Carole Levy
Mambourin opens up some terrific opportunities for Werribee’s adults who are living with a disability – and it’s been doing it for more than 40 years. One of those adults is Thomas, who’s been going to Mambourin’s Werribee Community Hub since mid-2018.
Facilitator Ashley Ware says that Thomas, who especially enjoys the woodwork program, has really grown in confidence since he started.
“I have achieved a lot,” Thomas says, proudly showing a coffee table he recently finished. ‘’I like doing woodwork because it’s fun to get my hands into it. I have friends in the program, too, which makes it even more fun.’’
Ashley says the woodwork group is empowered to do everything – from measuring, sawing, drilling and sanding, through to staining the finished product. Then they get to take it home.
“Woodwork gives people an opportunity to learn a range of skills,’’ he says. “Everyone is involved in setting up the equipment at the start of the day, safely using tools and cleaning and maintaining the tools after they have finished with them.
“The setting also allows everyone to understand the Occupational Health and Safety rules of a work environment.”
Now that the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has rolled out across Victoria, people in Wyndham have greater choice regarding the services they access; however, understanding the scheme can be confusing for many people.
Werribee Community Hub manager Linda Agius says one of the services Mambourin offers is NDIS support.
“We have a dedicated NDIS team to guide people through the process and help them to understand what funding they’re entitled to and which services can help them reach their goals,’’ Linda says.
Linda adds that the best way for people to find out more about Mambourin is to give them a call.
“Have a chat with someone on our friendly team to discuss how we can best support you!’’
What else does Mambourin offer? Life skills support; social and interest groups; community access; and weekend leisure and recreation activities.
UPDATE: Mambourin has performed risk management on all internal and external hub activities in line with government recommendations on COVID-19 and have made necessary changes to their programs, intake process and visitor policy. Visit mambourin.org/latest-news for more information.
Mambourin, 11 Walls Road, Werribee Inquiries: 9731 9200 or mambourin.org
