Broken Hill Correctional Centre staff are working tirelessly to create new learning opportunities for people in custody by engaging them in creative projects including the recent construction of a yarning circle.
“We’re really seeing the benefits of teamwork and cultural awareness through the design and build,” Assessment Planning Officer Trancia Johns said.
Our yarning circle is an ideal outdoor space for education, group meetings, cultural gatherings with Elders and is a safe space for inmates to support each other in times of need she said.
“The Aboriginal Yarning Circle has been built on the prison oval to ensure inmates can connect to country and their cultural identity as part of their journey to rehabilitation, “ she added.
Correctional Services research shows education while in custody significantly increases employment opportunities post-release and decreases reoffending.
“I’m proud of our staff who work tirelessly to engage and help educate offenders, hoping to change their mindset to give them the best chance of becoming law-abiding citizens post-release.” added Ms Johns.
“Art projects are popular among inmates at Broken Hill Correctional Centre, with large-scale pieces being installed throughout the grounds,” she said.
“Our inmates created six stunning murals which allows them to express themselves, art is therapeutic, and inmates tend to be more engaged when they’re doing projects like writing music on old guitars, painting footballs and making NAIDOC banners.” said Ms Johns.
