Arbeit macht frei: - Fredrick Töben

Operation Challenge was an initiative of a previous Correctional
Services Minister who believed that the State’s correctional system
should adopt the concept of an American Boot Camp. It must be
stressed, however, that whilst some parts of the program are regimented,
the current structure is far removed from the boot camp philosophy.
We are currently working with our 9th group.
Goals of Operation Challenge
• Provide participants in the program with an opportunity to change
their way of thinking by developing a range of new thinking skills so
that they may reassess their lifestyle and adopt a responsible self
disciplined approach with the aim of becoming responsible members
of the community;
• Provide participants with educational and vocational training to equip
them with the job skills necessary to gain employment opportunities;
• Develop self-esteem and self-confidence through up-skilling;
• Develop a work ethic in participants through a cultural change in their
application to work;
• Develop teamwork and promote the concept of mutual respect, by
taking responsibility for ones own actions and understanding the
consequences, so that they learn to support and consider the needs of
others;
• Enable participants an opportunity to provide reparation to the
community by partaking in numerous environmental restoration
projects and community service programs.
The question is ‘How do we do achieve these goals?’
Staff selection, training and direction play an important role.
Staff need to apply to work in this specialised unit, they need to be
committed to the cause, providing interaction with the client group on a
very personal level. They need to role model behaviour, show support,
be encouraging and motivational to participants.
Staff achieve this by breaking down the barriers, opening up the lines of
communication and developing trust between the prisoners and
themselves. Staff do not wear the traditional officer uniform but dress
appropriately to the occasion, either in a tracksuit or casual clothing.
Staff work side by side with the prisoners whether it be in class, working
with a shovel or painting a building.
Peer Support
Selected long term prisoners are employed in the program to assist staff
in the delivery of some of the programs eg. physical fitness and literacy
tutoring.
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