U-Turn graduates donate restored car
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25 Sep 2008 |
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A group of young Tasmanians today graduated from Mission Australia's U-Turn automotive training course following the rebuilding and restoration of a 93 Model Hyundai.
Mission Australia’s Community Services Operations Manager Lucy O’Flaherty said the keys to the restored were also handed over to Donna Bennet at the graduation ceremony.
“Ms Bennet was very excited to receive the car and was excited about the car giving her back her independence,” Ms O’Flaherty said...
“During the 10-week course, the U-Turn participants repaired numerous dents on the car, completed an engine service, undertook minor repairs and finished off with a total respray.
“The opportunity for participants to repair a vehicle for presentation to a worthy recipient is one of the most important components of the U-Turn program.”
Graduates were presented with certificates by the Minister for Infrastructure the Hon. Graham Sturges and Tasmania Police Acting Commissioner Darren Hine.
Hazell Bros again provided the Excellence Award for the best performing participant and RACT provided the OHS Award as well as donating the car repaired during the course.
U-Turn is a ‘best practice’ diversionary program for young people who have been involved in, or who are at risk of becoming involved in, motor vehicle theft. The core component of the program is a structured ten-week automotive training course in car maintenance and body work, delivered in a workshop environment.
The U-Turn workshop is located in Hobart, but a supported accommodation service is also available to enable young people from other parts of the State to participate in the program. The program is delivered by Mission Australia, under contract to Tasmania Police, and is funded by the State Government.
In this year’s budget, the State Government announced additional funding for U-Turn to enable two part-time youth workers to be appointed as dedicated post-course support workers. The State Government has also committed ongoing funding for the program until June 2010.
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 486Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites |