As we arrive at the final month of the year, it is a time of reflection, planning and preparation to secure the greatest possible start to 2023. I reflect on the many successes of the Participants and congratulate you sincerely on your achievements.
2022 has been an outstanding year at Latrobe Lifeskills, where we experienced strong interest, many new faces, high attendance, and engaging levels of participation. I am proud of the staff teams across Bundoora and Bendigo as they have applied creativity, innovation, and choice. Importantly, they have placed yourselves, the Participants, at the centre of their support work; a recent feature being the thriving art program in Bendigo.
My highlights this year have been our linkages and partnerships, such as the annual Ivanhoe Grammar School Year 9 Community Engagement Placement Program, the inaugural Latrobe Lifeskills & Whittlesea Police Academy, the refreshment of links with La Trobe University as we work with the Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary, the university’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Student Placements as industry partners and support to the university’s initiatives in accessibility and inclusion.
I am heartened to know that there are many like-minded individuals and organisations who practice and believe in creating equity and an inclusive and diverse environment for our communities. Partnerships are a key area I am committed to developing for the benefit and experience of the Participants, collaborating with exceptional people who break down barriers for people with disability.
Next year marks 25 years since we began our journey. 2023 will bring about changes such as the introduction of Programs of Support for group-based activities on 1 July, expansion of activities, and new services in the pipeline, which I am excited to announce soon.
With the best multi-talented staff team and dedicated managers, I am confident Latrobe Lifeskills is ready to bring about opportunities for growth, education, and connection.
To the Participants we support and their families: thank you for choosing Latrobe Lifeskills. We look forward to working closely with you in the new year. Wishing you a safe, happy, and restful break over the festive season.
