Handy break for committed teens

– Shaun Inguanzo
COMPLETING a handbrake turn in Dandenong might normally garner the attention of police, but last week it gained support from the mayor and applause from the community.
A total of 14 young people aged 15 to 19 completed Dandenong’s Handbrake Turn program, run by Christian welfare group, Concern Australia, with support from a variety of car industry sponsors and the City of Greater Dandenong Council.
The program, according to its manager, Tom O’Brien, is an eight-week course in which teenagers who have left school early or who lack the confidence to be employed can learn basic mechanical skills to turn their lives around and land a job in the automotive industry.
“We teach them panel beating, spray painting and motor mechanics,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The program has been running in Dandenong for more than 10 years and has built a rapport with local businesses.”
The relationships allow the program to place students on two-week trial periods.
Out of the students of course number 46 who graduated last week, three have already acquired apprenticeships with local businesses.
Mr O’Brien said the course’s instructors and educators were professionals in their fields, and worked as a team to provide ongoing support for students well beyond the duration of the course.
“We help with employment issues, social issues, counselling and so on,” he said.
“It is primarily about getting a job and keeping that job.”
The group receives funding from the City of Greater Dandenong, and sponsorships from businesses like the Royal Automotive Club of Victoria, which donates several cars each term for students to repair.
The group also runs Rev It Up, the equivalent program that caters for people with disabilities.
Greater Dandenong mayor Peter Brown congratulated the graduates and handed them hampers and certificates.
He said the program allowed young people to pursue something they could be passionate about, despite leaving school early.