What’s Happening
Rockhampton’s own Dean Loram is transforming the lives of at-risk local youth one brushstroke at a time.
A master of the craft having been in the painting industry for 41 years, the local Dulux Paints Territory Manager has rallied 35 young people, many from troubled backgrounds, to renovate local buildings, in conjunction and in partnership with Transition To Success which is providing the young people apprenticeship opportunities in the Yeppoon and Rocky area.
Why It Matters
What began just as a small community project has evolved into a beacon of hope by giving at-risk kids not just a skill but a second chance at getting their lives on track, and, more importantly, something getting them up in the morning that they’re stoked to be a part of and a sense of purpose about.
Zoom In
Dean, who’s been in the painting industry for 41 years, didn’t just see the problem—more importantly, he created a solution.
Dean discussed the idea with Senior Transition Officer Ricky McHugh and seen there was an opportunity to help young people disengaged from educational pathways into employment opportunities while giving back to community at the same time. Transition To Success (T2S) is a program targeted at 15-18 year old’s that are in the justice system, at risk of entering the justice system or disengaged from education or employment.
Providing an opportunity to change their story and learn new skills for a brighter future.
By partnering with the Transition To Success program and local Dulux accredited painters, Dean has spearheaded four successful community projects since 2022 which included:
- Revitalised local band groups
- Sporting organisations
- Scout groups, and;
- The Salvation Army
Each young person involved in a project receives not only a graduation certificate and Dulux gear to boost their self-esteem, but also invaluable work experience that could set them on a new path.
Zoom Out
This isn’t just about a fresh coat of paint; it’s about a fresh start for those who sometimes simply started out in life on the wrong track.
Also, in an ageing industry, painting in general has been desperate for young talent, and, Dean’s initiative is more than a community service—it’s a recruitment drive for the future of the
profession.
Rocky Revitalised
Overall for Rockhampton and Yeppoon and the region as a whole, this initiative is a win-win.
Local buildings can get a facelift, and young people get a second chance at life.
The initiative and completed works are shining examples of how one person’s passion can ripple through a community, creating lasting positive change.
And, the community is taking note, with organisations now reaching out to participate in this transformative project.
What To Look For Next
Following the initiative’s success, the efforts are to be recognised at the state level, with Dean set to receive the Queensland Child Protection Week ‘Transition 2 Success’ award—a well-deserved honour for a man who’s painting brighter futures, one brushstroke at a time.
As Dean prepares to accept his award on 29 August, Rockhampton and the surrounding regions can take pride in knowing that this isn’t just about paint, it’s about providing opportunities in the region where none existed.
And, that showing that with a little guidance and a lot of heart, even the most troubled youths can be guided towards a brighter, more colourful future.
So, if you have a local project that could use a fresh coat of paint, contact Dean and his crew of talented and passionate young locals.
