Townsville Project Booyah graduates complete life-changing course

The latest group of young graduates of Project Booyah have completed their course, which aims to develop their skills and to discourage them from remaining in the justice system.

The Townsville Project Booyah graduates at the ceremony held last Thursday. Picture: QPS

Five girls in Townsville have completed a sixteen week police course which aims to reduce their reoffending behaviour and to develop their social, education and employment skills.

The Project Booyah graduation was held on Thursday and the latest cohort through the course have received a Duke of Ed Bridge Award, first aid and infection control certificates.

Acting superintendent Jason Shepherd said the graduation was important because it allowed the graduates the chance to tell their stories of how the program already had helped them.

“The support doesn’t stop after the program finishes,” he said.

“Graduates receive ongoing support from the passionate, multidisciplinary Booyah team.”

The Townsville Project Booyah graduation ceremony held on Thursday, with speakers including Mundingburra MP Les Walker and a police liaison officer. Picture: QPS

One of the graduates, identified as Abbey, said the program had helped her make friends, while she also had developed an interest in outdoor physical activities such as swimming.

“It was really scary at first, but then I really got to know them, and everyone was so loving and caring,” she said.

“This program really gave me the confidence to try everything.”

A Queensland Police Service spokeswoman said the program was developed between different agencies and that it helped to discourage young people from crime and from being involved in the justice system.

It also helped them to engage better with their local community, their family, and by being more involved in their education.

Originally published as Townsville Project Booyah graduates complete life-changing course