Council commends corrections for flood sandbag marathon effort

The hard work of prisoners at Maryborough Correctional Centre to fill about 4000 sandbags in four days in the lead up to the recent flooding in the town have been recognised.

Landscaping Trade Instructor, Wayne Simpson received a certificate of appreciation from Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Darren Everard in recognition of his efforts to provide the council with close to 10,000 sandbags since the start of Summer.

Councillor Everard said that during the recent flood event, sandbags filled by prisoners were used to reinforce the levy which protected the Maryborough CBD.

“This is the fourth year that Maryborough Correctional Centre has filled sandbags to support local emergency management efforts.

“With two significant floods affecting the town this season, their hard work and rapid provision of additional sandbags played a vital role in protecting the town,” Councillor Everard said.

General Manager of Maryborough Correctional Centre, Chief Superintendent Kris Winter said that the prisoners at the centre were keen to play a part in helping the community prepare for the floods.

“Meaningful work of this nature not only provides prisoners with the opportunity to give back to society, but it helps them feel connected to the community they were helping protect,” Ch Supt Winter said.

“These opportunities are incredibly valuable in instilling a sense of worth and pride in a job well done, as well as teaching them life skills and instilling a work ethic that will assist with their successful reintegration back into the community upon release.

“The work of our officers in facilitating these opportunities, as well as acting as role models for the prisoners plays an important role in preventing further offending, and improving community safety on the Fraser Coast.

“I congratulate Wayne on his efforts and on the well-deserved recognition,” Ch Supt Winter said.