Class number 50 of the Hand Brake Turn program run in Dandenong. Coincidentally, the program’s 50th class was also one of its most successful with the entire 18 students graduating.By Shaun Inguanzo
A PROGRAM that turns young people from social misfits into skilled apprentices had two reasons to celebrate last Friday.
The Hand Brake Turn program operates out of Hilton Street, Dandenong, and is run by Concern Australia.
The eight-week program takes young people aged 15 to 19 under its wings and teaches them motor mechanics to the certification of a pre-apprentice.
Last Friday, 18 young people graduated as Hand Brake Turn celebrated their forming the 50th class to have graduated in Dandenong since the program’s inception 11 years ago.
Hand Brake Turn has taught more than 900 young people the motor mechanic skills that they need to find work.
But according to Hand Brake Turn project manager Bruce Docker, it has also instilled confidence into the students who otherwise could have entered a dangerous anti-social loop of crime or isolation.
“When they come here they are kids with cracks,” Mr Docker said.
“But we turn them around and give them motor mechanic training to a pre-apprenticeship level.”
Last Friday’s graduation was one of the most successful during the program’s 11 years.
The entire class of 18 students worked through eight weeks of motor mechanics, spray painting, panel beating and job training with none dropping out or failing.
“And within a few days of being in the workforce quite a few students have been offered apprenticeships,” Mr Docker said.
And in return for the life-changing experience, Mr Docker said students worked tirelessly on a car to restore it to roadworthiness.
The car is then donated to a community member in desperate need of a vehicle, but unable to afford one.
Last Friday Claudia Goltsos was the fortunate recipient of a restored Nissan Pulsar.
Hand Brake Turn now operates in Geelong, Sunshine and in New South Wales due to its success.
Concern Australia workers provide follow-up support to students for the first 12 months after they graduate.
