Work for the Dole
Regional Skills and parklands
In April 1999, a joint proposal by parklands and Regional Skills Incorporated netted the region a significant Work for the Dole program as a means of supporting our community's youth and unemployed.
The program is used as a vehicle for supporting the region’s youth and unemployed, with work related issues such as work ethics, self-esteem and opportunities for employment. The program also provides the participants with a sense of belonging in the community and a feeling of ownership for projects they have been involved with.
The program has assisted over 820 people. On completion of the program 40-60% of these participants have obtained substantial part-time or full-time employment, or have returned to further education.
The joint venture has highlighted the effectiveness and benefits of quality community programs jointly managed by community organisations. Work for the Dole has provided in excess of $2 million in labour to the regional parklands since the program's inception.
Work outputs
- 6kms of fence demolition and removal
- 55kms of fence construction (electric, hinge joint, and standard)
- installation of two solar units to power fences
- installation of 4 off-stream watering sources
- planting of 78,000 locally native plant species
- installation of 36 fence stiles
- constructed 5kms of walking track
- built 4 bird hides
- built 2 bridges
- heritage surveys at 11 sites
- weed surveys at 13 sites
- vertebrate surveys at 12 sites
- removal and poisoning of 1300 mature exotic trees (figs, willows and false acacias)
- removal and poisoning of 4500 woody weeds and suckers
- installation of post and rail fencing (Gateway Island)
The joint venture has highlighted the effectiveness and benefits of quality community programmes jointly managed by community organisations.
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