By KATRINA BRANDON
COMMUNITY spirit could be found in bounds at the fourth Community Turf Force Program graduation.
While a small cohort, the Gippsland Trades & Labour Council (GTLC) Community Project Officer, Kellie Bertrand, told the Express that the group of four showed up with a willingness not just to work, but to grow, ask questions, share their own stories, and support each other.
The Community Turf Force Program reflects the proactive engagement of law enforcement and the value placed on partnerships in localised community building initiatives aimed at fostering social connections, skill development, and positive youth engagement.
Within the program, individuals developed skills in lawn and garden maintenance, learnt about safety when using equipment, increased their awareness of local organisations, and worked together as a team.
A wealth of support turned up at the GTLC graduation on September 18, with about 25 people in attendance.
Ms Bertrand welcomed the crowd.
“Thank you for being here today to celebrate the remarkable efforts and engagement of the participants in our fourth Community Turf Force Program,” she said.
“We have had a total of 24 young people through our program, and each round brings something unique, a new dynamic, a fresh energy, and a range of different challenges and successes, including the unpredictable Gippsland weather. What remains constant is the commitment, the resilience, and the heart that every one of you brings.”
Throughout the five weeks, the program participants completed projects at the Morwell German Club (Club Astoria), Morwell Historical Society, Rotary Club of Morwell, CWA Morwell Evening Branch, PowerWorks, and the Newborough Yallourn Men’s Shed.
At each venue, Ms Bertrand said every participant learnt something new and became more confident.
“Throughout the past five weeks, we’ve seen incredible development,” she said.
“They’ve (participants) worked through challenges, celebrated small wins, and created a sense of shared purpose. These are the qualities that make them stronger, and they strengthen communities, making programs like this meaningful far beyond the surface.
“They didn’t shy away from the complexities of learning something new. Whether it was handling unfamiliar tools, navigating team dynamics, or reflecting on their personal growth, we are grateful for the trust you felt in us to do that. That kind of openness is powerful.”
