WesTrac has continued to support the Bindjareb Program - a program that involves helping Aboriginal men from the Bindjareb region, who are currently engaged in the criminal justice system, get back on their feet.
The Aboriginal word ‘Bindjareb’, also known as ‘Pindjarup’, is used to describe a tribal region located in Western Australia. The Bindjareb Program is a joint venture between the Department of Justice (WA) and Carey Training that involves helping Aboriginal men from the Bindjareb region, who are currently engaged in the criminal justice system, get back on the right track so they can re-enter society with a real career. In short, it gives these men a second chance!
The program was first introduced in 2010 and provides nationally accredited industry-focused training to Aboriginal men who are currently incarcerated, while at the same time re-engaging them with their cultural roots and sense of self. Culture is a major part of the program, with Aboriginal mentors on hand to help create a strong connection to ancient customs and language. The program runs for 14 weeks and includes modules related to life skills and confidence.
Here’s an excerpt from the Mandurah Mail that explains how this program got started:
“…the idea came from Aboriginal elder John Alexander who at that time had retired from a national management role in the mining services industry and had joined the Fairbridge Board of governors. Through collaboration between the Department of Justice, BIS Industries, and Fairbridge Western Australia Inc. the project began, and its continued success is supported the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, WesTrac, Caltex, and many other industry partnerships.”
The Bindjareb Program has gone on to help over 150 Aboriginal men, with 85 per cent of those gaining employment. 55 per cent of these men went on to maintain continuous employment for more than 26 weeks.
The picture below depicts a smoking ceremony that occurred at the initial welcoming ceremony at the renovated facility at Karnet Prison. This is an ancient Aboriginal custom that involves smoldering various native plants to produce smoke that works to cleanse participants and ward off bad spirits.
WesTrac has been involved with the Bindjareb project for many years. We provide the program with used Cat equipment that the participants can learn on. We also run site tours, host activities and do hands-on machine operations simulating job site functions in our Lot 88 Demonstration and learning pit. We have stayed involved for years, and will continue to do so, because the program works – both in delivering high calibre employees and having a positive impact on the men, their families and the entire community.
What else does WesTrac do for the community? Click below.
