Corrections Victoria Community Work Partnership Awards 2013

Department of Justice Published by Corrections Victoria, Contact for permission to copy Department of Justice, or for further information: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Corrections Victoria Department of Justice (c) Copyright State of Victoria 2013 GPO Box 123 Department of Justice Melbourne Vic 3001 Authorised by the Commissioner, Telephone +61 3 8684 6600 Corrections Victoria, Facsimile +61 3 8684 6611 Department of Justice, [email protected] 121 Exhibition Street, Melbourne www.justice.vic.gov.au Design by Outsource Design, If you would like to receive this publication in an Port Melbourne, Victoria, Australia accessible format, such as large print, please telephone the Strategic Communication Branch, Print managed by Finsbury Green Department of Justice on 03 8684 0332, or the This publication is copyright. Apart from any National Relay Telephone Service (TTY) 13 36 77 use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968 or email [email protected] or by individuals for study purposes, no part of this publication may be reproduced without permission. In all cases the source of the material must be acknowledged when reproducing or quoting any part of this publication. ISSN 1835-2820

Cover design: The colours used this year are the colours associated with Corrections Victoria the theme of safety. The overlapping hands and range of colours indicate Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 the diversity of people and organisations involved in forming a successful partnership with a common goal. The hands form a star to celebrate the excellence of the nominated community work projects. The colours overall emerge and then fade into each other, giving a sense of emergence, dynamism, development and creativity.

Department of Justice Repay, Rehabilitate, Reintegrate

The role of Corrections Victoria is to manage and facilitate the successful completion of terms of imprisonment or community-based supervision orders imposed by a court or the Adult Parole Board. This includes developing partnerships with community organisations so that offenders or prisoners can complete community work. For prisoners this can mean either undertaking the work within the boundaries of the prison, or on the outside as part of a supervised team. The work serves as a valuable way for offenders and prisoners to make reparation for the harm or damage caused by their offending behaviour, while also reconnecting and reintegrating them back into the community. Sometimes a work placement is all that an offender or prisoner needs to make a fresh start in life as community work can contribute to increased self-esteem and well-being, and give them a new purpose and direction. Many projects also incorporate accredited training which may reduce re-offending by increasing work opportunities and skills. Through community work, offenders and prisoners are involved in a wide range of projects around Victoria, many of which are included in this booklet, which summarises the projects nominated for a 2013 Community Work Partnership Award.

Contents Commissioner’s Message 2 Acknowledgements 3 Category 1: Most Outstanding New Project 5 Category 2: Initiative with Local Councils, Shires or Utilities 9 Category 3: Educational Institution/Educational Programs 13 Category 4: Environmental Sustainability Projects 18 Category 5: Projects Involving Diversity, Indigenous and Aged Offenders/Prisoners 24 Category 6: Supervisor Award 29 Category 7: ‘Peter Lindsay Award’ for Field Officer, Staff, Location or Region 34 Category 8: Most Outstanding Location-Based Project 38 Category 9: Best Ongoing Partnership 41 Category 10: Best in Region 48 Commissioner’s Award: Recognising Outstanding Partnership 49 Minister’s Award: Recognising Excellence in a Long-Standing Partnership 50 Contacts 51

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 1 Commissioner’s Message

The annual Community Work of the nominations every year makes this Partnership Awards are a celebration task a challenging one for all involved in the and recognition of partnerships selection process. established between local communities and Corrections Victoria that contribute This year I am delighted to have the to the reparation, rehabilitation and opportunity to present the Commissioner’s reduction of re-offending by offenders Award, which recognises an outstanding and prisoners. partnership between a prison or Community Correctional Services location, drawn from These partnerships benefit the community, the winners in each category. The Minister as offenders and prisoners make reparation for Corrections, Edward O’Donohue, for their offending through community will present the Minister’s Award, which work. They assist a range of not-for-profit recognises a program with exceptional community agencies to carry out tasks that long-term commitment. they would not otherwise have been able to undertake. Importantly, they benefit local I would also like to take this opportunity communities and offenders who acquire life to thank and congratulate our people and work-related skills, which can support and their community work partners who, their rehabilitation and re-integration into the by establishing and maintaining these community by increasing their employability partnerships, make a real difference in the and reducing their risk of re-offending. community and in the lives of prisoners and offenders, as they meet the compulsory Some examples of the diverse work obligations placed on them by the courts. undertaken through these partnerships include: The theme of the Awards this year is safety • prisoners and offenders building in community work, an area where we friendship seats, and participating continually strive to improve our processes, in mentoring programs, to share essential for the well-being of all, in any community safety and crime prevention successful partnership. messages and This Awards Ceremony celebrates our • offenders working alongside volunteers partnership programs and recognises your from organisations that support commitment, passion and dedication. environmental sustainability, to help restore and maintain important We look forward to continuing to work environmental areas for positive local as partners to make a difference in our outcomes. community. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our panel of 23 independent external judges who so generously gave their time to read and discuss the 69 nominations before identifying the top candidates for each of Jan Shuard PSM the nine categories. The quality and diversity Commissioner, Corrections Victoria

2 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 Acknowledgements

Judges: Mr Andrew Balaam Advisor, COSTA Group Mr Andrew Tenni Chief Executive Officer, Magistrates’ Court of Victoria Ms Anna Georgalis Deputy Emergency Services Commissioner, Standards, Audit and Performance, Office of the Emergency Services Commissioner Dr Bronwyn Naylor Associate Professor, Faculty of Law, Monash University Ms Carol Nikakis Chief Executive Officer, Victorian Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders Mr Denis Moriarty Managing Director, Our Community Mr Frank Covill Independent Prison Visitor, Office of Correctional Services Review Professor Joe Graffam Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research, Development and Training, Deakin University Ms Karenza Louis-Smith Chief Executive Officer, Australian Community Support Organisation Ms Kate Jenkins Commissioner, Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission Mr Kevin Hecker Group Manager, Adult Services, The Salvation Army Dr Leeora Black Managing Director, Australian Centre for Social Responsibility Ms Marietta Martinovic Lecturer, Criminal Justice, RMIT University Sister Mary O’Shannassy Director, Catholic Prison Ministry Victoria Mr Merv Ericson District Governor, Melbourne District, Rotary Australia Mr Michael Annett Chief Executive Officer, Returned and Services League of Australia (Victorian Branch) Dr Natalia Hanley Lecturer, School of Social and Political Science, University of Melbourne Mr Noel McNamara President, Crime Victims Support Association Reverend Ric Holland Chief Executive Officer, Melbourne City Mission Ms Rosemary Smith Manager Koori Programs and Initiatives, Magistrates’ Court of Victoria Ms Sylvia Admans Chief Executive Officer, The R E Ross Trust Ms Toni Aslett Executive Director Victoria, Australian Red Cross Mr Tony Nicholson Chief Executive Officer, Brotherhood of St Lawrence

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 3 Reference Group: Jennifer Cameron Community Work Statewide Manager, Corrections Victoria (Committee Chairperson) Jason MacLeod Manager, Graffiti Removal Program (Judging Chairperson) Shane Kelly Manager, Home Detention Central Unit, Corrections Victoria Melanie Burns Senior Projects Manager, Operations, Corrections Victoria David Lim Workforce Development Officer, Business Services, Corrections Victoria Venina Kaloumaira Strategic Adviser, Koori Justice and Regional Communication, Strategic Communication Branch Josh Griffin Event Coordinator, Awards Australia Southern (CWPA Coordinator)

Others: Sandra Zagoni, Samantha Morgan and Aloma Davey who provided support in the coordination of the awards. Michael Newhouse, Teresa Alexander, Jane Gillard, Jem Diolazo, Malcolm Feiner and Aaron Small, all of whom provided advice and support on media, print and design, and event aspects of the awards.

4 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 1 Most Outstanding New Project

An award for projects that commenced Each prisoner underwent strict safety training operation in the 2012–13 financial year prior to commencing their employment, and have provided community work including an occupational health and safety placements for offenders or prisoners for (OH&S) qualification, work place induction, at least three months. and tools and equipment training.

WINNER The trailer will be used by the CFA, to feed volunteers and the wider community during Assistance to the CFA Emergency an emergency situation, such as a bushfire. Volunteers It includes a full size spit, stainless steel Prisoners from the Metropolitan Remand serving bench, six-burner barbecue, drink Centre have been instrumental in assisting esky and folding trestle tables. the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and its The prisoners excelled in the workplace volunteers in a partnership that involved while completing this project, they took constructing a purpose built portable charge and were enthusiastic about outdoor kitchen/barbecue trailer. contributing to such a great cause. The prisoners manufactured the trailer and “This project provided an opportunity assisted in its design. They worked to a for prisoners to work together to build structured day that replicated a regular something for a voluntary organisation working environment, gaining skills and that provides a vital community service, knowledge in areas of the metal trade enabling it to assist volunteers in the field such as welding, metal fabrication, design, as well as promote the great work it does understanding Australian Standards and through functions and advertising. This spray painting. was a great initiative.” Andrew Tenni, Chief Executive Officer, Magistrates’ Court of Victoria (CWPA 2013 judge)

RUNNER UP Alannah and Madeline Better Buddies Friendship Seat Project In partnership with the Alannah and Madeline Foundation, Aspendale Gardens Primary School, the South East Metropolitan Regional Community Work Program and the Marngoneet Correctional Centre, prisoners have been building Friendship Seats, which offenders then install in primary schools throughout the region. The CFA trailer manufactured by prisoners from the Metropolitan Remand Centre.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 5 Offenders installing a Friendship Seat in the grounds of Kinglake Primary School. The Better Buddies Framework is an Hume Blue Light Disco Trailer initiative of the Alannah and Madeline In order to assist with the growing youth Foundation, designed to create friendly population in Craigieburn, a partnership and caring school communities and to help was developed between Craigieburn Police reduce the incidence of bullying. Station and the Metropolitan Remand Centre (MRC). Prisoners manufactured a purpose- Prisoners from the Marngoneet Correctional built trailer for the Hume Blue Light Disco. Centre have spent a total of 153 hours making the seats, with each seat taking Sergeant Dale Wesselman from the about four and a half hours to construct and Craigieburn Police Station approached the prisoners learning new skills in the process. MRC to build the trailer, which was needed Offenders have been involved in installing to accommodate the safety equipment the seats in schools. required for the discos and would also be used to advertise them. So far 34 Friendship Seats have been installed, with a total of 150 seats to be located in primary schools across the South East Metropolitan Region by the end of the project. “This project was impressive for its multiple impacts through Corrections Victoria, the Alannah and Madeline Foundation, the Department of Education and Avis. It allowed offenders to develop skills and perform meaningful work that connected with the issue of bullying, which had impacted many offenders themselves.” Kate Jenkins, Commissioner, Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission The Blue Light Disco trailer manufactured by (CWPA 2013 judge) prisoners from the Metropolitan Remand Centre.

6 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 The prisoners involved in the project were Working closely with Field Officer Brad required to adhere to strict safety guidelines, Jarvis and Club President Greg Quayle, the which included undergoing tools and offenders also learnt about the importance equipment training and occupational health of teamwork and contributed over 300 and safety qualifications. hours to the project. Working to a structured day, the prisoners At completion, the club held a barbecue enthusiastically completed the task of in appreciation of the work put in to build designing and building the trailer. They the new nets. learnt the skills of the metal trade such as welding, metal fabrication and design. This project has been a catalyst for bigger Lighting and signage for the trailer was projects, with further work planned for 2014. also part of the project. “This project received huge thanks and Through the work of the prisoners, the impressive references from members Hume Blue Light Disco Trailer has of the community who benefited from increased the number of events offered the new facilities at Alfredton Reserve. to the community as well as providing Offenders also benefited by being involved increased safety and security. in the project from planning to execution.” Reverend Ric Holland, “The management of this project was Chief Executive Officer, first class and there were very good Melbourne City Mission safety systems in place. Prisoners were (CWPA 2013 judge) completing work with the police in a positive way, providing a service to the community.” Reverend Ric Holland, Chief Executive Officer, Melbourne City Mission (CWPA 2013 judge)

Net Working Offenders have been instrumental in the construction of four cricket nets at the Alfredton Baseball Reserve in a partnership between the Grampians Regional Community Work Program and the Alfredton Baseball Club. These are an important asset to players, particularly young people learning the sport. The offenders gained significant experiences during the project, including site preparation and layout. They assisted with the erection of poles, boxing for concrete reinforcement, aiding with pouring and laying of concrete, framework erection, wiring of poles and cyclone mesh and the marking out and Offenders working on the cricket nets, installed laying of synthetic pitches. at the Alfredton Baseball Reserve in Geelong.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 7 Colac Turf Club Refurbishment The club’s function facilities are being Offenders from the Barwon South West restored to a standard that reflects the pride Regional Community Work Program are of the Colac community and the Turf Club in the process of completing a significant Committee in this iconic venue. refurbishment of the Colac Turf Club, “The Colac Turf Club is a not-for-profit including resurfacing of the dance floor, group whose venue was in need of repairs restoration of the public bar and two and restoration. This partnership was of feature walls. mutual benefit, as offenders developed Between six and eight offenders work at the good team work and learnt skills to assist club each week and a buddy system has with future employment.” been introduced. The system promotes Andrew Tenni, Chief Executive Officer, pro-social working relationships, in a Magistrates’ Court of Victoria dynamic way that replicates professional (CWPA 2013 judge) trade environments. Individuals are required to rely on and support each other, providing the opportunity to develop working relationships. The offender community work team is involved in all stages of the project, including planning, facilitating and construction. Throughout the project, offenders have developed and refined skills in painting, cleaning and restoration. The project has given them confidence to seek employment within the local community.

These before and after photographs show some of the work completed by offenders, in refurbishing the Colac Turf Club.

8 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 2 Initiatives with Local Councils, Shires or Utilities

An award recognising partnerships Offenders have been directly involved in between local councils, shires or creating and compiling visuals that utilities and Corrections Victoria that are demonstrate the messages in the books. providing community work placement The books will be distributed to 50 children opportunities for offenders or prisoners. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School in St Albans whose parents were involved WINNER with the cultural support program ‘Learn for Books for a Brighter Future Life’ through the Migrant Resource Centre North West. The messages in the books In collaboration with the West Metropolitan have been translated into Vietnamese and Regional Community Work Program, the South Sudanese dialect Dinka. Brimbank City Council, Jesuit Social Services, Migrant Resource Centre North By participating in the project, offenders have West, Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School been able not only to strengthen their numeracy and Dame Phyllis Frost Centre, the Books and literacy skills, but also to help promote for a Brighter Future program has been successful crime prevention in the local area. developed for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) offenders. “This program has beneficiaries at many levels and is very well designed and executed. Under the initiative, offenders produce 50 Co-ordination of the program across several hand-crafted community safety and crime agencies was carried out very effectively and prevention books titled A Responsible ME was one of the keys to success.” Builds a Safer Community. Dr Leeora Black, Managing Director, Each book contains 10 key messages Australian Centre for Corporate Social about understanding and following local Responsibility laws and rules within the City of Brimbank. (CWPA 2013 judge)

These packs, put together by offenders, include the safety and crime prevention booklets created by the offenders. The tote bags, made by women prisoners from the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre, were then distributed to students at Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School. Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 9 RUNNER UP “This is clearly an effective and valued community work program, based on a Free Wheeling Bike Repair Program mutually supportive relationship between This program has established and fostered the partners.” community connections with a partnership between Mount Alexander Shire, Castlemaine Marietta Martinovic, Lecturer, and District Community Health, Windarring Criminal Justice, RMIT University Castlemaine, the East African Community of (CWPA 2013 judge) Castlemaine and Tarrengower Prison. Beechworth Neighbourhood Centre The 12-month program engages female Community Garden prisoners to collect, repair and recondition In partnership with Indigo Shire Council, discarded bicycles. Once repaired, the prisoners from the Beechworth Correctional bikes are donated, together with a new bike helmet and accredited bike education, to Centre have played a significant role in people in need within the community. the construction of a community garden. The garden was created to encourage To date, 16 restored bikes have been community involvement and capacity delivered to Windarring Castlemaine and building as a response to the 2008 Castlemaine and District Community Health, bushfires. with further bikes allocated to the East African Community of Castlemaine. The Beechworth Community Work Team has provided more than 1,000 hours of As well as an excellent contribution to the volunteer labour to the community garden, local community, this hands-on activity has undertaking a number of tasks such allowed women prisoners at Tarrengower as landscaping, carpentry, paving and to develop an understanding of bicycle concreting. mechanics, diagnostic and repairs skills, as well as professional finishing skills The community garden, now considerably involved in restoration. enhanced, consists of 11 raised beds, a

Ken Maddern, program facilitator, Wil Dodson, More than 1,000 community work hours have Community Supervisor and a prisoner are been contributed to the community garden in inspecting bike repairs at the Tarrengower Beechworth. Prison machinery shed.

10 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 gazebo and a four-bay compost system. being collected in the last financial year), New picket gates have been installed at the repair and maintenance of 838 fire hydrants, garden’s entrance as well a new drainage and the upkeep of playgrounds, parks system and pipework. and reserves. The project has created a resourceful The work undertaken by the community community garden and a community hub work teams has resulted in increased civic for a range of interactive activities. pride, cleaner amenities and improved access to public spaces, as well as a “This project provides an opportunity greater sense of safety and wellbeing for prisoners to develop team work, among residents. communication skills and landscaping skills. The garden and resources will The program delivers quality outcomes for continue to be used for education and the Frankston City Council, the broader development of the local community.” community and the offenders. Dr Natalia Hanley, Lecturer, “A long-standing partnership and well School of Social and Political Sciences, run set of programs that have had a University of Melbourne clear benefit for the City of Frankston, (CWPA 2013 judge) as well as offenders.” Beautifying the City of Frankston Dr Leeora Black, Managing Director, Australian Centre for Corporate Social A partnership between the South East Responsibility Metropolitan Regional Community Work (CWPA 2013 judge) Program and the Frankston City Council involves seven community work teams Borough of Queenscliffe undertaking a number of maintenance Conservation Program work-programs in the area. In partnership with the Borough of Work by offenders includes litter removal Queenscliffe, offenders from the Barwon (with more than 1,200 bags of rubbish South West Regional Community Work

Offenders carrying out maintenance work at An offender inspecting a tree that has just Baxter Park in Frankston. been planted by the CCS work team, at the Queenscliff foreshore. Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 11 Program have been involved in the The project has been ongoing for five conservation of local vegetation and months and provides offenders the rejuvenation of land affected by fire. opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to a small, isolated community while The program incorporates the introduction learning new and varied skills. of foliage to the local heritage foreshore and surrounds. More than 150 hours of unpaid community work has been dedicated to the project Under the guidance of a horticulturist, thus far. the offender community work team has cultivated and planted native plants The project has evolved and developed throughout the town and assisted in the since its commencement, with further identification and removal of hazardous opportunities for the community work team plant material. to maintain the park on an ongoing basis. “This is a wonderful engagement of local More than 2,000 hours of unpaid labour volunteers and offenders working together, has been contributed through the program, and the revamped park is a great benefit providing significant benefits for the to the local community. This is clearly Borough’s conservation efforts. an effective and valued community work The partnership with the Borough of program, based on a mutually supportive Queenscliffe continues to grow, with relationship between the partners.” new initiatives and programs Marietta Martinovic, Lecturer, being planned. Criminal Justice, RMIT University (CWPA 2013 judge) “This is a great initiative with productive outcomes. It is a creative approach to a challenging project, with an excellent focus on health and safety. This partnership has benefited both the community and offenders, who have gained skills and training in horticulture.” Mary O’Shannassy, Director, Catholic Prison Ministry Victoria (CWPA 2013 judge)

Ultima Lions Club Park Project The Ultima Lions Club Park Project was initiated by the Swan Hill Rural City Council in partnership with local town volunteers and the Loddon Mallee Regional Community Work Program. The project involves the development of paved Paved pathways and installation of play pathways, revegetation and the installation equipment at the re-established Ultima Lions of play equipment and bollards to Club Park, as a result of the community re-establish the neglected park. work partnership.

12 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 3 Educational Institution/Educational Programs

An award recognising partnerships are also certificates in general education that facilitate programs between a available for adults with culturally and school or other educational institution linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. and Corrections Victoria, or program providers, agencies or individuals who The extensive work undertaken by the positively contribute to the development offenders has allowed EFA to expand of skills and awareness of offenders operations from five to seven days a week, and prisoners. enabling them to maintain their distribution times while reaching more members of WINNER the community.

Eastern Food Alliance The current program has been active since Eastern Food Alliance (EFA) is a not for May 2013 with the aim of being ongoing. profit organisation that provides food relief Since starting, the team has been operating for needy members of the community. at full capacity each week, with some 1,486 In partnership with the South East hours of work already completed. Metropolitan Regional Community Work Program, offenders participate in a program “This is an excellent project with clear that allows them to undertake a variety educational benefits for offenders, who of tasks to sort and distribute food and can gain certifications in several areas.” provide warehouse assistance. Dr Bronwyn Naylor, Offenders complete their unpaid community Associate Professor, Law Faculty, work at the site while gaining a Certificate III Monash University in Warehousing and a forklift licence. There (CWPA 2013 judge)

Offenders sorting vegetables in the Eastern Food Alliance warehouse.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 13 RUNNER UP printed in September this year. The goal is to raise about $7,500. Stir the Pot – Arresting Recipes The Stir the Pot program is an educational “This is an innovative project, enhancing community work project for women the great range of program participant offenders in a partnership between five skills while producing a meaningful organisations: the Jesuit Community product. This project was extremely well School, Fitted For Work, Cancer in Kids considered and delivered.” Auxiliary, The Drum Theatre (City of Kevin Hecker, Group Manager, Greater Dandenong) and the South East Salvation Army – Adult Services Metropolitan Regional Community (CWPA 2013 judge) Work Program. Bushfire Preparation and Response The program enables women offenders to work together as a team, improving their In response to the devastating Black numeracy and literacy skills, to create a Saturday bushfires in 2009, staff and recipe book. The proceeds of the book are offenders from the Hume Regional donated to the Cancer in Kids Auxiliary, for Community Work Program have been research into children’s cancer. pro-active in providing their support and have developed a strong partnership with During each phase of the program, the the Country Fire Authority (CFA) over the women are given the opportunity to last four years. write their stories, which are included as a chapter in the recipe book. They also Forty offenders and 13 staff members have develop illustrations for the book. successfully completed the Maintain Safety at an Incident Scene course sponsored by After nearly 12 months of working on the CFA Victoria. project, offenders have completed 650 unpaid community hours, resulting in 500 The course allows offenders to become copies of the book Arresting Recipes being more aware of the hazards and controls

Offenders engaging in the ‘Stir the Pot’ program Offenders and Corrections Victoria staff and learning computer skills. attending the Maintain Safety at an Incident Scene course, conducted in Shepparton.

14 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 concerning personal safety and the safety 12 prisoners have been actively engaged of others. The course potentially minimises as language literacy and numeracy mentors the damage and loss that bushfires cause within the prison, eight of whom have been to the community and the wider natural selected to participate in a Certificate III in environment. It will make these offenders Education Support. safer participants in bushfire prone areas, when undertaking community work. Part of the program involves prisoners also participating in classroom and The success of this program has led to communication activities with students from the planning of a second course, which is Notre Dame College who are involved in the scheduled for September 2014, with 70 MCP. The program provides educational, offenders and 20 staff members showing life and social skills for students who are interest in attending. at risk of not completing school or gaining employment. “This provides excellent training and a pathway for participants to provide a Students from the College are given an positive community contribution.” understanding of the impact that being sent to prison can have on their lives, family, Kevin Hecker, Group Manager, community, education and employment. Salvation Army – Adult Services Prisoners are also able to learn from the (CWPA 2013 judge) students about understanding a life with Getting It Right Mentoring/Certificate disadvantage. III in Education Support Further development of the program is GO Tafe and the Notre Dame College planned in order to minimise the numbers McAuley Champagnat Programme of young people at risk of entering the (MCP) have partnered with Beechworth prison system. Correctional Centre for the Getting it Right Mentoring Program. Through the program, “This project demonstrates a very considered approach to the challenge of having participants working with school- aged children. It is an excellent mentoring concept and demonstration of how to expand an existing project into the wider community.” Kevin Hecker, Group Manager, Salvation Army – Adult Services (CWPA 2013 judge)

Road Safety Display Trailer In partnership with RoadSafe North East Community Road Safe Council, a not-for- profit organisation, eight prisoners from the Beechworth Correctional Centre Industry Program have constructed a six-by-four foot Students in the McAuley Champagnat Programme enclosed trailer for RoadSafe. involved in a group learning session with relevant input provided by prisoners from Beechworth This community partnership program has Correctional Centre. provided the community with a one stop

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 15 mobile shop for all road users to access Water 2 All information. The trailer is designed to promote Water 2 All is a not-for-profit organisation road safety at community events and across working closely with the community to community roads in north-east Victoria. distribute clean, bottled drinking water and The trailer was built over a six-week period clothing to those in need. In partnership with by the prisoners, during which they learned the West Metropolitan Regional Community valuable skills relating to welding, auto Work Program, offenders gain valuable rewiring, sanding, spray painting and frame experience and practical working skills. construction. Offenders work in Water 2 All’s Community The construction of the trailer by the Opportunity Shop where they are able prisoners has contributed to the vision of to gain a Certificate III in Warehousing, reducing road deaths and serious injuries Certificate II in Retail, and Certificate II in on our roads. Prisoners experienced a General Education for Adults. sense of community involvement that the Offenders have packed and distributed finished product would help educate people 30,000 bottles of water and sorted and on road safety. distributed about 350 kilograms of clothing. “The project is highly beneficial to the This year, the store generated more than broader community as reducing road $2,000 in sales that will go directly to special deaths and injuries is obviously very needs schools in the area. important. Prisoners are able to learn auto Water 2 All also provides 500 young repair and construction skills, and gain a children with healthy drinking water. sense of community involvement.” “This project greatly benefits both Joseph Graffam, Pro Vice Chancellor offenders and disadvantaged people in (Research Development and Training), the community. Offenders are able to Deakin University gain accredited skills, providing potential (CWPA 2013 judge) for further learning and employment. As

The Road Safety trailer, constructed by prisoners Offender working in Water 2 All’s community at the Beechworth Correctional Centre. opportunity shop.

16 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 a result of this project, clean water and for protection from disturbance, and clothing is provided to disadvantaged approximately 365 hectares of weed people in the community.” eradication, followed by planting of relevant vegetation and trees. Frank Covill, Independent Prison Visitor, Office of Correctional Services Review The project gives Indigenous offenders (CWPA 2013 judge) and prisoners an opportunity to contribute to the Aboriginal community as well as Wurdi Youang Project obtain qualifications relating to the work The Wurdi Youang Project is a shared undertaken in the project. It is expected that initiative between the Wathaurong Aboriginal the project will continue until at least 2018. Cooperative, Barwon South West Regional Community Work Program and Marngoneet “The project is of great cultural Correctional Centre. significance to the Wauthaurong people and of great value to humankind, given the Wurdi Youang is an ancient Aboriginal archaeological significance of the stone stone arrangement presumed to relate to arrangement.” solstices and equinox within the boundaries Joseph Graffam, of the traditional land of the Wathaurong Pro Vice Chancellor (Research Development Aboriginal community. Under the Australian and Training), Deakin University Government’s Indigenous Protected Areas (CWPA 2013 judge) Scheme, the project aims to return the land to its pre-settlement condition. Since the project began in 2011, a considerable amount of conservation and land management work has been completed by Indigenous offenders, including three kilometres of fencing, which included fencing the stone arrangement

This aerial photograph illustrates the stone arrangement at the Wurdi Youang property.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 17 4 Environmental Sustainability Projects

An award acknowledging the environment, as the aim is to create a bio- environmental project work contributing diverse forest (trees, shrubs and grasses) towards sustainability, conducted by of native plants that will assist in improving offenders or prisoners in partnership habitat and water quality. The project covers with the community or other agencies. more than 12 hectares and once complete, some 60,000 indigenous plant species will WINNER have been planted. Cardinia Creek Revegetation Project The community work teams develop pride Some 21,500 plants have been planted in their work and contribution to society, by the South East Metropolitan Regional bringing family and friends to see the work and (SEMR) Community Work Program at the expanding the number of those accessing the Cardinia Creek Parklands. parks. The project will continue at this site in 2014, participating in weed control programs In partnership with Parks Victoria, Greenfleet and Holmesglen TAFE, the and planting a further 5,000 plants. SEMR Community Work Teams have “This project involved collaboration with a participated in two tree planting projects, number of organisations, providing clear with 13,000 plants being planted in July environmental benefits, giving offenders 2012 and a further 8,500 at the same location in July 2013. the opportunity for TAFE qualifications and the chance to work alongside community In total, offenders have contributed 1,216 members.” hours of unpaid community work through Kate Jenkins, Commissioner, the tree planting. Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human The work completed by the offenders Rights Commission makes a major contribution to the (CWPA 2013 judge)

Offender learning how to remove plants from plastic tubes ready to be planted.

18 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 RUNNER UP “This is a long-term project that not only has positive outcomes for the The Haven – Rehabilitation Through environment, but also a strong emphasis Conservation on reintegration into the community for The Hume Regional Community Work offenders.” Program’s partnership with The Haven Reverend Ric Holland, commenced in 2008, and work performed Chief Executive Officer, by offenders has made a significant Melbourne City Mission contribution to this rehabilitation site for (CWPA 2013 judge) wild animals. The program also promotes the Eaglehawk Recovery and Sales Yard importance of sustainability and The Eaglehawk Recovery and Sales Yard maintaining the environment. Offenders and Industrial Recycling Centre operates have been able to learn about native in conjunction with the City of Greater animals, their health and creating an Bendigo’s landfill site in a partnership environment that is similar to their natural with Loddon Mallee Region Community habitat to allow for future release. Correctional Services to promote assistance from offenders with material handling, Tasks have included gardening, building including uploading, sorting, warehousing enclosures, painting and carpentry, feeding and preparing the suitable salvaged goods and maintaining the animals as well as for display. developing artistic skills. Offenders learn about recycling, recovery The Haven – Wildlife in Secure Environment and salvage as well as developing an Incorporated is passionate about providing understanding of how councils meet offenders with the opportunity to reintegrate environment and sustainability objectives back into the community, while achieving through landfill. positive outcomes for the environment through caring for wildlife.

Offenders maintaining animal enclosures at This sculpture at the Eaglehawk Recovery Yard The Haven. was made entirely from recycled materials.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 19 The Recovery Yard also deals with the GDP is a not-for-profit organisation and general public, allowing offenders to gain seeks to offer long-term employment customer service skills in their interactions to people with disabilities. Through the with the community. community work partnership, GDP has been able to maximise productivity and Both programs are expected to continue increase financial donations to local well into the future, providing long-term charities and events as a result of its opportunities for this community work recycling and waste reduction efforts. partnership. By working their unpaid hours, offenders “This program provides the community have an opportunity to participate in a of Bendigo with a cost effective model professional working environment and for reducing landfill and minimising obtain further skills. environmental impact.” Offenders contributed 1,100 hours of Andrew Tenni, Chief Executive Officer, unpaid labour in the last year, with the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria benefits directly donated back to the (CWPA 2013 judge) community. GDP Industries Waste Management “This was a long-term project working and Recycling Program with a group supporting people with Geelong Disabled Persons (GDP) Industries disabilities. The money raised by the is a light manufacturing site specialising work is donated to local charities and in waste management and reduction of community groups, giving back to the landfill. In partnership with the Barwon community in a tangible way.” South West Regional Community Work Kate Jenkins, Commissioner, Program, GDP has developed a program Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human where offenders are actively involved in the Rights Commission recycling process. (CWPA 2013 judge)

Gippsland Heritage Park Community Garden As a not–for-profit organisation, the Gippsland Heritage Park Community Garden, in partnership with the Gippsland Regional Community Work Program, offers the community garden as an environmentally sustainable initiative to benefit the community. The goal of the partnership is to provide up to 30 offenders each week with the opportunity to engage in unpaid community work through the construction and ongoing maintenance of the garden. Offenders learn new skills and interact with pro-social community members. Offenders working at the GDP light industrial manufacturing site.

20 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 Once completed, the garden will produce Landmate Sallow Wattle Project home-grown vegetables, herbs and plants In a partnership between the Hopkins and will be accessible for children, adults Correctional Centre and Conservation and people with a disability. Volunteers, the Landmate Sallow Wattle “This partnership demonstrates very Project focuses on the removal of Sallow Wattle, an invasive, spreading bush, from good community involvement and there the Grampians National Park. Removal is evidence of environmental sustainability allows local ground-flora to regenerate, at the site. Offenders learn a good range and encourages more diverse shrub and of skills and engage in pro-social contact overstorey growth. with staff and volunteers, assisting with reintegration into the community.” Up to 10 prisoners at a time with a staff Reverend Ric Holland, member from Hopkins Correctional Centre Chief Executive Officer, are involved in both the planning and the Melbourne City Mission labour for the project. As the prison is (CWPA 2013 judge) an exiting prison, there has been a high turnover of prisoners and ongoing training required. The prisoner team attends weekly, in challenging terrain to remove large volumes of the noxious weed. The prisoners not only complete the work to a high standard, working collaboratively as a team, but they also gain satisfaction from restoring the natural environment of the national park, which in turn benefits both visitors and locals. The project commenced in February 2013 and may become an ongoing activity with Conservation Volunteers.

A no-dig garden in the process of being The extensive spread of Sallow Wattle seedlings established by offenders, at the Gippsland through the Grampians National Park bushland. Heritage Park. Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 21 “The project provided participants with the The prison Landmate crews have ability to learn skills and raise the profile of developed a positive reputation in the local the Hopkins Correctional Centre within the community for providing good quality labour, community while assisting to maintain the recovery support after natural disasters and beauty of the Grampians National Park.” assistance to volunteer groups. Andrew Tenni, Chief Executive Officer, “A positive partnership in which prisoners Magistrates’ Court of Victoria have a chance to feel more connected (CWPA 2013 judge) with the community by working with farmers on a project with great Burrumbeet and Brewster environmental benefits.” Biolinks Project Reverend Ric Holland, In partnership with the Burrembeet/ Chief Executive Officer, Brewster Biolink Landcare Group, prisoners Melbourne City Mission from the Langi Kal Kal Prison have planted (CWPA 2013 judge) a number of trees and built fences along nature corridors on both the Langi Kal Kal Mt Rothwell Prison and the local landholder’s property. In a partnership between Mt Rothwell The group’s vision is to create habitat Biodiversity Interpretation Centre, networks across the landscape, linking Knoxbrooke Inc registered training drainage lines, open bodies of water and organisation and the West Metropolitan rocky outcrops. Regional Community Work Program, offenders are providing work instrumental By having the prisoners work alongside to the development and maintenance of the Landcare Group, farmers are changing the centre. their attitudes towards prisoners and the prisoners are learning new skills about Tasks undertaken by the community work employment and the importance of the team have included removal of weeds, environment. assisting with fire prevention, construction

Landcare and prisoners worked together to plant Offenders spraying weeds at Mt Rothwell. this swamp edge that drains into Deep Spring Creek, Brewster.

22 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 of walking tracks and fences, and planting In this partnership, prisoners are assisting of native trees and shrubs. Offenders have and contributing to the environment while also undertaken nationally-accredited developing and increasing their skills. training modules from the Certificate II in Horticulture. “This program has been very successful in benefiting the environment around At 400 hectares, Mt Rothwell is the largest Maffra, due to the low cost of the traps predator-free ecosystem in Victoria. So far, and the huge demand in the community there has been increased growth of local to address the overpopulation of Indian endangered flora, a decrease in the number Myna birds.” of weeds and the introduction of new Kate Jenkins, Commissioner, species, all due to the work completed. Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human The project has been in operation for more Rights Commission than 17 months and, due to the large (CWPA 2013 judge) volume of ongoing work required at the site, it is regarded as an extremely sustainable project for the future. “This project provided participants with the ability to undertake training and accreditation whilst sustaining the natural environment of Mt Rothwell.” Andrew Tenni, Chief Executive Officer, Magistrates’ Court of Victoria (CWPA 2013 judge)

The Trouble with Mynas The Maffra and District Landcare Network has joined forces with the Fulham Correctional Centre in a partnership that attempts to reduce the population of Indian Myna birds, which are introduced pest birds that aggressively compete with native wildlife for food and habitat. Prisoners have been instrumental in manufacturing the Indian Myna Bird Traps, which Harry Hof, secretary of the Avon Landcare Group developed. In a little over 12 months, 1,000 traps have been manufactured and sold throughout Gippsland and the Yarra Valley, with other Landcare groups also becoming involved. It is estimated that between 1,500 and Harry Hof, Avon Landcare Secretary and Ian 2,000 Indian Myna birds have been trapped Riley, Industry Manager at Fulham Correctional and removed in the Stratford area alone Centre, for the handover over of the first Indian during this period. Myna trap produced.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 23 5 Projects Involving Diversity, Indigenous and Aged Offenders or Prisoners

An award acknowledging projects, Planting Community Seeds is a program which within the structure of the that engages with a particularly difficult to activity, specifically recognise minority reach offender group, many of whom have groups within the offender or prisoner minimal education qualifications and a range population, including those who of other life challenges that often makes are Aboriginal, aged, culturally and engaging in community work problematic. linguistically diverse (CALD), have a disability, are young or female. Grown seedlings are given to local residents at numerous community festivals and JOINT WINNER other events. Offenders also created a recipe book and loose leaf recipes to Planting Community Seeds accompany the distribution of their herbs In this partnership between Preston and and vegetables. Reservoir Adult Community Education, “This project takes a holistic approach Reservoir Neighbourhood House and the and a safe environment is provided North Metropolitan Regional Community for offenders to learn a range of skills, Work Program, women offenders gain empowering them to explore plans for skills and knowledge in a range of future career and skills development.” horticultural practices. These include planning, preparing and planting out Toni Aslett, Executive Director VIC garden beds, plant propagation, Australian Red Cross composting, work farming systems and (CWPA 2013 judge) the maintenance of garden beds through weeding, mulching and fertilising.

Female offenders working with the Field Officer to restore the garden beds at Merrilands Community Centre.

24 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 JOINT WINNER strengthening ownership of behaviour and increasing protective factors such as sense Wathaurong Traditional Land of identity and belonging. Environmental Conservation Indigenous offenders contribute to “This partnership is giving back to environmental conservation within the the community in relevant ways and boundaries of Wathaurong land, as offenders can obtain accredited training part of the partnership between the in occupational health and safety and Wathaurong Aboriginal Cooperative first aid, with opportunities to expand into further training. Through this partnership, and the Barwon South West Regional offenders are gaining pride back in the Community Work Program. community and reconnecting with land Offenders are involved with farming, and culture.” agriculture, horticulture and cultivation of Toni Aslett, Executive Director VIC native plant species. They also participate Australian Red Cross in the eradication of weeds and restoration (CWPA 2013 judge) of significant cultural site, Wurdi Youang, as part of the Australian Government’s RUNNER UP Indigenous Protected Areas Scheme. English For All The program allows members of the Male offenders from CALD backgrounds Wathaurong community to provide gain a pre-accreditation through a reparation and restitution within the partnership with the Dandenong Aboriginal community in a culturally- Neighbourhood House and the South appropriate setting. East Metropolitan Regional Community Work Program. It also actively supports Indigenous offenders in making reparation to the The program provides an opportunity for community with which they identify. This the offenders, who speak little or no English, acts as a deterrent to further offending by to complete their unpaid community work

Offender spraying weeds on the Offenders learning English whilst producing Wathaurong land. occupational health and safety flyers.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 25 hours in a supportive environment that Participants learn safety inspection, caters for their language levels. Offenders how to replace brake and gear cables, learn and improve their English language, adjust brakes and gears, overhaul, adjust develop computer skills, learn workplace and replace bearings, tyre repair and safety, and improve their reading and wheel truing with the guidance of bicycle writing skills. mechanic Matt Doyle. While the offenders attend the English For They also learn to express themselves in All program they also produce occupational a positive manner and are encouraged to health and safety workplace flyers for the help others who are shy to come out of South Eastern Migrant Resource Centre their shell. and the South East Business Network in Dandenong. These flyers are distributed The Fix the Cycle program not only to workplaces in the Dandenong area that involves repair of the bikes, but also employ people from non-English speaking donates them to newly-arrived CALD backgrounds. community members. “This is a valuable project in a very diverse “There are benefits for both the community. Culturally and linguistically community and offenders, who obtain diverse offenders have the opportunity first-aid training as part of the program. to improve their English and learn about There is an emphasis on road safety work place safety.” awareness and a healthy lifestyle, which has a positive impact on the community.” Andrew Balaam, Advisor Costa Group Toni Aslett, Executive Director VIC (CWPA 2013 judge) Australian Red Cross (CWPA 2013 judge) Fix the Cycle Ethnically diverse offenders aged 18–25 years are taught how to fix and service a bicycle in a safe, secure and supportive environment as part of a partnership between the Western Bulldogs Fresh Project, Diabetes Australia VIC, the Phoenix Youth Centre, Second Chance Cycles, the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre and the West Metropolitan Regional Community Work Program. The Fix the Cycle project operates over two separate days. One of the days is for young offenders and the second day is for young people under the age of 18 years who are linked in with community work partner, Fresh.

Bicycle mechanic Matt Doyle guiding an offender through the repair of the brake cable.

26 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 Koori Garden and Cultural “The Koori Garden not only benefits Immersion Program prisoners participating in the Cultural Prisoners from the Melbourne Assessment Immersion Program, but all prisoners Prison (MAP) were involved with and and visitors to MAP. The presentations assisted in the planting and establishment by David Dryden help strengthen the prisoners’ connection to their culture of the Koori Garden and painting the ‘A Boy and heritage.” on a Journey’ mural on a brick wall. Rosemary Smith, The Cultural Immersion Program is run in Manager Koori Programs and Initiatives the Koori Garden and has provided a safe, Magistrates’ Court of Victoria culturally-specific environment. (CWPA 2013 judge) David Dryden, a well-respected Indigenous community member, volunteers his services Mallee District Aboriginal Service fortnightly for the program, discussing Car Detailing culture, background and tribe discipline Indigenous and other offenders are involved with prisoners. Friendships are made in car detailing of the Mallee District and there is a sense of connection. Aboriginal Service (MDAS) vehicle fleet, Prisoners return to the prison calmer which consists of 80 vehicles. The cars and more comfortable after spending are detailed two days a week; one day is dedicated to female offenders and the other time on the program. day for males. The Cultural Immersion Program The partnership between MDAS and encourages all mainstream Aboriginal Loddon Mallee Community Work Program, prisoners located at MAP to attend through Mildura Community Correctional and share experiences, discuss issues Services, commenced after a discussion and become involved in learning and with the MDAS Chief Executive Officer strengthening their culture in addition to about how to involve offenders who attending presentations from a range of undertake unpaid community work at the Aboriginal-specific service providers. site in a meaningful way.

Prisoners gather in the Koori Garden they are An offender providing detailing work on a vehicle creating, to participate in the Cultural Immersion from the MDAS fleet. Program, led by David Dryden.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 27 Offenders who are contracted to the site Mungabareena AWAHS Working have the opportunity to observe positive Program role models within the local Indigenous The ongoing partnership between the community. They also engage with health Hume Regional Community Work Program programs, which include anti-smoking and and Mungabareena Aboriginal Corporation healthy living programs. commenced in 2010, in an attempt to decrease the number of Indigenous Detailing vehicles gives offenders an offenders in the criminal justice system. opportunity to gain employment skills and an opportunity for rehabilitation. The Indigenous offenders contribute to partnership saves MDAS about $5,000 gardening and catering programs to each month. The money saved is used to improve their skills, health and well-being. They participate in community events by fund health programs that assist the entire assisting to set up and cater. They also put Indigenous community. together survival bags for homeless clients “This project provides opportunities for and those admitted to hospital. offenders to learn new skills for future The program helps to build offenders’ employment and rehabilitation, while self-esteem and provides an opportunity providing a service to the community. for them to learn about their heritage, while A healthy living program was developed providing services to the community. which contributes to ongoing health and wellbeing for the Koori community.” The program has grown to include Albury Wodonga Aboriginal Health Service and Rosemary Smith, Beechworth Correctional Centre. Manager Koori Programs and Initiatives Magistrates’ Court of Victoria “This is a great program in which offenders gain confidence from their (CWPA 2013 judge) community work and learn team work. Ongoing support is provided for offenders, aiding in their rehabilitation.” Andrew Balaam, Advisor Costa Group (CWPA 2013 judge)

Offenders maintain equipment and gardens at the Mungabareena Aboriginal Corporation.

28 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 6 Supervisor Award

An award recognising excellence and cent since then. She treats offenders as any continued commitment by a person other member of the public, recognising or team of people not employed by their achievements and giving direct Corrections Victoria, who supervised feedback where needed. Participants offenders or prisoners performing learn food production and budgeting skills, community work. producing jams, pickles and chutneys, which are donated to the community and WINNER also sold at local markets. Caitlin Taylor – Taskforce Caitlin also supported many offenders Through the Money 4 Jam and Jam It to find employment and training after programs, Caitlin Taylor has demonstrated completing their programs. a unique ability to connect with offenders Under Caitlin’s supervision, female offenders in the South East Metropolitan Region, and have completed 930 unpaid community has developed an incredible rapport with all hours in the 2012–13 financial year and of the participants. male offenders have completed 327 hours. The programs are run by Taskforce, a not-for-profit organisation, which aims to “Caitlin has promoted community work in help members of the community in need, general and paid close attention to what in every way possible, from urgent housing pro-social modelling means in practice. to assisting unemployed youth, supporting There is an emphasis on respect, dignity individuals with drug abuse problems and and boundaries.” helping to gain skills for employment. Dr Natalia Hanley, Lecturer, Caitlin began facilitating these programs in School of Social and Political Sciences, November 2012 and offender attendance University of Melbourne has increased from 50 per cent to 70 per (CWPA 2013 judge)

Caitlin Taylor in the kitchen at Taskforce, where she supervises offenders in the Money 4 Jam and Jam It programs. Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 29 JOINT RUNNER UP Marietta Martinovic, Lecturer, Criminal Justice, RMIT University Cheryl Webster – Burwood (CWPA 2013 judge) Neighbourhood House Cheryl Webster is the Primary Supervisor JOINT RUNNER UP of Burwood Neighbourhood House, an organisation that provides affordable adult Louise Griffin – Whim Place learning opportunities, while encouraging Under the supervision of Louise Griffin, participants to gain confidence and a sense offenders in the Grampians Community of belonging. Work Program team transformed unusable land into a garden for the use of the elderly Cheryl works with the South East and intellectually disabled residents of Whim Metropolitan Community Work Program Place, Ballarat. team and takes responsibility for the most difficult community work participants, Louise is the Manager of Whim Place, a guiding and encouraging them to complete 24-hour supported-accommodation facility their community work hours. for aged people with intellectual disabilities, which has partnered with Community She has personally supervised community Correctional Services for the last four years. work participants for more than 14,450 Louise has been a supervisor of community hours during her 14 years of service with work for more than 20 years while employed the program and has been instrumental in with the Department of Human Services. promoting community work within the local community house network. Louise has a hands-on approach to offenders undertaking community work, and “Ms Webster has 15 years of experience has a great belief in the community work and has the ability to work with problematic program and its benefits to the residents community work participants, guiding and of Whim Place. Under her guidance, one encouraging them in their work.” offender painted a farm mural on the

Cheryl Webster points to a recently completed Louise Griffin, Supervisor at Whim Place, who project, where a community work participant has supervised offenders over a period of 20 removed a long-standing ‘trip hazard’ at the years, sits in a garden created and maintained entrance of Burwood Neighbourhood House. by offenders.

30 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 bedroom wall for an unsettled resident, has implemented a thorough induction which has had a positive impact on the process, which involves an individual resident and led to projects for other consultation with each offender or volunteer resident rooms. placed at Vinnies. “Louise is an excellent role model for The efficiency of Colin’s team has allowed offenders due to her thoughtful and the depot to also start a call centre for personal approach in helping people and families in need, as well as to introduce a solving problems.” volunteer-driven truck that delivers food and household items to families. Dr Leeora Black, Managing Director, Australian Centre for Corporate Social A number of offenders have asked to Responsibility continue their placement at the depot (CWPA 2013 judge) beyond their community work obligations, as a result of their positive experiences Colin Kelly – St Vincent de Paul under Colin’s leadership. Society “There is a clear integration of the values As the Centre Manager of Vinnies, South of the organisation with the treatment of Geelong, Colin Kelly is committed to the offenders and volunteers. The number of ethos of the St Vincent de Paul Society and participants has significantly increased providing members of the community with a and the reputation of the organisation ‘hand up’. Working with the Barwon South and awareness of community work West Community Work Program team, this partnerships has been enhanced.” is an approach that Colin has extended to offenders completing their community work Dr Natalia Hanley, Lecturer, at the South Geelong depot. School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Melbourne Managing an average of 15 volunteers (CWPA 2013 judge) totalling 100 volunteer hours each day, Colin

Agency Supervisor Colin Kelly assisting an offender with a transaction.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 31 Chris Sessions – Dhurringile Prison Robert Freene – Korumburra Chris Sessions is the supervisor of the Community Correctional Services Dhurringile Prison Community Work Team, As a highly-valued member of Korumburra consisting of around eight prisoners. Community Correctional Services, Robert Among other projects, the work at Freene has made a significant contribution Connect GV (Billabong Garden Complex) to the community, by establishing and gave prisoners the opportunity to work maintaining partnerships throughout with people with disabilities. As a result, South Gippsland. the complex was able to increase the production and scope of its horticultural In his role as Field Officer, Robert is functions and broaden employees’ committed to providing offenders with horticultural knowledge. work skills that can be used in everyday life. These include tree planting, gardening, As well as being a positive role model for concreting, carpentry, fence building, simple the prisoners, Chris is a firm believer in drainage and weed eradication. teamwork and insists on working with the prisoners rather than just instructing them. Robert and his team have been involved Chris began his role as Community Team in clearing over 14 hectares of parkland at Supervisor in 2007 and he dedicates a great Korumburra. deal of his own time to attending meetings Thanks to Robert’s work, many people in and helping others in the community. the community have different perceptions “Chris Sessions has a positive outlook and of the community work program and now enables individuals to view their personal recognise the great value of such work. lives in perspective, thus helping them to “Robert Freene should be commended take steps to a positive future.” for his extensive 25 years of experience. Mary O’Shannassy, Director, He has been able to establish positive Catholic Prison Ministry Victoria relationships, even with some of the most (CWPA 2013 judge) difficult clients.”

The photo depicts a prisoner working on the Hot Field Officer Robert Freene at Korumburra Public House at Billabong Garden Complex. Park, standing on a bridge made from recycled timber built by the offender work team.

32 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 Marietta Martinovic, Lecturer, “Peter and Keith acknowledge the skills Criminal Justice, RMIT University and limitations of the offenders they (CWPA 2013 judge) work with, and match the work program accordingly. This evokes confidence Keith Beattie and Peter Mangles – building and ensures all participants Lakeside Project feel involved and able to contribute. Keith Beattie and Peter Mangles have Respect for each individual engenders played fundamental roles in the Benalla respect in return, which is evident in Lakeside Community Sports Centre this nomination.” Project, which started in 2011. Mary O’Shannassy, Director, Catholic Prison Ministry Victoria Peter approached Shepparton (CWPA 2013 judge) Community Correctional Services to ask for assistance with the project. He recognised the opportunity for offenders to gain employment skills, as they would be assisting in the building of a new community sports centre. Both Peter and Keith supervise the offenders and work alongside them ensuring safety is addressed. Keith is the primary supervisor and Peter coordinates the different groups to undertake work at the site. Peter and Keith speak highly of the offenders’ work, and have a common goal to create a venue that is available to all community members.

Keith Beattie and Peter Mangles, who supervise offenders at the Benalla Lakeside Community Sports Centre.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 33 7 ‘Peter Lindsay Award’ for Field Officer, Staff, Location or Region Award

An award recognising individual The team consists of eighteen staff, and all Corrections Victoria staff, staff at a members play an integral and meaningful role location or prison, or staff within a in contributing to the ongoing success and region, who showed outstanding achievements of the programs. achievement in community work initiatives and in fostering community Within the North Metropolitan Region, there work partnerships in the community. are 1,100 offenders on current Community This award is named after the late Correction Orders and Parole Orders, Peter Lindsay, as a tribute to his who are mandated to undertake unpaid achievements as a staff member community work. Given the size of the region, actively working in the community. a substantial amount of research and work has helped to develop the overall program in WINNER order to deliver an effective, diverse and most importantly, successful program. Making It Happen In the North Metro Region The 33 work teams operating out of the region each week not only assist various The North Metropolitan Regional non-for-profit organisations, but also provide a Community Work Program was established greater range of meaningful work options for in 2012 to manage a diverse range of low, offenders to complete their mandated hours. moderate and high-risk offenders who report to Community Correctional “The North Metro team have enhanced Services locations. community partnerships by taking a holistic

The North Metropolitan Regional Community Work Program Team, from left to right: Shane Cummings, Justice Officer, Lydia Fayad, Community Work Coordinator, Zoran Skocajic, Community Work Coordinator, Roxanne Mayer-Marks, Community Work Coordinator, James Warren, Senior Community Corrections Officer, Sibel Bulus, Regional Community Work Program Manager, Seza Seren, Field Officer, Daniel Raponi, Community Work Coordinator, Rudolph Rizkalla, Field Officer.

34 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 approach to community work. They Drawing on his industry experience as a have shown outstanding team work builder and stonemason, Rob leads the and dedication to their roles and to work team in the completion of projects the community.” spanning a wide range of locations. Andrew Balaam, Advisor Completed work is highly visible and often Costa Group incorporates restoring and maintaining (CWPA 2013 judge) areas that attract numerous visitors and tourists. One such project was the RUNNER UP re-building of the Hamilton Highway Field Officer Rob Dowdell Pedestrian Footbridge. – Warrnambool Community “Robert Dowdell has fostered Correctional Services partnerships across various agencies, Rob Dowdell joined Warrnambool using local experience to help build these Community Correctional Services (CCS) relationships. He has raised the profile as a Field Officer in November 2010. Rob of the role of community work, gaining supervises the Warrnambool Community recognition in the community.” Work Team’s successful partnerships Toni Aslett, Executive Director VIC with Parks Victoria and respective local Australian Red Cross shires of Moyne, Southern Grampians and (CWPA 2013 judge) Corangamite. The standard of the work completed by Andie Patchett – North West the CCS work team has greatly enhanced Metropolitan Region the profile of the unpaid community work Andrea (Andie) Patchett was instrumental program in the region, and has resulted in the initial planning and implementation in the establishment of new community of the Soft Toy Program in consultation partnerships in areas around Portland, with the North and West Metropolitan Colac and Warrnambool areas. Community Work Teams.

Field Officer Robert Dowdell instructing an Andie Patchett providing a demonstration to offender. offenders participating in the Soft Toys Program.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 35 The program for female offenders Field Officer Robert Richards – commenced in July 2012 and provides Beechworth Correctional Centre those with little or no sewing experience Robert Richards has been the Sports with the fundamental attributes required to and Recreation Officer at the Beechworth make soft toys, including useful skills for Correctional Centre for four and a half everyday life. years. He has been determined to build Once complete, the toys are distributed to on the successful sporting and recreation disadvantaged Aboriginal children through programs offered within the prison and the establishment of partnerships with extend them to the wider community. numerous community agencies. Andie Rob has initiated a number of new ‘off involves offenders in handing out the toys, station’ prisoner and community integration giving them the experience of seeing their programs and has developed new efforts appreciated. partnerships with the local community. He Andie has an extensive background in has entered a prisoner cricket team in the working with prisoner populations, which Albury/Wodonga Super Cricket competition, has assisted her in managing people who established a partnership with the Alpine are marginalised and often subject to a Motorbike Club and Albury/Wodonga range of disabilities. She operates in a Motorbike Club, and involved prisoners in non-judgemental way and provides tasks Crossfit training and boxing fitness classes. of increasing difficulty as participants’ These programs aim to help prisoners confidence and skills progress. bridge the gap between life as a prisoner Through Andie’s guidance some 250 and one that complies with a law-abiding soft toys for disadvantaged children have lifestyle. been made and distributed in the North Rob has also formed a partnership with West Region. the Beechworth Neighbourhood Centre by “Andie Patchett works to create a safe developing a Soft Toy Program. and supportive environment, empowering The money raised through these initiatives women and enhancing the self-esteem is donated to the prison charity Prisoners of offenders.” On the Run, which supports children with Rosemary Smith, special needs. Manager Koori Programs and Initiatives “By developing strong partnerships and Magistrates’ Court of Victoria community ties, Robert Richards has (CWPA 2013 judge) been able to source new programs for prisoners at Beechworth Correctional Centre. Robert has successfully extended programs to involve wider community participation, which results in positive outcomes for prisoners preparing to integrate back into the community.” Rosemary Smith, Manager Koori Programs and Initiatives Magistrates’ Court of Victoria (CWPA 2013 judge)

36 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 Valuing the Contribution of SEMR The SEMR Regional Community Work Field Officers Program is the largest in the State and The field officers in the South East operates 41 work teams each week across Metropolitan Region (SEMR) Community eight local councils. In the past financial Correctional Services are a uniquely special year, work to the value of over $2.5 million group who share a common goal of was completed under the supervision of the wanting to make a difference. They show SEMR Field Officers. With their passion for an outstanding commitment to Corrections the work, these Field officers are constantly Victoria, its staff, offenders and the wider on the lookout for new initiatives and community. community partnerships. Collectively, the SEMR field officers have Field officers also supervise many more than 49 years of experience. Over successful work team projects providing that time they have consistently modelled excellent training and mentoring whereby integrity, accountability and work excellence the offenders have received accreditation for offenders. opportunities. SEMR is conscious of the significant “The program is the largest in the State burnout rate among field officers, and has extensive partnerships with therefore rotates rosters regularly to many community groups, including ensure that they are involved in a variety councils and schools. There is a big focus of work, while continually developing and on safety, with continuous improvements learning new skills. being made.” Andrew Balaam, Advisor Costa Group (CWPA 2013 judge)

Field Officers from the South East Metropolitan Regional Community Work Program Team. From left to right, front row: Bert Macali, Mike Novak and David Box. From left to right, back row: Matthew Parker, Brian McKeever, Simona Chapman, Theo Zographos.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 37 8 Most Outstanding Location-Based Project

An award recognising projects to The women also gain an invaluable support the benefit of the community, with a network and a sense of creativity. Many defined community partner, conducted of the women who have successfully at a Community Correctional Services completed their community work hours location or a prison. have requested to continue with the program as volunteers. WINNER “This project had a very high attendance Knitting for Miracle Babies rate for offenders, who were able to The Knitting for Miracle Babies Program is a enhance various skills and prepare for partnership between Pick Up Stitches, the reintegration into the community.” Miracle Babies Foundation and the West Metropolitan Regional Community Work Merv Ericson, District Governor, Program, which is designed to create a safe Rotary Australia environment where female offenders can (CWPA 2013 judge) productively complete their orders. RUNNER UP The project provides female offenders with an opportunity to learn and develop skills Knitting for Kitty in knitting, using donated wool to craft Using donated wool from Animal Aid hand-made blankets, beanies, booties and opportunity shops, women offenders knit other items, which are then donated to squares, which are then made into blankets families with premature babies through the Miracle Babies Foundation. The items are and coats for lost, unwanted and abused highly sought after as these families often animals as part of the partnership between experience difficulty in acquiring clothing for the Victorian Association for the Care such tiny newborns. and Resettlement of Offenders (VACRO),

Offender knitting a multi-coloured beanie for a Offender knitting blankets for Coldstream premature baby. Animal Aid.

38 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 Jesuit Social Services, Coldstream Animal GAWS is the only animal welfare shelter in Aid, Fitted for Work and the South East Geelong and experiences a high demand. Metropolitan Regional Community Work The pom-poms provide mental stimulation Program. for the cats so that they are well-adjusted for their adoption process. Volunteers from VACRO attend the program and assist in teaching the women how “Geelong Animal Welfare Society needed to knit. While knitting, the women are assistance and the community work offered opportunities to engage in personal program was able to provide a service to development, facilitated by Jesuit Social fill this need. The work by offenders forms Services and Fitted for Work. an important component of the animal adoption process.” Some 161 hours of community work have been completed by the women in the Dr Bronwyn Naylor, program since its introduction in April 2013. Associate Professor, Law Faculty, Monash University The program was due to end in September (CWPA 2013 judge) 2013 however is continuing due to its success and demand. “This is a creative approach to accommodating offenders, allowing flexible hours and providing transport and child care. There is a personal development aspect, through positive reinforcement and support provided to the offenders.” Frank Covill, Independent Prison Visitor, Office of Correctional Services Review (CWPA 2013 judge)

Creative Cats Enrichment Program Offenders participating in the Creative Cats Enrichment Program are involved in making woollen pom-poms to be used as play toys for lost and abandoned cats that are waiting to find homes. The program was developed from an existing partnership between the Barwon South West Regional Community Work Program and the Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS). Using facilities at Geelong Community Correctional Services, offenders have been participating in the program for 18 months, resulting in more than 500 pom-poms being Tim the cat, with Sonia from GAWS, and donated in the last 12 months. examples of the pom-poms made by offenders.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 39 Mildura Light Duties and Home Frank Covill, Independent Prison Visitor, Based Project Office of Correctional Services Review (CWPA 2013 judge) Loddon Mallee Region Community Correctional Services has established a Bendigo Bollard Maintenance partnership with the Salvation Army and the Country Women’s Association for offenders In conjunction with the City of Greater who are unable to participate in community Bendigo Parks and Gardens Department work teams. and Loddon Mallee Region Community Correctional Services, offenders are involved As part of this project, offenders unpick in the maintenance of bollards to form donated woollen jumpers and roll the wool barriers for vehicles, throughout the region. into balls. The Mildura/Millewa Group of the The community work team has enabled Country Women’s Association then knits or a planned maintenance program for the crochets the wool into blankets for donation 4,000 or more bollards to operate at a back to the Salvation Army for people in high frequency. need. To date, 14 blankets have been produced and donated to the Salvation Offenders on the team have benefitted from Army as a result of the project. the development of teamwork as well as learning skills in painting and maintenance. The project gives offenders with specific The work of the team facilitates the needs an opportunity to participate in increased reputation of the City as a well- work, learn a new skill and appreciate the maintained region and represents the importance of recycling. beginning of a growing partnership with the The program has now been operating City of Greater Bendigo. for six months and is sustainable thanks “Offenders are able pay back their to an ongoing supply of woollen jumpers community and The City of Greater for recycling. Bendigo is able to maintain a clean and “This project provides a good alternative safe image through this partnership.” for offenders who are unable to participate Merv Ericson, District Governor, in community work teams to provide a Rotary Australia service to the community.” (CWPA 2013 judge)

Offender unpicking a woollen jumper to recycle An offender who has been removing weeds the wool. from around bollards beside the community work team trailer. 40 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 9 Best Ongoing Partnership

An award recognising partnerships that and fitness instructing, while being have operated successfully for over 12 supported to gain qualifications in fitness. months as at 30 June 2013 and continue Through mentoring, training and support, to deliver positive outcomes for either many residents have obtained the skills, group, or individual offender/prisoner experience and confidence needed to placements for community work. secure paid employment after release from custody. WINNER Through participation in the program, Healthy Lives the YMCA has been able to increase The YMCA has been able to increase its resources and provide further professional volunteer base by partnering with the Judy development to staff while gaining a number Lazarus Transition Centre (JLTC) to provide of new and valuable employees. a program helping to reduce re-offending. “This is a partnership with true meaning, JLTC is a minimum-security prison, housing supporting reintegration into the up to 25 male prisoners nearing the end of community. Great attention is given to their sentences. Residents from the centre each individual placement, and JLTC volunteer for a number of YMCA initiatives residents are treated the same as YMCA in order to pursue their transitional goals employees.” within the community. Karenza Louis-Smith Since 2008, residents from JLTC have Chief Executive Officer, Australian assisted in health centre and administrative Community Support Organisation support duties, marketing and promotion (CWPA 2013 judge)

Allister Brooks, YMCA employee, pictured with an offender after participating in a clean-up exercise at the Yarra River in Docklands.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 41 RUNNER UP In the last financial year, offenders completed a total of 14,440 unpaid Casey Fields, Myuna Farm and the community hours. Old Cheese Factory With an ever-increasing population, the “This long-standing, 20 year partnership City of Casey has benefitted significantly provides opportunities for offenders from its 20-year partnership with the South to have direct involvement with the East Metropolitan Regional Community community and develop skills from a Work Program. Offenders are involved in a variety of projects.” number of projects and programs, including Anna Georgalis, Deputy Commissioner work at Casey Fields, Myuna Farm and the Office of the Emergency Services Old Cheese Factory. Commissioner (CWPA 2013 judge) Each week a team of offenders attends Casey Fields and undertakes a number of Buddhist Temple maintenance tasks such as weeding and planting trees. Work is also completed at The West Metropolitan Regional Community Myuna Farm and the Old Cheese Factory, Work Program first established a which involves cleaning, gardening and partnership with Quang Minh Buddhist fence replacement. Temple in 1997. The team of about 10 prisoners, who are predominantly of Indo- Offenders are able to learn new skills Chinese background, perform community and develop a good work ethic through work at the Buddhist Temple. involvement in these programs, while these community resources are well maintained The work team was established to cater throughout the year, giving families in for the increasing Vietnamese offender the community access to safe, social population in the Western Suburbs. environments at little or no cost. Attending one day a week, offenders learn new skills by undertaking a range of

The grounds at Casey Fields, which are Field Officer, Thang Le, is standing by the maintained and developed by offenders. staircase that was constructed by offenders alongside a trained carpenter.

42 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 cleaning, maintenance and construction a four-year project called Building Stronger tasks at the temple, which covers three and Corangamite Communities. a half hectares. The project focuses on conservation Under the guidance of Community through the introduction of vegetation, Corrections Services Field Officer Thang removal of hazardous weeds and Le, time is taken to develop each offender’s maintenance of facilities in tourist areas. spiritual and cultural understanding. Work commenced on the project in early More than 25,000 hours of unpaid 2012, covering a total of 12 individual community work have been completed townships. Many local residents also since the partnership began. volunteer their time and work alongside the community work team. “The strength of this partnership is its close alignment to cultural aspects, Positive attendance rates have been allowing offenders to reconnect with achieved, together with positive feedback their culture and community. Community from residents and a focus on environmental members and tradespeople work maintenance and benefits. Offenders take alongside offenders, fostering a positive pride in their work and the community work environment and leading to high benefits through increased viability and attendance rates.” liveability of many small townships in the Corangamite municipality. Tony Nicholson, Chief Executive Officer, Brotherhood of St Laurence “The work skills learnt by offenders are (CWPA 2013 judge) fantastic and the sense of community is really strong, with volunteers and Building Stronger Corangamite offenders working together for a positive Communities local impact.” The Corangamite Shire, in partnership Karenza Louis-Smith with the Barwon South West Regional Chief Executive Officer, Australian Community Work Program, has developed Community Support Organisation (CWPA 2013 judge)

Community Kindling Project Through a successful partnership with Connect GV since 2011, prisoners from Dhurringile Prison chop wood into kindling for community members with a disability and aged pensioners. The offenders chop the lengths of pine off-cuts into kindling, and then bag, seal and stack them on to pallets, which are wrapped and then taken to Connect GV. As a major provider of disability services in the Goulburn Valley, Connect GV distributes Offenders dismantling a footbridge in Lismore, the kindling to more than 40 households on which was rotting and unsafe to use. a regular basis.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 43 The kindling project is a successful example work in the form of pathways, gardens of waste being converted into a useful and landscaping, particularly around the product that benefits both members of the new Harmony Centre. Traditional food and community and offenders who learn new medicine plants were planted that are used skills and develop a sense of community at the healing centre, and plants that can involvement. be used for craft e.g. basket weaving. “This proactive and effective project The prisoners have also been involved maximises participation of prisoners from in building a replica hut, based on many different backgrounds. The kindling those that Aboriginal people lived in, on is converted from waste and is much the flats located between Mooroopna appreciated by the recipients.” and Shepparton in 1939 after the Cummeragunja Walk Off. Michael Annett, Chief Executive Officer, The Returned and Services League of The prisoners share close links with the Australia (Victorian Branch) Aboriginal Elders and staff of Rumbalara (CWPA 2013 judge) Justice Services and as a result, gain significant pride in their work. Rumbalara Cultural Program for Indigenous Prisoners “This partnership has been going for Since 2000, Rumbalara Aboriginal Justice 13 years. The close links with Elders is Services has formed a close partnership important, giving prisoners the capacity with Dhurringile Prison, now also including to reconnect with their culture, which has Beechworth Correctional Centre, working relevance in rehabilitation.” on and off prison grounds with Indigenous Sylvia Admans, Chief Executive Officer, prisoners completing a number of projects The R E Ross Trust and developing cultural programs. (CWPA 2013 judge)

Indigenous prisoners have consistently Graffiti Removal Program participated in community work on (West Metropolitan Region) Rumbalara grounds, including construction Established in 2005, the Graffiti Removal Program, which is statewide, is undertaken in the western suburbs by the West Metropolitan Regional Community Work Program in partnership with VicRoads, Wyndham City Council, Public Transport Victoria, Hobsons Bay City Council, Maribyrnong City Council and Brimbank City Council. The program is conducted six days a week by the community work team and involves the removal of graffiti on land that is owned, leased or occupied for a public purpose, as well as private premises that adjoin community assets.

Offenders completed work on establishing the Rumbalara grounds and gardens.

44 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 While undertaking graffiti removal the Kinglake Bushfire Recovery Project offenders also complete other tasks such Since the formation of the partnership as rubbish removal and beautification of between the North Metropolitan Regional sites to enhance the amenity and sense of Community Work Program and Lions safety at the sites. District Kinglake Bushfire Recovery Some 88,638 square metres of graffiti has Committee, the Kinglake Bushfire Recovery been cleaned from 492 sites in the 2012–13 Project has undertaken a significant financial year across the West Metropolitan amount of work to help rebuild lives and Region. Given its success so far, it is communities since the Black Saturday expected that the partnership will continue bushfires in 2009. for years to come. Community work teams have created new “There are clear links to government policy paths for the Kinglake grounds, constructed and local needs, resulting in many benefits an undercover area for children to play for the community. This is an important in, and installed water tanks as well as project and an example that from adversity providing weekly garden maintenance. comes opportunity.” The partnership has allowed for the Sylvia Admans, Chief Executive Officer, rehabilitation of offenders while assisting The R E Ross Trust a community in need. In the last financial (CWPA 2013 judge) year, the program had a 94 per cent attendance rate among offenders, which is extraordinarily high and indicates the commitment of the offenders to ensuring the outcomes are achieved. The Bushfire Recovery Project will continue to provide ongoing support and aid for the rural town of Kinglake.

Two offenders working together to remove Materials for building a fence are unloaded by an graffiti, using a high pressure water system. offender.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 45 “The ongoing commitment to a high need the Goulburn Valley Shire also help to location is outstanding. This is a highly raise funds. valued partnership for both the offenders and the Kinglake community.” Since its introduction, Prisoners On The Run has raised in excess of $1.2 million. Sylvia Admans, Chief Executive Officer, The R E Ross Trust “This program has achieved some great (CWPA 2013 judge) fundraising results, and prisoners are given opportunities to use their initiative and Prisoners On The Run learn new skills through the wide variety A joint collaboration between Beechworth of tasks undertaken.” Correctional Centre and Dhurringile Prison, Anna Georgalis, Deputy Commissioner in partnership with the Prisoners On the Office of the Emergency Services Run program, this initiative raises money Commissioner from fundraising activities for disabled (CWPA 2013 judge) and disadvantaged children in the local community. Originally started in 1988 with Royal Children’s Hospital Good Morwell River Prison, then Won Wron Friday Appeal Prison, with prison closures the partnership moved to the Hume region prisons in 2005. In a partnership between the Metropolitan Remand Centre and the Royal Children’s Prisoners work together to coordinate Hospital, prisoners make items that are fundraising activities, which at times also donated for auctioning during the hospital’s involves their friends and families. These annual Good Friday Appeal. fundraising activities range from an annual fun run, to prisoner-grown plants and soft This year the prisoners built a King and toy sales at local markets. Barbecues and Queen, royal-themed cubby house, festival food sales, a Koori Art exhibition and complete with two thrones and a sale at Beechworth Correctional Centre and drawbridge. The item sold at the auction volunteering at various sporting events in for $2,550.

Items to be donated to children at a Prisoners On Two-storey King and Queen castle cubby house the Run presentation. built by prisoners.

46 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 The partnership has been ongoing for YouthWorks has a fully-functioning six years and is an important way for workshop, where offenders use jigsaws, maximum-security prisoners to still feel part hand tools, sanding and painting equipment of the community. Through this work, they to make toys from second-hand timber that learn valuable cabinetmaking and carpentry is donated by local businesses. skills. The prisoners also learn a sense of accomplishment by producing high quality The program aims to assist offenders in products for a very worthy cause. their rehabilitation and to help disengaged youth to learn from the offenders’ “This is a positive and uplifting program. experience, while also giving back to Very good skills and planning processes the community. are learnt by prisoners, who are motivated by the cause and want to make a strong In the 2012–13 financial year, 40 toys were contribution through their work.” donated. The partnership is committed to expanding to include more partners and Michael Annett, Chief Executive Officer, increase community involvement across The Returned and Services League of and beyond Ballarat. Australia (Victorian Branch) (CWPA 2013 judge) “This is a strong program with significant long-term potential. The young people Toys for Joy involved benefit from the experience and Offenders work alongside disengaged youth the preventative nature of interaction with through a partnership between YouthWorks offenders.” and the Grampians Regional Community Michael Annett, Chief Executive Officer, Work Program, making wooden children’s The Returned and Services League of seats and toys that are donated to the Enjoy Australia (Victorian Branch) Church in Ballarat. (CWPA 2013 judge)

Offenders in the toy workshop. One completes paintwork on a children’s chair.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 47 10 Best in Region

An award for the nomination that has achieved the highest aggregate score among all accepted nominations for a Department of Justice region. Details for each of these projects can be found earlier in this booklet. Barwon South West Region Wathaurong Traditional Land Environmental Conservation Gippsland Region Robert Freene – Korumburra Community Correctional Services Grampians Region Louise Griffin – Whim Place Hume Region Prisoners On The Run Loddon Mallee Region Free Wheeling Bike Repair Program North Metropolitan Region Healthy Lives South East Metropolitan Region (East) Eastern Food Alliance South East Metropolitan Region (South) Caitlin Taylor – Taskforce West Metropolitan Region Books for a Brighter Future

48 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 Commissioner’s Award: Recognising Outstanding Partnership

An award recognising an outstanding The remaining plant material suitable for partnership between a prison or agricultural purposes is fed to animals or Community Correctional Services used as compost at various locations. Regional Community Work Program and Offenders organise and prepare this a community agency or individual. The produce for distribution, and also sort recipient of this award is selected by furniture, clothing and school supplies. the Commissioner, Corrections Victoria, The partnership with Corrections has from the recipients of ‘Winner’ awards in enabled Eastern Food Alliance to categories 1 to 9. expand their operations.

WINNER Supported by the patient, kind and flexible staff at the project, the offenders involved Eastern Food Alliance in this program gain great benefits by The partnership between the South East completing related accredited training, Metropolitan Regional Community Work building their belief that they can learn and Program and Eastern Food Alliance has contribute to their communities. been at capacity since commencing, It is envisaged that this will be a long-term, with almost 1500 hours of assistance by mutually beneficial partnership. offenders provided in the last year. Eastern Food Alliance provides food and other Further information can be found in assistance to members of the community Category 2 Educational Institution/ who have difficulty in obtaining fresh Educational Program. food to feed themselves or their families.

Offenders sort and box donated food at the Eastern Food Alliance warehouse, ready for delivery to those in need in the eastern suburbs community.

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 49 Minister’s Award: Recognising Excellence in a Long-Standing Partnership

This award recognises a long-standing WINNER prison or Community Correctional Services Regional Community Work Prisoners On the Run Program and community partnership Established in 1988 to raise $1,000 that has demonstrated sustained for a sick child, with persistence and positive outcomes for the community determination Prisoners On the Run has and continued excellence. The recipient grown into a significant partnership, raising of this award has been selected by the over $1.2 million over 25 years. The Hon. Edward O’Donohue MLC, Minister program relies on a rural prison as the for Corrections, from nominations that driving partner. It has survived several prison have shown enduring commitment to closures to continue, proving to be an the partnership and steady levels of important and sustainable initiative. achievement over many years. The current partnership between the Prisoners On the Run program, Beechworth Correctional Centre and Dhurringile Prison has provided life-changing experiences for participating prisoners and particularly the disabled and disadvantaged children for whom they are fundraising. Further information can be found in Category 9 Best Ongoing Partnership.

As part of the Prisoners On the Run program, prisoners have worked to raise the funds that purchase gifts like these, in particular lifestyle and learning aids, for distribution to disabled and disadvantaged children. The pictured event, in the Hume Region community, will see the children and their families arrive to a party-like atmosphere, to receive the allocation of gifts of goods that they would not otherwise be able to afford.

50 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 Contacts

Community Correctional Services and prison staff are available to discuss any queries regarding community work programs and can assist community groups to set up a community work site where offenders and prisoners can repay the community. Contact details are available below.

Prisons Contact List Telephone Location Position Number Barwon Prison (Lara) General Manager 5220 8222 Beechworth Correctional General Manager 5728 0041 Centre (Beechworth) Dame Phyllis Frost Centre General Manager 9217 8400 (Deer Park) Dhurringile Prison (East General Manager 5824 8825 Murchison) Fulham Correctional General Manager 5142 3800 Centre (West Sale) Hopkins Correctional General Manager 5352 0500 Centre (Ararat) Judy Lazarus Transition Manager 9320 7888 Centre (West Melbourne) Langi Kal Kal Prison General Manager 5349 4900 (Trawalla) Loddon Prison General Manager 5471 1211 (Castlemaine) Marngoneet Correctional General Manager 5282 0600 Centre (Lara) Melbourne Assessment General Manager 9321 4111 Prison (West Melbourne) Metropolitan Remand General Manager 9217 7999 Centre (Truganina) Port Phillip Prison General Manager 9217 7200 (Laverton) Tarrengower Prison General Manager 5479 8200 (Maldon)

Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013 51 Community Correctional Services (CCS) Contact List Telephone Region/Location Position Number Barwon South West Regional Community Work Program 5564 1025 Region Manager Gippsland Region Regional Community Work Program 5116 5800 Manager Grampians Region Regional Community Work Program 4301 7038 Manager Hume Region Regional Community Work Program 5858 7600 Manager Loddon Mallee Region Regional Community Work Program 5021 6111 Manager North Metropolitan Region Regional Community Work Program 9094 2318 Manager South East Metropoitan Regional Community Work Program 9896 8210 Region (East) Manager South East Metropolitan Regional Community Work Program 8765 5137 Region (South) Manager West Metropolitan Region Regional Community Work Program 9300 6344 Manager CCS – Graffiti Removal Manager 8684 7134 Program CCS – Community Work Manager 8684 7137 Statewide Wulgunggo Ngalu Manager 5188 0000 Learning Place

More information For more information on the services and programs delivered by Corrections Victoria email [email protected] or visit corrections.vic.gov.au. For information on the services offered more broadly by the Department of Justice, visit justice.vic.gov.au.

52 Corrections Victoria: Community Work Partnership Awards 2013

Further Information If you would like any further information in relation to offenders and prisoners undertaking community work please contact Corrections Victoria on phone: 8684 6600, email: [email protected] or visit corrections.vic.gov.au.

Department of Justice