Stories of change

Holly lives in Paraburdoo where it was difficult for her to get driving lessons.

After signing up to Bloodwood Tree’s Enhance Program, she received lessons from Santhosh in Tom Price.

She has since passed her practical driving assessment and is now able to drive to work and study.

- Bloodwood Tree

“I achieved my learner’s permit by attending a learner’s session at Robe River Kuruma Aboriginal Corporation (RRKAC) with my support worker, Prem.

“Going to the RRKAC learner’s session made it easier to understand on paper and was a welcoming environment that I felt comfortable in."

I would not of got my learner’s if this option wasn’t there. I would not of sat the test at Department of Transport.

“In my Pilbara Ryde Sessions I go driving to places I wouldn’t normally visit. The 90-minute sessions are driving adventures where I learn to be a safe driver.”

“I am the happiest person on this day, this has open up doors for me. I have been patient and waited so long to get my P plates.

“I am feeling free. I have been saving to buy myself a car, to get to work. I am a step closer to achieving my goals.

“Thanks for helping disadvantaged learner drivers in getting their licence.”

“I didn’t get my licence when I was younger as I didn’t feel mature or confident enough to get behind the wheel,”

“Having my licence made me cry. I can finally drive my daughter to Onslow to my family for Christmas.

“I am now applying for better jobs.”

Jesse has gained his P plates so can now help with the driving for the work-ready program crew (Yirramagardu Crew). Gaining his P plates will open doors for him to move into employment with our maintenance and gardening crew (Brida) out in Cape Lambert Wickham on a Rio Tinto site.

This is Jesse’s first job and with the Driving Access and Equity Program, we were able to help him out financially by paying for driving lessons and licensing costs.

- Ngarliyarndu Bindirri Aboriginal Corporation