Wangarang to celebrate half-century

Established in 1962 by a dedicated group of Orange residents, Wangarang has grown into a successful business with 125 supported employees.

Today the not-for-profit organisation provides work opportunities for people with intellectual and physical disabilities.

Originally named The Sheltered Workshop, it was initially “almost respite for carers”, said Wangarang’s manager of communications and development, Jayson Hanrahan.

“It’s no longer just that. It’s more than just products and services, it improves the lives of so many people,” he said.

Mr Hanrahan said Wangarang is about “developing skills and confidence” in its supported employees.

General manager David Thomas agreed, saying: “The perception of a sheltered workshop in the past was people just doing things to keep busy.” Mr Thomas said over the last 50 years Wangarang has developed into a place that provides products and skills to companies across Australia.

Disability service manager Susan Williams said while Wangarang was initially run by parents and carers, staff are now employed to match supported employees with jobs and also seek new work opportunities.

She said having a job and social outlet makes a huge difference for Wangarang’s supported employees, with many becoming more confident since their employment.

“They’ve got friends, a social life and are really talkative,” she said.

Despite the advances over the last 50 years, Mr Thomas said there are still challenges for Wangarang.

“I think that the community still thinks we’re government-funded,” he said.

Mr Thomas said while Wangarang does receive some funding, the organisation needs more business opportunities to keep its supported employees in work

“If you give a job to us you are supporting someone with a disability. If you don’t know who can do the job, come to Wangarang,” Mr Thomas said.

nadine.morton@ruralpress.com