Larn Masterson says she was overwhelmed when she met Minister for Families and Communities Inclusion and Barwon MP Roy Butler in Lake Cargelligo for the recognition of new funding for the inspiring Down The Track program which helps the village’s youth reach their potential.

The organisation will receive $200,000 per year over the next five years for their work in Lake Cargelligo and Murrin Bridge.

‘’It's amazing, I'm over the moon," she said.

"The funding is giving us security to support so many young people.’’

Larn is the CEO and is backed by a small staff team, board members and local volunteers.

‘’Larn and her team at Down The Track do some great work with local youth, offering mentoring as well as providing youngsters with practical vocational skills that will help set them up for the future," said Barwon MP Roy Butler.

"Even simple things like getting identity documents and learners permits, that can assist in getting them into the workforce."

Larn says it's not easy turning around the lives of the area’s youth ‘’But I do see plenty of green shoots with many wanting to develop new skills."

‘’Many of these kids come from generations of unemployed families so we change the game giving new skills.’’

Barwon Mp Roy Butler, Minister Kate Washington with Larn Masterson at the old pub. [IMAGE SUPPLIED]

Mr Butler said he and the Minister were impressed with work at an old hotel.

"Larn showed us around their latest project.

"Down The Track has acquired the historic Royal Mail Hotel and they are renovating it, learning construction skills.

"When it opens it will also offer young people training in hospitality."

Lachlan's crime rate is 2.2 % over the state average and Aboriginal Legal Aid officers say programs like Down The Track keep teenagers out of jail and in their communities.

Larn said these things are never easy but turning around a big teenage crime rate in a small town is life changing for the whole community.

‘’We don’t turn our back on anybody and this is a crime prevention project as well to keep our youth out of the Juvenile Justice System and focus on support."

Ambitions are high for the old pub.

‘’We are renovating the pub and it can become a restaurant and café , we are building the future of our youth.’’

Larn says she wants her team to learn and be educated.

‘’They can reach their full potential.’’