Casuarina Prison’s Manager of Industries and Facilities, Mike, says a lot has changed since he began working there more than 20 years ago.
“When I started here, I had two Vocational Support Officers (VSOs) and two public servants, and we now have 80 VSO positions with four public servants and are looking for more,” he said.
Casuarina’s Industries and Facilities supplies materials, produce and services to other metropolitan prisons and, in some cases, the entire Department of Corrective Services.
It also provides opportunities for prisoners to earn experience and qualifications working in the Bakery, Maintenance, Construction, Metal Shop, Cabinet Shop, Market Gardens, Grounds Office, Paint Shop, Print Shop, Cleaning Services, Garments and Textiles, Laundry, Canteen and Kitchen.
“Each of those workshops has qualified people sharing their skills,” Mike said. “There are great benefits working as a VSO – there’s roster flexibility, but you also get a lot of job satisfaction sharing your skills with others.”
Mike said all VSOs become part of a motivated team that includes the prisoners trying to improve their lives as well as fellow officers.
“All some prisoners want to do is work and learn more,” he said. “I enjoy the interaction with the VSOs and prisoners, I like encouraging people and seeing what they can do.”
Those in care have proven they can do plenty when given a chance – and guidance from VSOs, which is where the job really pays off.
“Looking at prisoners who thought that they’re not good enough and encouraging them to have a go, it’s great,” Mike said. “Then they get accredited, and you can see these guys taking that away, it makes them proud.”
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