Over the past year, 11 minimum security inmates from the Goulburn Correctional Centre has put 7000 hours into regional community projects.
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The team participates in about 20 projects throughout the year, including the set up of the Goulburn Show, the Rose Festival, mowing lawns at Abbeyfield House and the removal of graffiti.
This also includes maintenance work on sporting ovals, river banks, walking tracks, cemeteries and historical houses.
Corrective Services NSW senior overseer Michael Langbein, who has managed the project for 24 years, said inmates gained satisfaction for their work.
“Some inmates may have never used a lawn mower so they are learning basic work skills, which can boost their belief in their abilities when they are released,” Mr Langbein said.
“The centre is grateful for the organisations that have been supportive of the program and provided an outlet for the inmates to participate in work opportunities.”
A spokesperson for Corrective Services NSW said inmates were thoroughly assessed to determine suitability.
The Community Project Program allows inmates to gather and grow a variety of skills for potential employment after release.