Community Development Program lives up to its name

The community of Laverton sits in the Goldfields-Esperance region of Western Australia.

Its population of approximately 340 people is enjoying the benefits of the Australian Government’s Community Development Program (CDP).

Wirrpanda Foundation is the CDP Provider and Alan Taeipa is the Activity Supervisor in Laverton.

‘We can really see the CDP working well with a positive effect on community such as table construction. This week we delivered a table to an Elder in community,’ Alan said.

‘She was so pleased with her new table. It allows her to adjust it to accommodate her needs (up/down) and also move outdoors if needed.’

‘Another effect we are seeing of late is the interest in having bikes repaired. The community is seeing our great work and the bikes are now coming through.’

Christopher Hedlam is another community member to benefit from the activities, but in his case, as one of the CDP participants.

‘Being part of the CDP projects has had a positive effect on me as I’m part of a bigger team all working on our skills,’ Christopher said.

‘I like being part of everyday projects such as bike mechanics and carpentry, from creating to repairing, that give back to my community.’

Having previously worked at jobs requiring carpentry and mechanical skills he said it was great to use his skills on the CDP projects and teach others where he could.

Alan Taeipa said that what the team does every day improves relationships with the general community and organisations.

‘We have been busy cleaning our community (removal of rubbish, repairing windows on houses), transporting community members and linking in with the local Shire to assist where we can,’ Alan said.

The team is also building planter boxes, refurbishing old pallets, gardening, constructing a trailer, making bags, sewing and painting.

‘The added benefits are that we are helping participants gain the necessary skills to get a job,’ Alan said.

‘We are also assisting participants to gain their drivers licenses to help them on their pathways.’

Christopher said that he has learned that he can be a great role model to other participants and community and as the future unfolds, he is taking it one day at a time.

‘I could become a Trainer in Cert IV Training and Assessing. I like teaching others and showing others, mentoring the young fellas to get working.’