DANDENONG refugees have taken some time out to practise their English skills and learn more about their new home.
Men from the CatholicCare Refugee and Settlement Program took their first excursion, to Sorrento, following a successful trip to Phillip Island for women in the program in December.
CatholicCare eastern area community programs manager Kathleen West said the day was so successful it would become an annual event.
“On the return trip to Dandenong the men talked about how much they enjoyed the beautiful weather and scenery and of how beneficial it was to have a relaxing day with friends, practise their English language skills, and learn a little more about Victoria,” she said.
“The excursion to Sorrento also allowed them some time out from the usual stress in their daily lives.”
The group went to Sorrento Historical Park – the site of the first European settlement in Victoria in 1803 – prepared a typical Aussie barbecue, took a walk through gardens and along cliff tops, strolled on the pier and swam at the beach.
“One of the men commented that Sorrento was different to other beaches he had seen, as looking across the sea you can see mountains in the distance,” Ms West said.
“They also marvelled at the many small boats moored in the bay.”
