Corrections NEWS - Queensland Corrective Services

August 2007
Corrections NEWS
Leaders in corrections: Partners
in criminal and social justice
Inside
North Queensland Custodial graduations
16th Work Program Conference
Playgroup celebrates 10 years
QCS Excellence Awards
Leadership Framework
Literacy & numeracy
Contents
Message from the Minister...4 Playgroup celebrates 10 years at Brisbane Women’s CC....5 Message from the Director-General...6
Leadership Framework...7 Work Program Conference...8–9 Brisbane Correctional Centre...10 Arthur Gorrie graduation...11 QCS Excellence
Awards...12–13 Lotus Glen and Townsville graduations...14–15 advance2work...18 Perspectives…19 Fast news…19–20
Front cover: Clockwise from top left, Intelligence training at the QCS Academy; The Brisbane CC management team; Graduation ceremony at Townsville CC
Improved programs for
intellectually disabled prisoners
Sexual offenders with low cognitive skills can more easily access a
quality rehabilitation program to address their risk of re-offending
following the start of a new program in early July at Wolston Correctional
Centre.
The Inclusion Sexual Offending Program incorporates empirically
grounded methods, materials and processes to deliver effective
rehabilitation to intellectually disabled prisoners.
Sex Offender Program Unit (SOPU) Manager Melissa Braden said
there were high levels of repetition and exposure to core concepts
throughout the program.
“We use simple language, graphics and pictures to communicate
messages,” she said.
“Research shows this helps offenders to integrate and consolidate
their behaviour strategies.”
SOPU Team Leader Christine Tunbridge compiled the program manuals
and has earned high praise from Professor Bill Marshall – the world’s
leading authority on treatment of sex offenders.
“It is easily the best treatment manual of its kind I have ever read,”
Professor Marshall said.
Offender Intervention Programs Manager Melissa Braden, from left to right, Inclusion
Program team members Trudi Avery, Christine Tunbridge (seated) and Michael Thomsen
He was so impressed, he said he will adopt portions of the manual to
use in Canada’s correctional centres.
Christine said the prisoners were highly motivated and had been
looking forward to the program.
“As program facilitators, we don’t see disabilities, but rather offenders
with different learning styles,” she said.
“To succeed, we need to meet them at their level.”
Christine said these prisoners also had poor social abilities and could
be difficult to manage within the broader prison population.
“We hope to see improvements in their institutional behaviour as
well,” she said.
The program will operate twice weekly and is expected to run for six
months.
Deadline:
CORRECTIONS News is published monthly by Queensland Corrective Services for its staff and stakeholders.
The next issue will be distributed on September 12. Deadline for contributions is August 28.
Please send material to the Media and Communications Unit, GPO Box 1054, Brisbane, 4001 or [email protected].
The unit reserves the right to edit contributions.
Photographs should be black and white or colour prints, or high quality digital images.
If you are photographed for Corrections News, you will be required to consent to the use of your personal information in accordance with the Queensland Government’s Information
Privacy Standard 42. The information privacy principles contained within this Standard govern the collection, use, storage, security, and disclosure of personal information. Consent
forms are available on the Intranet or from media unit staff.
Contacts:
Editor Peter O’Halloran phone 3405 5391 Peter.O’[email protected]
Contributors Brad Muir phone 3405 5392 [email protected]; Carly Wood phone 3405 5386 [email protected];
Vanessa Young phone 3405 5390 [email protected] Sharna Liddle phone 3405 5387 [email protected]
Electronic versions of Corrections News are available to QCS staff via the Intranet or to the general public via the Internet at www.correctiveservices.qld.gov.au. Please advise the Media
and Communications Unit at [email protected] if you would prefer a monthly electrionic reminder directing you to the online version.
Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Queensland Corrective Services. No article may be produced in full or in part without the permission of the Editor.
Page / CN August 2007
Left to right, Wolston Correctional Centre Education Officer Beatrice Gould, TAFE lecturer Lynne Pantaur, WCC education officers Rekha Pandya and Roberta Embrey
and TAFE lecturer Peter Burgess in a literacy and numeracy classroom
Storytelling lifts literacy
Prisoners with poor English language skills are breaking down
barriers to further literacy by sharing stories about their diverse
cultural backgrounds.
The innovative activity was developed by education staff at
Wolston Correctional Centre as a way of encouraging prisoners
to use English and, in turn, reap greater benefits from their
literacy classes.
The centre’s prisoner population is drawn from about 30
countries and some prisoners struggle with education and
rehabilitation programs, which are primarily English language
based.
WCC Education Officer Rekha Pandya said it was a simple way
to get prisoners engaged in writing and speaking English.
“We also use computer-based activities, but this new method
is more direct and the benefits are immediate,” she said.
“Prisoners have a wealth of stories to tell, so each day our TAFE
teachers get a different prisoner to present his individual story
using written and oral skills,” she said.
“Other prisoners, who work as tutors, help them to develop
their presentations. The prisoners’ English speaking skills
have improved and they now engage in lively classroom
discussions. They’ve also learnt how to prepare reports and
essays,” Rekha said.
Offender Programs and Services Executive Director Di Taylor
said it was another good example of how education staff
think outside-the-square to meet daily challenges in the
rehabilitation process.
“They have turned what at first appeared an obstacle to
learning, into success,” she said.
“Exposure to other customs and cultures is also making
students more understanding and tolerant of the various
nationalities in prison. This benefits prisoners and staff,” Di said.
The pressure is now on Rekha to tell her story as part of the
ongoing activity. Rekha was born in India, spent many years
working with minority groups in Zambia and no doubt has
much to share.
Woodford water tank partners announced
Two companies will work with Woodford Correctional Centre to manufacture water tanks.
Early last month, Minister for Police and Corrective Services Judy Spence announced that two companies, Linpac
Rotational Mouldings and Slimline Rainwater Tanks, were the successful tenderers.
Linpac will manufacture polyethylene water tanks at the prison while Slimline will manufacture metal water tanks. Six
industry workshops will be used for both manufacturing operations.
Ms Spence said both companies propose to make more tanks than the government’s original proposal of 50 tanks
per week and will employ and train around 95 prisoners each day.
“Working with prisoners these companies propose to manufacture a total of up to more than 330 water tanks per
week once fully operational. Water tank manufacturers have told us there is a massive skillls shortage in the industry
and this project will give prisoners vital skills they can use when they leave prison,” Ms Spence said.
The first tanks are expected to start rolling off the production line late this year.
CN August 2007 / Page FOCAL POINTS
with Minister Judy Spence
Warwick Women’s camp
Warwick Women’s Work camp hosted an information session
at the camp’s headquarters recently, which was attended by
95 representatives from local community organisations.
The group included community service supervisors from 22
organisations from within the Warwick Shire.
Conserving water in
correctional centres
In recent months there has been much discussion about water
use in Queensland prisons.
I recently took the opportunity to take a large media contingent
through Wolston Correctional Centre, to set the record
straight.
It was my intention to show the public, through the media, the
impressive efforts of staff and prisoners to conserve water in
Queensland correctional facilities.
I was extremely impressed to see and hear from the custodial
officers, just how far staff and prisoners have gone to ensure
water is not wasted at Wolston.
It was very productive to be able to demonstrate to the media,
how water restrictions are enforced and encouraged in the
State’s prisons.
During our visit, General Manager Scott Collins explained that
most prisoners were in fact showing a strong commitment to
saving water and had even come up with some new measures
themselves.
I commend the staff at Wolston for encouraging and facilitating
these initiatives, together with the restrictions set up by the
Beattie Government.
The centre, together with the neighbouring Brisbane Women’s
Correctional Centre, has reduced its water consumption by 25
per cent in the last financial year, from 80 mega litres to 60
mega litres.
This was the annual Warwick Shire Supervisors Course which
is held every year to inform project supervisors on the latest
procedural changes and workplace health and safety issues.
The community supervisors were also informed about issues
relating to working with prisoners.
The day gave project supervisors the opportunity to update
their criminal history checks.
Last year, the camp performed 12,360 hours work on 10
projects.
This included about 120 hours over a 10-day period at the
World Cup Polo Crosse Event held at Morgan Park in April.
Helena Jones Correctional Centre Manager Julie Steinheuer
said the annual information session was a great opportunity
for QCS staff and community representatives to get together
and discuss areas of common interest that are beneficial to the
projects in their area.
Local police, shire councillors and members of the Warwick
Community Advisory Committee (CAC) also attended the
session.
A morning tea and light lunch was prepared and served by
offenders.
Julie said the information session was a great success.
“We had positive feedback from members of the community
and we started planning new projects and established many
new contacts.”
In facilities that in many ways are like a small town – housing
major industry warehouses, large kitchens, educational
centres, staff, and of course a large number of prisoners – this
is a fantastic result.
Prisoners at both centres have reduced the amount of water
used daily by more than 50 litres per prisoner.
I encourage staff at the Wacol precinct to continue in their goal of
a further 25 per cent reduction in water use this financial year.
The Beattie Government, together with Queensland Corrective
Services, is working hard to reduce the impact of the drought.
At the information session, from left, Warwick Women’s Work Camp Field
Supervisor Rona Frankcombe, BWCC General Manager Lidia Pennington, CAC
members Sue Fox, Cathy Brosnan, Sergeant Andrew Grafton and Helana Jones
Manager Julie Steinheuer
Each prison in south-east Queensland has a Water Efficiency
Management Plan and corrective services officers monitor this
policy.
I appreciate that prisoners are not monitored during the 12
hours they are locked down, but prisoners caught over-using
showers can be breached and punishments can include a loss
of privileges or being moved to a more restrictive part of the
prison.
These shower restrictions save up to 35 megalitres a year
which is a 10 per cent saving and the equivalent of more than
15 Olympic swimming pools.
Through the use of grey water, reduced shower times, water
efficient fittings and staff and prisoner vigilance, Queensland
Corrective Services can continue to lead the way when it comes
to conserving the State’s most precious resource.
Page / CN August 2007
President of the Warwick Rugby Union Club, CAC member and local Police Sergeant
Andrew Grafton, Field Officer Suzette Burton-Wright and Acting Inspector Mike
Curtain with a sign refurbished by prisoners
Photo courtesy of the Warwick Daily News
Save the Children Playgroup founders Kate
Ellis, left, and Pam Dunn with their gift from
BWCC’s Playgroup
Ten years of productive fun for Playgroup
A program that bring mums and their children together to
play at Brisbane Women’s Correctional Centre (BWCC) has
celebrated 10 years of success.
About 800 children have attended the Playgroup Program
since it was started at the old BWCC, adjacent to Boggo Road
Gaol, in 1997 by Kate Ellis and Pam Dunn.
The pair operates the Save the Children Mobile Playscheme and
have worked tirelessly over the past decade bringing mothers
and their children together for structured play and activities.
Children are brought together by the program to enjoy
playing, singing, healthy eating, storybook reading and other
activities.
BWCC Counsellor Robyn Ernst said it also strengthens
the mother-child bond, which encourages mothers to act
protectively towards their children.
“The mothers also build appropriate parenting skills which
they can use when released from custody,” she said.
“It involves learning how to respond appropriately towards
children, including how to play and enjoy your child.
“Mothers become more confident and are better prepared to
handle the responsibilities and demands of motherhood when
they rejoin their families in the community.
“Playgroup is also an opportunity for children living within
BWCC to mix with children from the community,” Robyn said.
Minister for Police and Corrective Services Judy Spence joined
volunteers, centre staff, external agencies, and mums and kids
for a morning tea to celebrate the anniversary.
She praised the program and thanked all those who have
contributed to its success.
“Playgroup provides mothers with a safe, drug-free environment
where they can spend time with their children, learn parenting
skills and develop a family bond,” she said.
BWCC General Manager Lidia Pennington said a child health
professional from Queensland Health attended Playgroup
fortnightly and monitored the health and development of
children accommodated at the centre in a friendly, noninvasive way.
“This also helps mothers to become more aware of their child’s
developmental milestones,” she said.
“Child Safety workers also attend Playgroup with children who
are in-care within the community.”
Currently, eight BWCC offenders and their children attend
Playgroup, along with an average of 12 children who come into
the centre to visit their mums.
The program has been supported by donations of toys and
equipment from community groups such as the Zonta Club of
Brisbane.
The donations have helped establish the Cassandra Weddell
Memorial Library, which gives parents and children access to
high quality children’s literature.
Women and their children have lived together in custody in
Queensland from as early as 1829.
Minister Judy Spence at the
10th anniversary celebration
CN August 2007 / Page From the
DG’s desk
with Director-General
Frank Rockett
Our future leaders
The future of any organisation depends on its ability to continually
develop its leadership ranks. We recognise the importance of
investing in staff and leadership training as a critical step in building
our future.
This investment was further identified in the Review for managing the
learning and development needs in Queensland Corrective Services.
Information and comment provided to the review pointed to the need
for a leadership framework and an expanded suite of programs and
activities for developing potential leaders and managers within QCS.
A draft suite of programs and activities has been developed and is
available on the intranet for comment.
The proposed leadership framework identified five leadership
qualities. Our leaders should be:
• outcome focussed
• have personal drive and integrity
• be strategic thinkers
• have productive working relationships, and
• should communicate with influence
The proposed suite of programs will provide opportunities for
employees on a broad range of classification levels. They will be rolled
out over the current financial year. Leaders are found in all areas and
all regions, so most of the activities will be available Statewide. For
practical reasons, the large group-based programs will continue to be
run in Brisbane.
The programs will cover area such as:
• induction for new employees and for newly promoted officers
• information and activity sessions for aspiring leaders
• programs for emerging supervisors and for general managers
• programs to support officers within management positions
• executive development programs
A number of the programs will deliver nationally-recognised industry
qualifications at Certificate IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma level.
We are planning for the full suite of programs to be rolled-out
progressively over the next 12 months. It will commence with an
updated Induction program being available by the end September
this year.
While many of the programs’ presenters will be QCS employees,
experienced leaders and managers from outside of the Agency will
also participate.
The proposed suite of activities also recognises that not all leadership
and management development is related to a course. Opportunities
to undertake project work, work shadowing, mentoring, and engaging
with other jurisdictions also needs to be developed.
The QCS Academy is responsible for the overall development and
delivery of the programs. The final suite of programs will be the most
extensive range within an Australian correctional jurisdiction.
Page / CN August 2007
Community Advisory Committee members, from left, Kevin Schneidewin, Robyn
Hale, Narelle Herzig, Geoff Kent and John Westwood
Prison industries beautify local parks
Prisoners from Wolston Correctional Centre are giving back to
the community with 16 park benches built for the Jindalee area.
The construction of the park benches was a collaboration
between the Wolston and Brisbane Women’s Correctional
Centres Community Advisory Committee (CAC), Brisbane City
Council and Wolston Correctional Centre (WCC).
Each bench was made with materials funded by Brisbane City
Council and built by prisoners at the WCC Industries workshop.
CAC Chair John Westwood said the park benches project was part
of the CAC’s Building Bridges program, which aims to cement
relationships between the community and correctional centres.
“Local Rotary and Bushcare organisations have been
progressively installing the benches in public areas and parks,
where they can be used by the community,” he said.
“Building Bridges projects are non-commercial and noncompetitive to local industry.
“We aim to give back to the community by filling a need without
competing with other businesses,” John said.
WCC Industries Manager Ross Copland said the process of taking
the CAC’s design, making modifications, building a prototype
and producing the 16 benches was enthusiastically embraced
by the trade instructors and prisoners.
“The instructors and offenders wanted to make sure the finished
product was both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to sit
in,” he said.
“The park benches were manufactured in the engineering and
coating workshops.”
Minister for Police and Corrective Services Judy Spence unveiled
a plaque dedicating the benches to the community at a ceremony
at Wolston Creek recently.
Representatives from the CAC, Sumner Park Rotary Club, Brisbane
City Council and Queensland Corrective Services attended.
The park benches are installed at Wolston Creek, Neighbour
Street Park, Coucal Track, Mt Ommaney Park, Mt Ommaney
Walkway, Nosworthy Park, Cliveden Avenue Park and Blackheath
Road Park.
QCS Leadership Framework
Developing tomorrow’s leaders today
There will be a stronger emphasis on equipping staff at all levels of Queensland Corrective
Services with the knowledge and skills to be future leaders following the formation of a
Leadership Framework.
QCS staff will have better training programs and more opportunities to train under the
framework.
QCS Academy Executive Director Alan Butler said the revamp of training follows
recommendations contained in recent reviews of the Agency and its training needs.
“Well trained leaders are essential for our future,” Alan said.
“We need a structure that will help identify and develop potential leaders.
“The framework does that by setting out what is required and expected of leaders at all levels
and follows up with a suite of programs to reinforce and develop those core skills.
“Staff will be able to compare their current skills and behaviours with a profile of what is
required of a leader in their area,” he said.
“They can then give consideration to planning their training from there.”
The revamped training packages are a combination of effective existing programs and new
ones.
“Most of the programs and training activities will target a specific staff classification level
within corrections,” Alan said.
“The programs will flow sequentially from induction through to executive management.”
The training will be available for custodial, Probation and Parole and central office staff.
Applicants will require their supervisor’s support to enrol.
Some components, like the Induction program, can be completed online by staff in their
workplaces.
Others, like the Aspiring Leaders program, will be delivered to individuals or small groups,
including at regional locations.
Large group-based activities will continue to be conducted at the Academy in Brisbane, although
the Academy is endeavouring to provide programs such as the Early Manager’s Program in a
regional location each year also.
All training, irrespective of the location, will be directly linked to the Academy under the new
Leadership Framework.
The Academy will progressively roll out the suite of programs and activities during this financial
year.
The proposed timeline for the expanded suite of programs is;
• Executives Program by October 2007
• Newly Promoted Officer program by November 2007
• Emerging Supervisor Program by February 2008
• Career Development Program by March 2008
• the Aspiring Leaders Program by June 2008
• two Manager programs by February 2008
Further information about course options is available on the intranet in the Training area of the
Support pages.
CN August 2007 / Page Work Program
Winton hosts
Keith Allen’s contribution
to Clermont Work Camp
recognised
Long-serving Work Program Field
Supervisor Keith Allen was presented
with a Certificate of Appreciation by
Director-General Frank Rockett following
the Work Program Conference.
Mr Rockett travelled to Claremont to
visit Keith, who is in hospital battling
illness.
Keith started his career in corrections
as an Honorary Community Corrections
Officer in Clermont during the late
1980s.
Conference delegates, including Community Advisory Committee members, during their inspection of Winton Work Camp
He later took up a paid role as a Work
Program Field Officer, not long after the
Clermont Work Camp opened in 1992.
While Keith has a long history of
volunteer work for his local community,
he says he earned a living changing
tyres.
“So when the job came up with
corrections, I thought I could do what I
love and get paid for it,” Keith said.
He has continued to work with offenders
at Claremont since and looks forward
to racking-up 15 years’ service this
November.
Capricornia Correctional Centre GM
Steve Green, left, presents Blackall
Mayor Les Wheelhouse with the award
for Most Effective Single Maintenance
Project
Left to right, McKinley Shire’s Steve Fleming and Tim
Volmer with Julia Creek Work Camp Field Supervisor
Kevin Maude
Mr Rockett said Keith’s commitment to
his community was a great match with
the Work Program’s intentions.
“When you look around this region,
you see community facilities, tourist
attractions and other projects that Keith
and the Work Camp have helped build
and maintain,” Mr Rockett said.
“Keith’s made a great contribution to
his community and the camp.”
Left to right, DG Frank Rockett, Belyando Shire
Community Advisory Committee Chair Malcolm Pidgeon
and Townsville Correctional Centre GM Steve Green
QCS currently operates 11 Work Program camps
• Darling Downs Correctional Centre manages Mitchell, Dirranbandi,
Charleville and St George camps
• Capricornia Correctional Centre at Rockhampton manages Clermont,
Blackall and Springsure camps
• Townsville Correctional Centre manages Boulia, Julia Creek and
Winton camps
• Brisbane Women’s Correctional Centre manages Warwick Women’s
camp
Capricornia Correctional Centre officer Peter Bont,
left, and DG Frank Rockett, right, visit Clermont Work
Program stalwart Keith Allen in hospital
Page / CN August 2007
16th Annual Work Program Awards
The Work Program annual conference reviewed the past year and planned for the future
Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) Director-General Frank Rockett
announced this year’s winners of the Work Camp Awards during the
16th Annual Work Program Conference in Winton earlier this month.
The conference was hosted by Winton Shire Council and attended by
shire councillors and Community Advisory Committee members from
around the State and senior QCS staff.
The two-day meeting included a tour of Winton Work Camp, inspection
of work completed by offenders, a formal reporting and planning
session and the awards dinner.
Mr Rockett said Work camps contributed more than 134,700 hours of
labour valued at more than $2 million to community service projects
last year.
“Work camps are a valuable resource for the communities they serve
and play an important part in offender rehabilitation,” Mr Rockett
said.
The top award – the Bunny Powne Perpetual trophy for Best Capital
Works Project went to Clermont Work Camp for their work with
Belyando Shire Council to help save the endangered Northern hairy
nose wombat.
Prisoners at the camp erected a surrounding wall to the wombats’
burrow in their Epping Forest sanctuary located about 150 kilometres
North West of Clermont, and planted native shrubs and grasses in the
area.
The award for Most Effective Single Maintenance Project went to
Blackall Work Camp for their effort to reconstruct 350 metres of
footpaths in the main street of Isisford.
Manpower supplied by the Blackall Work Camp enabled this longawaited work and other town beautification projects to be completed
for the benefit of residents and visitors.
Mr Rockett also spoke about Work camps playing an increased roll in
the day-to-day operations of low-security prison farms.
Winner of the Best Contribution to any Community Event or Service
award was Dirranbandi Work Camp for its contribution to the cleanup
of Tara in the wake of a severe storm on March 13, 2007.
He said correctional centres and Community Advisory Councils needed
to work together to identify long-term strategic projects that would
develop and enhance prisoners’ skills.
The efforts of prisoners employed to assist in the cleanup of storm
damaged homes, roads and surrounding areas were greatly appreciated
by the Tara community.
Mr Rockett also presented an overview of trends and statistics in
corrections and spoke about links between community service projects
and Work camps.
Winton Work Camp won the Best Camp Award for the pride taken by
prisoners, camp supervisors and the Community Advisory Committee
members in the upkeep and presentation of the camps’ grounds.
Probation and Parole Executive Director Peter Camden spoke to the
conference about how offenders serving community service orders
could also contribute to Work-style projects in regional Queensland.
The 17th Annual Work Program Conference will be held at Springsure
next year.
Mr Camden explained the benefits of robust risk-assessments
conducted by Probation and Parole on offenders being considered for
work in the community.
Queensland Parole Boards President Peter McInnes outlined changes
to the Corrective Services Act 2006.
He explained the conditions set for offenders undertaking communitybased orders and how these emphasised community safety.
General managers from Townsville, Lotus Glen, Capricornia and Darling
Downs correctional centres also addressed to conference.
Infrastructure for the soon to open Bowen Women’s Work Camp and
continuing efforts in the wake of Cyclone Larry by the Innisfail Work
crews were also discussed.
Left to right, Regional Manger Yme Dwarshuis, Capricornia Correctional
Centre GM Steve Green, Probation and Parole Executive Director Peter Camden
and Blackall Shire CEO Brenda Kelly at the Work Program Conference
CN August 2007 / Page BCC management team, from left, Human Resources Manager Tanya Finn, Accommodation Manager Paul Broanda, Assistant General Manager Darryll Fleming, Offender Development
Manager Sonya Messer, Business Services Manager Leonie Carlile, Accommodation Manager Charlie Shore, General Manager Greg Brown, Centre Services Manager Peter Drage
Brisbane Correctional Centre project nearing completion
The redevelopment and expansion of Brisbane Correctional Centre
(BCC) is nearing completion.
The tanks will supply water to the centre’s grounds through an inground irrigation system that only turns on when the soil is dry.
Structural work has been mostly completed and finishing trades, such
as floor finishes, fixtures, fittings and painting are moving into final
stages.
Other green initiatives include native vegetation, water saving
fixtures, water and energy consumption monitoring equipment and
environmentally-friendly building products.
The management team has been appointed and until the centre is
commissioned will form part of the project team.
Recruitment
The Project Team is responsible for developing the operating processes
for BCC and coordinating all aspects of recruitment and staff training.
After commissioning, members of the management team will assume
operational duties at the centre.
Construction Manager Tony Froio said Bovis Lend Lease had started
their commissioning and defect finalisation stage.
“We are also continuing to install the latest waterwise technology,”
he said.
“As part of this process, eight 22,000 litre water tanks will be installed
by the end of August and flow control equipment for all showers and
new toilets is underway in wing S13,” he said.
Watertanks ready for
installation at Brisbane
Correctional Centre last
month
Page 10 / CN August 2007
BCC recruitment is an ongoing process with custodial supervisor and
officer positions currently in the interview stage. They are expected to
be finalised before the end of September.
In the coming months, BCC will be looking to appoint staff in positions
such as, psychologists, nurses, stores, cultural liaison officers and
administrative staff.
Positions will also be advertised within areas such as workplace
health and safety, food services, industry, sentence management and
support positions.
All positions will be advertised on the Queensland Government
SmartJobs website www.jobs.qld.gov.au
More information about careers with corrective services is available at
www.correctiveservices.qld.gov.au
Trainers and graduates of the Arthur Gorrie Correctional Centre Custodial Pre-service Induction program
Recruits graduate at Arthur Gorrie
A drill demonstration was the highlight of a recent graduation ceremony
held at the Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) Academy at Wacol.
The parade ground skills were showcased by Arthur Gorrie Correctional
Centre (AGCC) officers completing their pre-service training.
Academy Executive Director Alan Butler, AGCC General Manager Jim
Fisher and family and friends of the graduates were among the guests
who congratulated the 20 new corrective services officers.
The six-week course comprised classroom education, on-the-job
training, hands-on practical skills, physical training and team building.
Several awards were presented during the ceremony.
Merissa Weeks received the Dux of the Course Award.
Sushil (Henry) Sehgal received the Trainers’ Encouragement Award for
showing outstanding dedication and determination to complete the
course.
Jacobus Havenga received the Marksman’s Award as well as the
General Manager’s Award in recognition of outstanding integrity,
professionalism and teamwork displayed during the course.
Random tests tightened to catch drug users
A tougher drug-testing regime is helping Queensland Corrective
Services (QCS) crackdown on drug use in correctional centres.
In a major change, random urinalysis tests are no longer anonymous
and prisoners returning positive indications to tests are subject to
disciplinary action.
Drug Strategy Unit Manager Jeff Powis said Identified Random Testing
will benefit QCS by identifying who is using drugs and which drugs are
being used.
“Previously, random testing was conducted only for statistical purposes
in line with the statistical model developed by the Australian Bureau
of Statistics,” Jeff said.
“Identified Random Testing will continue that function, as well as
allowing us to take the appropriate action against prisoners who are
using drugs.
“Identifying which drugs are coming in, and who they are going to,
will allow us to better fight the smuggling of drugs into correctional
centres.”
All correctional centre general managers have been briefed about the
changes and Jeff will visit all centres to explain the changes to key
staff.
While the list of prisoners to be tested will still be computer-generated
using IOMS, all prisoners to be tested will be identified.
Custodial staff will now have two weeks to collect samples, which
previously had to be collected on the same day the list was
generated.
Bar-coding has also been introduced to help maintain the integrity of
the system and speed up processing at the John Tonge Centre – the
Government testing laboratory.
Jeff said the new system was supported by a review of procedures
relating to the collection, storage and transportation of samples.
“We did this to ensure our processes would stand up to any scrutiny,”
he said.
“Identified Random Testing will also allow us to increase the amount
of testing in line with the QCS Drug Strategy.”
Details of the Drug Strategy can be found on the QCS intranet under
Strategic Documents in the Reports and Publications section.
Staff can also call the Drug Strategy Unit on 3239 0592 for further
information.
In 2005-06, more than 8,000 random and targeted tests were
conducted on prisoners in Queensland correctional centres.
There will be no change to the procedure for targeted urinalysis tests.
CN August 2007 / Page 11
Service Delivery Excellence Award...Tara storm
response, Darling Downs Correctional Centre
Excellence Award winner,
Mareeba Probation and
Parole’s Linda Davie
Excellence Award winner,
Townsville Correctional
Centre’s Kev Murray
National medal recipients
for 25 years service, Gordon
Murray, left, and Ernie Faux
QCS Excellen
The QCS Excellence Awards 2007 were announced at a ceremony at Parliament House in Brisbane during
June. Award presentations were also held at Lotus Glen and Townsville correctional centres. Excellence
Award recipients were selected from a large number of nominations from across the State. Winners were
judged as the most exceptional in achievement, success, conduct or contribution to the Agency’s goals.
Long and Meritorious Service award recipients were also presented their medals and certificates at each
of the ceremonies.
Long and Meritorious Service Awards
National Medal recipients
The National Medal Clasp for 25 years long and meritorious service
Daryl Brown, John Brown, Roy Cannons, Colin Craig, Thomas Dagan, Ernest Faux, James Maloney, Gordon
Murray, Peter Taylor, Robert Thurland
The National Medal for 15 years long and meritorious service
Neville Allan, Alan Baker, Leonard Berthelsen, Dennis Butler, Neal Carthew, Shelley Charles, Roger Cockfield,
Jeffrey Cookson, John Crombie, Debra Davis, Peter Deane-Freeman, Michael Dobbie, Ross Dobbs, Gregory
Dowrick, Craig Eaves, Phillip Glosko, Colin Graham, Doris Heit, Shane Lahrs, David McNulty, Kevin Maguire,
Dennis Richardson, Donald Rowe, Rodney Smith, Bradley Wesener, Graeme White
Agency Long and Meritorious Service Awards
35 years long and meritorious service
Alan Farrell, William Kennedy, John Kerslake
25 years long and meritorious service
Michael Heffernan, Karen McGregor, Wayne May, Kevin Merrett, Ross Newman, Daryl Richter, Graham Yule
15 years long and meritorious service
David Beverley, Theadora Bosgra, Peter Crosby-Browne, Donna Curro, Nial Greaves, Sally Hier, Peter Hollis,
Brian Mildenhall, Earle Rawlings, Dianne Roughley, Peter Schweikert, Melissa Simmons, Ethel Speedy,
Michelle Sugden-Ware, Jane Thirnbeck, Christopher Udemans
Woodford Intel...recipients of a Service Delivery award
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August
August
2007
June 2007
Service Delivery award winners, the QCS Academy
nce Awards 2007
DG Medal recipient, Darling Downs Correctional Centre’s
Neill Crothers
Minister’s Bursary winners, Brisbane South District
Probation and Parole Office
Excellence Awards Recipients
Director-General’s Award
Neill Crothers – Darling Downs Correctional Centre
Minister’s Award
Brisbane South District Probation and Parole Office
Minister’s Special Award
Alison Hunter
Category – Service Delivery
Category – Innovation
Mary Cain – Brisbane Central District Probation and Parole Office
Lorelle Holmes – Burleigh Heads District Probation and Parole Office
James Mason – Woodford Correctional Centre
Karen Cook – Brisbane Women’s Correctional Centre
Gina Slape – Queensland Corrective Services Intelligence Group
Sue Petersen – Queensland Corrective Services Academy
Greg Mullins – Finance and Administrative Services Branch
Jane Ashton – Cairns District Probation and Parole Office
Thea Schmacke – Maryborough Correctional Centre
Peter Finch – Maryborough Correctional Centre
Dale Warren – Capricornia Correctional Centre
Raylea Carruthers – Gladstone District Probation and Parole Office
Kevin Murray – Townsville Correctional Centre
Woodford Correctional Centre Intelligence Unit
Tara Storm Response Team – Darling Downs Correctional Centre
Operational Training Unit – Queensland Corrective Services Academy
South-east Queensland Prison Precinct – Gatton shop front team
Visits Processing Officers team – Capricornia Correctional Centre
Townsville Correctional Centre Women’s Unit
Industry Trade Instructors – Lotus Glen Correctional Centre
Burleigh Heads District Probation and Parole Office
Pups in Prison Project team – Darling Downs Correctional Centre
Reporting Solutions team – Information Management Branch
Hervey Bay District Probation and Parole Office
Education Officers team – Capricornia Correctional Centre
Steven Scougall – Maryborough Correctional Centre
Lotus Glen’s John Brown receives his National
Medal for 25 years service
Category – Leadership and Collaboration
Jenny Lynas – Probation and Parole Directorate
Alan Swann – Custodial Operations Directorate
Fiona Brown – Gympie District Probation and Parole Office
Linda Davie – Mareeba District Probation and Parole Office
Rochelle Horrobin – Mackay District Probation and Parole Office
Queensland Corrective Services Intelligence Group
Townsville’s David McNulty receives his National
Medal for 15 years service
Awarded for their innovation, Burleigh Probation and Parole Office
CNCN
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June 2007
Lotus Glen
Honour roll
Gra
Custodial Entry Level Program graduates June 15 and 22
June 15
Lotus Glen Correctional Centre
David Aldrich
Stephen Henson
Ivor Anderson
Gary Leavis
Don Roberts
Danny Bradley
Neil Lunn
Jason Ryan
Ross Bulow
Corey Martland
Francis Stephen
Andrew Child
Daniel O’Connor
Nicholas Trabant
Paul Harris
Richard O’Dea
Melissa Harvey
Jason Rees
Stephen Ward
Lotus Glen graduates during their training
Page 14 / CN August 2007
Noel Powell receives his Cyclone Larry
pin from Mr Rockett
June 22
Townsville Correctional Centre
Theresa Fersterer
Dianne Whittome
Vicki Stuart
Megan Beech
Paul Webster
Glynnis Heath
Andrea Hull
Simon Harvey
Ben Cashman
Rodney Sherriff
Raymond Hanaway
Kim Rippon
Christopher Gee
Lloyd Jenkinson
Jacob Wilson
Ian Coleman
Robert Houston (Palen Creek)
Adam Woods (Maryborough)
Cutting the Lotus Glen graduation cake, from left,
graducates Francis Stephen, Melissas Harvey and
Mr Rockett
Lotus Glen trainers, from left, Carmelo Salerno,
Bruce Dunster, Rachel Reid and Phil Sinnot
Townsville
raduations
Graduations and accolades for northern staff
Lotus Glen Correctional Centre has celebrated an historic training
milestone with 19 new recruits graduating from the first Entry Level
Program (ELP) held by the centre since 1990.
New recruits for the State’s most northern centre have previously
completed their ELP at Brisbane’s QCS Academy (QCSA) – more than
1800kms away.
Now, they can complete their training close to home at the centre,
which was recently accredited as a training annex of the QCSA.
The first 10-week ELP was held at Lotus Glen thanks to an enthusiastic
and dedicated group of local training personnel and supportive
centre staff including Rachel Reid, Carmelo Salerno, Phil Sinnott and
Bruce Dunster, along with assistance from QCSA staff.
Townsville Correctional Centre also celebrated the graduation of 18
new recruits – 16 destined for work at Townsville and two heading to
Maryborough and Palen Creek correctional centres.
The June 15 and 22 graduations for Lotus Glen and Townsville,
respectively, were attended by Director-General Frank Rockett,
Custodial Executive Director Jim Mullen and QCS Academy Executive
Director Alan Butler.
Lotus Glen’s Stephen Henson and Townsville’s Christopher Gee gave
the graduate addresses at the ceremonies.
Townsville’s ceremony was held in a parade-style format in which
the graduates are summoned using the 117-year-old muster bell.
They then marched through the old gatehouse, prior to inspection
by Mr Rockett.
Award accolades
The two graduation ceremonies also provided an opportunity for
the presentation of commemorative Cyclone Larry pins and QCS
Excellence Awards.
The pins, awarded by the Office of the Premier, recognise
contributions to the Cyclone Larry relief effort in Innisfail and the
surrounding region.
Recipients included Rob Fitzsimmons, Dave Muller and Noel Powell
from Lotus Glen, and Douglas Cronin, Mal Braunberger, Alan
Sotheren and William McKay from Townsville.
For the QCS Excellence Awards feature, turn to pages 12 and 13.
Townsville Correctional Centre’s 117-year-old muster bell is rung, heralding the arrival of the graduates and the subsequent parade and inspection
Townsville graduates during their training
CN August
August 2007
2007 // Page
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Probation
A Compliance Officer’s role
Mark French is a Compliance Officer at the Brisbane South District
Probation and Parole Office who graduated from the course on July 6.
Compliance Officer
Mark has served 18 years with corrections and said he learned much
during the course and appreciated the opportunity to network with
colleagues from around the State.
In this Corrections News profile, Mark speaks about his role as a
Compliance Officer.
“Every day is a new day,” explains Mark French.
“You never know what is coming next. This is not the sort of job where
you work at your computer all day.”
According to Mark, the role of a Compliance Officer has broadened
significantly from the Community Service Supervisor role it has replaced.
“Previously, the focus of our job was entirely on community service, but
now, we have a variety of roles. We are multi-skilled,” he said.
“We now play a significant role in contravention actions against offenders
who fail to attend their community service, fail to report, or commit an
offence while on an Intensive Corrections Order or a Probation Order.
“Compliance officers also assist the administration staff within the office,
conduct urinalysis tests, and attend home visits with other officers.
“This has opened up opportunities for further involvement within the
office structure.”
Mark, who is one of three compliance officers at Brisbane South, oversees
12 community service work sites from West End to Carina.
July 6
Offenders work at sites run by organisations such as Lifeline, the Clem
Jones Centre, the Brisbane City Council, Department of Main Roads and
various Bushcare groups.
Annette Gill
Helen Athanassiou
Judy Allen
Lorraine Applebee
Jan Raphael
Karl Hanes
Lorraine Hackett
Ian Wintle
Raylea Carruthers
Leanne Sampson
Grace Turek
Susan Lukatela
Mark French
Desley Gurney
Alarna Morris
Peter Heaphy
Administering community service remains a significant part of a
Compliance Officer’s role.
“We’re still required to source new sites, allocate offenders to projects,
induct prisoners and site supervisors, collate hours worked at project
sites and record data,” said Mark.
“It’s also very important to get ongoing feedback from site supervisors
- whether it’s good or bad.”
Mark says he gets great satisfaction from working in the community.
“Helping to turn a negative experience into a positive one is very
satisfying,” he said.
“Most people are compliant, but some do require a gentle reminder and
a bit of direction.”
South Brisbane Probation and Parole Officer Mark French checks offender work records
with Lifeline Site Supervisor Annette Adams
Page 16 / CN August 2007
and Parole
Development Program graduates
July 13
Emma Wildermoth
Daniel Steve
Leanne Rose
Matt Klein-Schiphorst
Michelle Holmes
Eddie Rawlings
Trina Ward
Annette Evans
Arna Van Eyssen
Toni Webber
Toni Vincent
Desley Gurney
David Franklin
Michael Schilt
Jacki Slater
Melanie Hudson
Greg McMahon
Tricia Gilmour
Danielle Noordink
Vilic Bojan
Kim O’Toole
The roll-out of the new Probation and Parole
model continues with 68 officers graduating
from three recent Compliance Officer Development Program courses.
All compliance officers have now completed
their Development Program course and with
40 per cent of reporting officers having also
completed their course, the evolution of the
new Probation and Parole model is on track.
Two more Reporting Officer Development
Programs are due to commence soon and it is
anticipated all Probation and Parole officers
will be trained in their new roles by the end
of this year.
Officers from across Queensland, from new
recruits to a 35-year veteran, completed the
two-week Compliance Officer courses, which
covered 28 subjects.
Training Coordinator Jeff Bennett conducted
the graduation ceremonies which were also
attended by QCS Academy Executive Director
Alan Butler, Learning Services Principal
Advisor Robert Burnheim and North Coast
Regional Manager Ursula Roeder.
Compliance Officer is one of five roles
developed for Probation and Parole and,
essentially, replaces the Community Service
Coordinator position.
August 3
Julie Casey
Cathy McKeon
Harmony Steinbach
Mary James
Maria Stevens
Kirsten Robinson
Maurie Plant
Maria Weeks
Eileen Fowler
Patrice White
Shane Daley
Narelle Profke
Susan Jacobs
Ricky Bennet
Nev Walker
Arlene Bale
Sevese Isaro
Ellen Sorbello
Tracey Leveridge
Mary McGrath
CN August 2007 / Page 17
Woodford’s welfare association going strong
A welfare association set up at Woodford Correctional Centre (WCC) to offer simple benefits and
emotional support to prison officers injured at work, last month acknowledged a key figure in
its continuing success.
During a ceremony at WCC recently, the Woodford Staff Welfare Association (WSWA) bestowed
the centre’s General Manager Greg Howden with the title of Patron, in appreciation of his
support.
Custodial Officer Phil Haskett is WSWA President and helped establish the group 10 years ago
following a riot and series of staff assaults.
Phil said the association collected $2 per pay from members to support staff in times of need.
“At first, we sent flowers and gift baskets to sick officers,” Phil said.
“Since then, we’ve grown to about 200 members and now have $20,000 in savings.”
Phil credits his GM for much of the recent rise in membership and increase in funds available.
Left to right, Custodial Officer Phil Haskett, Industry Advisor Jim
Mason, Custodial Executive Director Jim Mullen and GM Greg
Howden at the presentation
“When Greg Howden arrived at Woodford two years ago, he brought a wealth of knowledge,
enthusiasm and encouragement to us,” Phil said.
“He helped us develop a constitution, improve our financial reporting and to incorporate.”
“Thanks to his professional guidance and enthusiasm, we’re now in a position to offer welfare
benefits to officers who are off work for prolonged periods.”
“We also have a $3000 benefit for the families of members who die.”
The patron’s title is a life-long appointment and was bestowed on Greg by Phil Haskett in the
presence of fellow officers and Custodial Executive Director Jim Mullen.
Greg said he accepted the title with pride.
“Correctional officers operate in a challenging environment,” Greg said.
“We should always be sympathetic and supportive of our colleagues, especially in times of
need.”
The committee is now negotiating ways to expand the association and, along with the support
of Jim Mullen, set up similar arrangements in other correctional centres.
Advance2work has replaced the Post Release Employment Assistance Program (PREAP).
Advance2work will continue to prepare prisoners for employment in the community as they
approach their release date.
Staff from community agencies who work with offenders as part of the program, will now be
identified by one name – advance2work – throughout all Queensland correctional centres.
The program’s contract recently went to tender, with all existing providers being reappointed
until 2010.
Career Employment Australia will provide services for advance2work in south east Queensland,
Maryborough and Cairns. In Townsville BCIL Southern Edge will run the program. The Salvation
Army’s Employment Plus has been appointed for Rockhampton.
Since the program started in 2000, it has supported more than 10,000 prisoners, with about
2700 of these placed into employment.
Last year, 2600 prisoners were supported, with 700 placed into employment.
Of these, about 400 retained their employment beyond 13 weeks.
QCS has also designed and implemented a web-based data management system to assist with
managing advance2work.
advance2work links prisoners to post-release employment
Page 18 / CN August 2007
It is the first QCS system to allow external service providers to gain information and report via
the internet.
FAST news
Intelligence training
“Green” focus for Borallon
During June, 16 intelligence officers graduated from the ATP006 Initial
Intelligence Officer Training course, which was held at the QCS Academy.
Coordinated by Detective Senior Sergeant Rob Wildin, the three-week program
for intelligence officers was developed by the Queensland Corrective Services
Intelligence Group (QCSIG) in partnership with the Queensland Police Service
(QPS). Det. Wildin said this was the first year that the course had been
accessible to Probation and Parole intelligence officers, with three officers
taking part in the recent training. The ATP006 program is a component of the
Advanced Diploma of Public Safety (Police Intelligence), which is awarded after
the completion of a further module, ATP007 Consolidation and Reflection, and
assessment of competence in the workplace. The course includes modules on
planning intelligence activities, crime analysis, intelligence indicators, sources
of information, profiling, crime scene preservation and inference development.
Officers came from most centres across the State for the training, as well as
from the Tasmanian Prison Service and ACT Corrections.
Recognising the importance of conserving water and protecting the
environment has inspired Borallon Correctional Centre (BCC) to promote World
Environment Day. BCC joined with Ipswich City Council and community groups
such as West Moreton Land Care and Save the Koala Foundation to develop
appropriate activities. Among these activities, native trees were given to staff
to take home and plant and their children entered a colouring-in competition.
BCC General Manager Troy Ittensohn said being environmentally-focused was
another way BCC contributed to the local community in a positive way. “As an
organisation, we are socially responsible to the community,” he said. “We are
also participating in the Lights off Australia campaign.” The first Wednesday
of each month has been designated Lights Off Australia night, when residents
and businesses switch off lights that aren’t required.
New program at Borallon addresses drug issues
A new program at Borallon Correctional Centre (BCC) is set to become an
annual event following its successful launch. Drug Action Week coordinator
Alberta Western said the program was a means of raising awareness of
the consequences of drug usage. “We covered a range of issues including,
communicable diseases, rehabilitation centres, encouraging drug-free
activities, mental health and overcoming addiction.” Drug Action Week
featured: education programs delivered by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation of
Queensland and Goori House Rehabilitation Centre; talks delivered in Chinese
and Vietnamese; a series of drug and alcohol themed movies; daily anti-drugs
messages delivered by custodial staff; information for visitors; and a touch
football competition. Alberta said Drug Action Week was part of BCC’s overall
drug strategy.
Perspectives
QCS Intelligence Officers and their interstate colleagues at the intelligence training
Camps working for Balonne Shire
Work camps at St George and Dirranbandi have contributed more than $170,000
worth of labour to community groups in the Balonne Shire during the past 12
months. Offenders at the St George camp completed more than 400 hours of
work during June with an estimated value to the community in excess of $6000.
Corrective Services Minister Judy Spence and Director-General Frank Rockett
recently toured the St George camp with members of the local Community
Advisory Committee. Ms Spence and Mr Rockett were escorted around the
camp by Supervisor Dave Martin and Field Officer Len Bowen. The tour included
a walk along the River Walk pathway which was constructed by past and current
camp residents and has been an active site since the mid-1990s. The St George
Work Camp currently provides offenders for a variety of projects including, the
St George Golf Club, the Thallon Country Women’s Association Hall, Balonne
Kindergarten and a local rubbish tip.
Prison keys sold on eBay
A 135-year-old penitentiary in America has changed some of its locks after
keys to the maximum-security prison were apparently sold on EBay. The keys
belonged to a locksmith who retired from Anamosa State Penitentiary in
1974. He died two years later and when his wife died last year, an auctioneer
was hired to sell off the estate, which included the keys. Someone bought
the keys and put them on EBay. The prison’s warden said some locks at the
eastern Iowa prison have been changed since 1974 while others haven’t,
prompting the recent change. “We did it as a precaution,” he said.
http://cnews.canoe.ca
Hungry for jail
Inmates of an Indian prison are reportedly refusing to apply for bail because
the food is so good. Parappana Agrahara prison in Bangalore is crowded with
4700 inmates — more than twice its capacity. The Bangalore Mirror reports
criminals are refusing to apply for bail to get out while juvenile offenders are
lying about their age to get in. The paper says the reason is healthy food being
served by ISKCON, or the International Society for Krishna Consciousness.
The Hare Krishna movement started serving its pure-vegetarian fare in the
jail in May under contract from the prisons department. Lunch and dinner
typically include piping hot rice, two vegetables and a spicy lentil dish
called sambar and buttermilk. Prisoner Raja Reddy, who has been arrested
20 times in 30 years for theft, robbery and burglary, said: “When we are
getting tasty, nutritious food three times a day here, why should we go out
and commit crimes.”
http://www.ananova.com
Jail bird confiscated
Inspecting the facilities at St George, from left, Darling Downs Correctional Centre General
Manager Andrew Pike, St George Work Camp Field Supervisor Dave Martin, Minister Judy
Spence and Ministerial Policy Advisor Fred Gwinn
A live budgie smuggled into an Irish prison inside a woman’s body has been
confiscated. The bird, belonging to a long-term prisoner, was taken during
a search for contraband. It is believed it had been smuggled into the prison
by a female visitor who concealed the bird in her body. Other more common
items taken during the check of inmates’ cells in Ireland’s maximum security
Portlaoise prison include mobile phones, drugs and homemade alcohol.
http://www.metro.co.uk
CN August 2007 / Page 19
FAST news
Unique artwork helps victims of crime
Gatton Show goers meet QCS
A unique piece of artwork has been donated by Arthur Gorrie Correctional
Centre to Relationships Australia (RA), to raise funds for RA’s victims of crime
counselling and support service. The artwork “We Try to Mend” takes the form of
a free-standing, portable chest with five detailed paintings by an AGCC offender
decorating its panelled sides. The paintings tell the story of an offender’s
journey and highlight the themes of precariousness, turmoil, contemplation and
redemption. GEO Australia Managing Director Pieter Bezuidenhout presented
the art piece to Relationships Australia last month, saying the donation was
about giving back to the community and assisting victims of crime.
Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) staff last month joined the cattle, rides,
wood chopping and fine arts displays as attractions at this year’s Gatton
Show. Corrective Services Minister Judy Spence officially opened the 91st
Gatton Show after arriving in the main arena in a restored Cobb & Co coach.
Dog Squad officers Graham Clements and Doug Belcher and their dogs Mia
and Duke also marched in the opening parade. QCS also sponsored several
events in the horse section of the show. Graham and Doug returned with Mia
and Duke the next day to help staff a QCS display stall near the main arena
and to march in the Grand Parade. The dogs were a popular attraction for show
goers, who were able to find out about the role of dogs in correctional centres
and how they are trained for the job. They were joined by Fleet Supervisor Greg
Williams who opened up a short haul escort vehicle for patrons to look over.
HR Recruitment Consultant Billy Cupples was also on hand to answer enquiries
about careers in corrections and progress on the proposed prison precinct for
the area. This year’s State Budget allocated $3.4 million for the planning and
design of the Gatton prison precinct. Negotiations to secure the land required
for the precinct are continuing.
Dog Squad Officer Graham Clements with Mia, Fleet Supervisor Greg Williams, HR
Recruitment Consultant Billy Cupples and Dog Squad Officer Doug Belcher with Duke
outside the QCS display tent at the Gatton Show
GEO Australia Managing Director Pieter Bezuidenhout presents Relationships Australia
CEO Andrew Davies with the artwork
Christmas in July at Wacol
Tinsel sparkled at Arthur Gorrie Correctional Centre (AGCC) last month as the
centre invited residents from Canossa Nursing Home to celebrate “Christmas in
July” with a festive lunch. AGCC General Manager Jim Fisher said Canossa Nursing
Home and its residents were adopted by AGCC as a way of engaging with the
local community and celebrating the contributions and achievements of senior
citizens. “This year’s theme for our Christmas in July lunch is remembering and
saying ‘thank you’ to the senior members of our community for what we have
today,” he said. With reindeer, poinsettias and bonbons decorating the table,
Canossa residents, carers and AGCC senior management staff enjoyed a two
course meal prepared by offenders. Following the luncheon, GEO Australia
Managing Director Pieter Bezuidenhout presented Canossa Nursing Home with
a gift basket of chocolates and biscuits for those residents who weren’t able
to attend.
Canossa residents and AGCC staff enjoy the festive spirit
Page 20 / CN August 2007
Dog Squad officers Graham Clements
and Doug Belcher march in the Grand
Parade with their dogs Mia and Duke
GP Dog Shiloh remembered
Popular long-serving Lotus Glen Correctional Centre (LGCC) General Purpose
Dog Shiloh has passed away. The nine-year-old tan German Sheppard retired
six months ago after serving at Lotus Glen since 2000. LGCC Assistant General
Manager Phil Mannion presented Shiloh’s handler, Dog Squad Officer Ian
Grimmett, with a tankard on behalf of the centre in recognition of Shiloh’s
contribution. Ian is now partnered with Monty the Agency’s first Belgian
Malinois.
GP Dog Shilo
LGCC Assistant GM Phil Mannion presents Dog Handler Ian Grimmett with a tankard in memory of Shilo