A group of seven young Tasmanians today graduated from Mission Australia's U-Turn automotive training course, donating a rebuilt Toyota Camry to a Devonport victim of crime.

Mission Australia’s State Director Noel Mundy said the restored Camry was the result of the graduates’ hard work over the 10 week course and was a credit to the participants.

“The Mission Australia U-turn program involves an automotive training course in car maintenance, panel beating and spray painting delivered in a workshop environment by qualified tradesmen,” Mr Mundy said.

“Of the seven participants who graduated from the U-Turn course, five also achieved their Certificate I in Automotive.

“The course aims to break the cycle of motor vehicle theft by engaging participants in ‘hands on’ automotive training while addressing life-skills and personal development issues.

“The target group for the program is young people aged 15-20 who have been or who are at risk of becoming involved in car theft.”

Graduates were presented with certificates by the Minister for Police and Emergency Management the Hon. David Llewellyn and Tasmania Police Commissioner Richard McCreadie.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Mundy also presented Mission Australia’s Temco Safety Award for understanding and application of occupational health and safety guidelines to Jeremy Burke and the
Rumblers Award for participation and achievement to Shannon Pursell.

“This year’s graduates have worked very hard throughout their training and should feel very proud of their achievements,” Mr Mundy said.

“Mission Australia would also like to thank RACT Insurance who kindly donated a years worth of Fire and Theft Insurance and who are a major sponsor of the U-Turn program.”

Mission Australia’s U-Turn program is funded by the State Government through Tasmania Police and the Toyota Camry was donated to the program by Mr Austin Pickering of Lenah Valley.

Mission Australia helps disadvantaged Tasmanians regain their lives and independence by providing employment and training as well as offering youth initiatives to inspire disadvantaged young people.

Mission Australia has almost 280 services across every state and territory in Australia and has five offices in Tasmania, located in Burnie, Launceston, Hobart, Moonah and Devonport.

For more information: Lucinda Bray, Beyond PR, 6223 3333 or 0438 280 486

Mission Australia – Winner of the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Business and Community Partnerships.