A community program transforming the lives of young people in South Australia’s outback is one of 14 local recipients of a $180,000 community investment program, funded by Santos.
Operation Flinders, which runs a remote outback adventure program in the northern Flinders Ranges, has received two vehicles, donated by Santos, as part of the region-wide funding package.
Santos Executive Vice President Eastern Australia and Papua New Guinea Brett Darley said community investments are an important part of contributing to the future of the region.
“The funding announced today will support a range of local groups, doing great work within the community,” Mr Darley said.
“We hope that our donation of two ex-company vehicles to Operation Flinders will assist in the expansion of their program and help even more young people in need.
“Other grant recipients include Clontarf Foundation, which is doing extraordinary work with young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men, Youth Opportunities and the Whyalla Show Society.
Mr Darley said there were also wider benefits to the region, with funding for enhancing local infrastructure, supporting educational programs and delivering cultural and social events that bring the community together.
“Santos is committed to building strong partnerships within the communities in which we operate and we are proud to support the Whyalla region through this program.”
Operation Flinders Chief Executive Officer David Wark said the utes will help improve their program’s reach.
“Sometimes, young people who are facing challenges need a circuit breaker, a chance to reset and start again. Operation Flinders gives them that opportunity and provides them with tools and resources to enhance their overall wellbeing,” Mr Wark said.
“These kids might have suffered through family dysfunction, drug use or physical abuse. Our program helps improve self-esteem, attitude and behaviour, which can have long-lasting impacts.”
Santos-operated Port Bonython and its Moomba connection have provided reliable, affordable energy and employed thousands of South Australian workers for more than 40 years in skilled, secure, well-paying jobs.
About 94 per cent of workers at Port Bonython are Whyalla locals.
Full list of recipients:
- UNISA
- AusOcean
- Operations Flinders
- Youth Opportunities
- Whyalla Men’s Shed
- Sammy D Foundation
- Whyalla Show Society – Whyalla Show and Carols in the Park
- Nunyara Aboriginal Health Service – Whyalla NAIDOC Committee
- Advancing Whyalla
- Whyalla Swimming Club
- Hope Collective
- Whyalla Secondary College
- Plaza Youth
- Whyalla City Council – Stony Point Infrastructure
