Gosford RSL Invests in the Next Generation of Leaders

Max Potential is one of Australia’s longest-running youth development programs and connects high school students with local communities and business leaders who are trained as coaches.

 The end of the 2024 program culminated in a celebration event at the Club late last month, which brought together 230 community members, including Gosford RSL board and staff members, local businesses, school representatives, officials from Tuggerah Lakes and Brisbane Water Police Districts, and Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch.

Gosford RSL CEO Russell Cooper said the event has become one of the biggest on the Club’s calendar each year. 

"This program is one of our largest community initiatives,” Russell said.  

“The support of our board for 17 years shows the Club’s dedication and commitment to investing in the next generation of leaders. The success of the Max Potential program in empowering young people and developing their personal and community leadership skills is a testament to their belief in its value.”

Over six months, the young adults are taught about leadership, confidence, resilience, motivation and leadership skills. Each student presented entrepreneurial projects related to real-life community issues, such as knife crime prevention, mental health awareness, ADHD, domestic violence, support for disadvantaged youth, bridging generational gaps, recycling and suicide prevention.

The 2024 Max Potential Youth Leadership Program celebration event featured several powerful speeches from key supporters, emphasising the impact and significance of the program on the Central Coast.

Liesl Tesch MP, a long-time supporter of the program, encouraged the young participants to pursue their goals with determination and commitment. She spoke about the difference every young person can make in their community, urging them to think big, step outside their comfort zones and remain focused on making a positive impact.

“The course altered my mentality; it taught me to get things done as soon as possible and to the best of my ability,” said Kian Hill, a Year 11 student from Terrigal High School.

“It taught me to set a high standard for myself, and from talking to my coach David, I realised that if you actually try your hardest to reach that standard, it's nearly impossible to miss it.”

Planning is underway for the 2025 program and Max Potential invites new sponsors, community coaches and eager young adults to join them and continue the journey of personal leadership development. For more info, click here.