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Platform 10 – a great initiative in Redfern

The Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association has been in George Street Redfern since the 1950s. In addition to its supported employment program it is now opening a creative initiative on Level 11, 1 Lawson Square, the building above the Redfern Police Station. This is especially impressive because it effectively meets at least two types of need. It is being funded by both Federal and NSW governments reports Dorothy McRae-McMahon in the South Sydney Herald of August 2009.

The beautiful space, with panoramic views over Sydney, offers a wonderful place for people running conferences and consultations, training sessions, workshops, launchings and openings or other events. It is spacious, right alongside Redfern Station, with undercover parking if you need it, high quality conferencing and video-conferencing facilities, printing and publishing services and great refreshments. The rates for hire of Platform 10, as the centre is named, and its services, are very reasonable.

The running of Platform 10 is intertwined with the training of people with psychiatric disabilities for entry or re-entry into the workforce. It takes into account the reality that people often need psycho-social rehabilitation because, due to their illnesses, they may have lost some level of social skills. The type of work experience offered covers a whole range of skills up to professional standards in the hospitality area – reception, purchase, storage and preparation of food and drinks, cleaning up, stocktaking, setting up of furniture and equipment for particular events and more. People are trained in developing employment resumes and generally presenting themselves for employment. It is a six- to eight-month program.

We sat in the Platform 10 space with Kerry Dixon its Manager and Marty Golding, who is PRA Divisional Manager for Employment. Just doing that would be enough to encourage me to hold an event there, should I be needing a venue. The only problem would be stopping people spending all day looking out the windows at the amazing scenes over the area! It was quiet and peaceful, spacious and welcoming, with all sorts of possibilities for room arrangement – for small groups or larger.

When we met some of the people who are at present engaged in training for employment, as they meet the needs of events being held there, we could feel their enthusiasm and commitment to what they are doing. Their spirit adds to the welcoming atmosphere in general.

Let’s spread the word! This is a truly admirable project. To receive conference and information sheets for Platform 10 contact Kerry Dixon: 9690 8927 or 0408 401150; Kerry.d@pra.org.au .

Photo: Ali Blogg - Marty Golding and Kerry Dixon with members of the hospitality team

Source: South Sydney Herald August 2009 www.southsydneyherald.com.au