Katherine Doorways Hub restores hope to local community
Katherine Doorways Hub restores hope to local community
24 July 2018
The Katherine Doorways Hub art wall, designed by Hub members, has become a town talking point.
An art wall, haircuts and toiletries have been on the agenda for The Salvation Army’s Katherine Doorways Hub in Northern Territory.
The new art wall features concepts and inspiration from Hub members, who drew many of the wall designs on paper for professional artists and other young people, to paint.
“The Man from Snowy River is everyone’s favourite movie here, so that’s why it features,” explained Harley Dannatt, Katherine Doorways Hub Coordinator.
“Everyone always stops to watch the famous scene when he rides down the hill. An elderly Aboriginal man and former stockman (coincidentally named Banjo) said we should put that on the wall, and everyone enthusiastically agreed.
“We are thankful to Katherine Regional Arts – KRA and Anglicare NT for their professional assistance.”
Haircuts
Experienced Queensland barber, Nathan Fawkner, was in Katherine to visit his father, and spent a day at the Doorways Hub trimming and styling for a cause.
“Nathan cut hair for six hours straight and saw more than 20 people,” said Harley.
Nathan said he hoped a haircut would put a smile on someone’s face and provide a confidence boost.
“I thought what they do [at the Hub] was really good so I thought I would come down and help,” he said. “People can come here, have a feed, wash their clothes and have a shower, they can do it all, I’ve just added a haircut to that list.
“I know when I feel down and my hair is a bit messy, a haircut makes me feel myself again. These guys can come in, have a chat, get fussed over and walk out with a new cut.
“The reactions have been great and it has been a really good chance to chat to the locals.”
Nathan said he is keen to make his impromptu barbershop at the Hub a regular set-up as he visits his dad every couple of months or so.
“It is great to see people having access to a swish city haircut,” said Harley. “People are leaving with big smiles; it has just been brilliant for the Hub.”
Breaking down barriers
A new pink vending machine has been installed at the Katherine Doorways Hub to help women in need with feminine hygiene products. The vending machine dispenses period packs consisting of two pads and six tampons free of charge.
The dispenser is ensuring women and girls who might be experiencing or at risk of homelessness always have access to sanitary products.
“Women can come [to the Hub] without any interaction,” said Harley. “They can walk in the door and access the machine without talking to anyone. We are a resource centre, so we try to provide as many resources as we can for the community.”
The vending machines are an initiative of Share the Dignity, an Australian charity founded by Rochelle Courtenay.
The machines have been installed across Australia in poverty-stricken schools, homeless shelters and domestic violence refuges.
Comments
Brilliant !