By DYLAN BROWN
Headway is a woodworking initiative that has been operating since 1985 and is still going strong. It was initially set up as a program for people who had experienced an acquired brain injury (ABI), it has now evolved to become an all abilities program.
A decade ago Headway CEO John Roach was looking to retire and endeavouring to find a trustworthy organisation to continue the woodworking program. In stepped The Disability Trust and over the last ten years the program has continued to go from strength to strength.
The program is led by highly skilled facilitators. Mark Jensen has a background in boatmaking and Luke Rallings is experienced in cabinet making. Their expertise is greatly appreciated by the program participants who enjoy a supported environment, while creating their projects and socialising. They work to their own capacity as they learn and expand their abilities.
Chris is a participant who has been with the program since 2007, Adam joined 10 years ago while Pete is a newcomer after starting up two years ago. A recently returned member of the woodworking group is Tara. The 34-year-old re joined the group a few weeks ago and is already working on three projects – a coffee table, a chopping board and a cup holder. She had also has been busy reorganising the workshop. The participants thoroughly enjoy this fantastic community access program.
Recently, a builder donated wood and tools to Headway which was valued at around $1500. If anyone has any spare wood, especially hardwood, or acrylic paint that might be going to waste, the woodworking group would greatly appreciate it being donated to help with their projects.
There is a new Thursday class starting soon and we would love to welcome more participants to join our thriving program. If you or someone you know is interested in woodworking and learning new skills or you are able to donate spare wood or paint, please email amy.rennie@disabilitytrust.org.au or alysha.szwec@disabilitytrust.org.au
