Two new trial projects are set to provide valuable work experience and mentoring to disengaged youths.
Canberra PCYC has joined forces with both the Canberra Motorcycle Centre and Wakefield Park Raceway in Goulburn, NSW for the projects which will benefit young people attending Canberra PCYC Diversionary programs.
General Operations Manager of Canberra Motorcycle Centre, Kane Piper, said the business approached PCYC about starting the project as “we just wanted to use our position in the community” to help out.
The project will see young people on Canberra PCYC programs attend the Canberra Motorcycle Centre on a number of designated days, where they will be taught by qualified motorcycle technicians to service bikes, what it takes to become a mechanic and also attend a number of trail bike rides alongside well-known local bike enthusiasts.
In terms of what they hope to achieve, Kane said they are “not really sure for the first one”.
“We want to show that work can be fun. It is not just about being in an office … it’s not like school, it doesn’t matter your personality; in business you can find a spot.”
The project with Wakefield Park will offer a similar experience with participants to be provided work experience on site in all aspects of the raceway – from track maintenance to office support.
“It is about giving these kids a chance to receive some positive role modelling and to gain skills and knowledge on the motoring industry,” said Wakefield Park Raceway Operations Manager, Dean Chapman.
Canberra PCYC Executive Manager, Cheryl O’Donnell, said she appreciates that the businesses are “prepared to take a chance on these kids” and help “support these young people to a positive future”.
Canberra PCYC supports over 600 young people and families each year. Cheryl said projects like these are a vital component of ensuring young people are provided the best opportunities in life.
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