across the region, this youth drop-in centre offers a safe and welcoming space where young people can spend time, build confidence, and connect with others in their community.
Through the ETC Community Support Fund, we were proud to support their mission.
With $57,000 in funding from ETC, Lookout07 has been able to cover essential operations costs, keeping their centre doors open to youth on the Sunshine Coast. Meaning more young people can be supported and impacted.
Watch the video or keep reading below
A place where young people can belong
Founded by mental health advocate and former elite athlete Leon Stensholm in 2023, Lookout07 was created to support youth who may be struggling with their mental health or feeling disconnected.
A simple idea. A powerful impact.
The centre welcomes young people aged 12 to 25, offering a safe, inclusive environment where they can:
- connect with others
- take part in activities
- access informal support
- build confidence at their own pace
With a fully equipped gym, basketball court, cricket pitch and dedicated hangout areas, Lookout07 is more than just a drop-in centre. It’s a space where young people can feel comfortable being themselves.
And that matters.
Supporting youth mental health and wellbeing
Access to youth support on the Sunshine Coast plays an important role in helping young people navigate challenges and build resilience.
Through a mix of physical activity, mentoring, and structured programs, Lookout07 supports young people to:
- stay active and engaged
- develop positive routines
- build meaningful relationships
- strengthen their confidence and wellbeing
These everyday moments of connection can have a lasting impact, helping young people feel more supported and better equipped for the future.
Improving access to youth support services
For many young people, having somewhere safe to go after school – or during difficult periods – can be life changing.
We are proud to see that with support from ETC, Lookout07 has been able to continue opening its doors to young people across the Sunshine Coast, making it easier to access help, connection and a place to belong.
Across the region, organisations like Lookout07 are part of a broader network of services supporting young people at different stages of their journey. This includes ETC’s Transition to Work program, which helps young people build skills, confidence and pathways into employment and education.
Together, these services help create stronger, more connected communities for young people.
Community-led support that makes a difference
Lookout07 shows what’s possible when support is local, consistent and shaped around the needs of young people.
It’s a place to show up. To take a break. To feel part of something.
And for many young people, that’s where things start to change.
To learn more about the ETC Community Support Fund and the organisations we support, visit >
https://etcltd.com.au/about-us/community-support-fund/
