A Tarneit program that aims to help youths with drug and alcohol problems by teaching them automotive skills is getting its own TV show.
Production company Silverbird Network is developing a script and will start filming Auto Rehab in the United States next year, with help from Auto Rehab founder Sophie Zammit.
Ms Zammit started Auto Rehab in 2012 to help her two sons, who had been caught up in drugs and antisocial behaviour in their teens. They got their lives back on track and learnt a trade in the process.
The program offers youths the chance to work on and restore classic cars, and obtain certificates I, II and III in automotive and specialised trades, including auto electrical.
Something to aspire to
Ms Zammit said Auto Rehab gave youths aged 15 to 19 something to focus on and aspire to.
“I actually had to barricade one of my sons in this house and call for him to be assessed,” she said.
“We took matters into our own hands and he’s been clean for a fair while now and has been doing very well. He’s got his own family and he’s working,” Ms Zammit said. “He’s one of the lucky ones. He’s lost a few friends who haven’t been so lucky.”
Ms Zammit and her sons’ father, Tony, have been running the program out of Ms Zammit’s Tarneit property, and now they plan to open a workshop somewhere in the west.
“It’s going to be a viable business as well where you’re dealing with the customers, cars and everyday, automotive jobs. These kids just need someone to give them a fair go.”
Inquiries: 0458 259 444 or email zorbaproductions@iinet.net.au
