NQ Classic Muscle Car Restoration, a great local business that restores classic muscle cars is helping 12 at-risk Townsville young people get skilled up for jobs in the industry.
Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke said that this was a great example of the Palaszczuk government bringing together local business, youth justice programs and the community to help reduce crime.
The Transition to Success (T2S) program provides young people who are outside of the traditional schooling system with a mixture of life skills, structured learning and practical work training, some will also go on to gain their driver licence, senior first aid and construction white card.
“Positive work or training is an essential part of turning young lives around for the better,” Mrs O’Rourke said.
“All of us know a teenager who loves hotting up their car. This is a great chance for at-risk kids to channel that passion, learning new skills and improving their chances of a job.
“This requires a whole of community approach, which is why I welcome businesses coming forward to be part of these efforts.”
NQ Classic Muscle Car Restoration manager Dave Loveridge said students were working with supervisors on a variety of tasks.
“We became involved in T2S because we think small businesses can be part of the solution in reducing youth crime, and because this gives young people an opportunity they wouldn’t otherwise receive,” Mr Loveridge said.
“The students are developing plenty of skills from panel beating and refinishing to welding and body fabrication, while also building their mechanical knowledge.
“By getting hands-on in the workshop, they’re also developing an understanding of general workplace skills that all employers want, including a good attitude, open communication, organisation and teamwork.
“I’m pleased that we can be part of something that gives young people a sense of purpose and achievement.”
Mrs O’Rourke said Townsville was already seeing plenty of success stories come out of the program which provides alternative education, training and skills to young people who are involved, or at risk of becoming involved, with the youth justice system.
Participants, aged 15 – 20, who undertake the 20 week course will graduate with a Certificate II in Engineering Pathways