Wiping away graffiti

(From left) Adam Milsop, Michael Hogan and Alishia Bowers show their style.

Rob Williams

A PROGRAM has been launched in Ipswich to remove a blight on the city while helping turn around the lives of disadvantaged young people.

Federal MP Shayne Neumann, Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale and BoysTown chief executive Tracy Adams launched the BoysTown Graffiti Removal Program in d’Arcy Doyle Place yesterday.

The project is a collaboration between the Federal Government, Ipswich City Council and BoysTown.

Ms Adams said that over the next two years the project would employ disadvantaged young people to work with a qualified program supervisor removing graffiti from public areas around Ipswich.

“Graffiti is an ongoing issue in Ipswich, as it is in any city, and we hope that by getting local people involved in the clean-up they will become advocates in deterring others,” Ms Adams said.

“Not only is the project improving the local environment it is also a great opportunity to provide young locals with vital paid work experience and training in a supportive environment.

“Most of the young people entering this program are facing issues, including substance abuse, low literacy and long-term unemployment, which prevent them from obtaining employment and participating fully in society.

“Our staff work with young people to help them identify their strengths, build confidence, learn new skills and overcome the barriers that are preventing them from achieving their dreams.”

Speaking on behalf of his fellow youth, Michael Hogan said the main thing he enjoyed so far was teamwork and support.

“I really like working with other people,” he said.

“Ipswich City Council, everyone, has been really good.”

Ms Adams said every young Australian had the right to be an active member of society, and one of the most important ways to achieve that was through work.

“We are proud to be working with the Australian Government and Ipswich City Council to give young people the chance to develop real skills in real jobs earning a real wage,” she said.

Anyone who wants to employ one of the young people from BoysTown should call 3437 2200.