BHP staff volunteer time to beautify Sandalwood Family Centre

Mine workers have taken time out of their day to help support a Kalgoorlie-Boulder not-for-profit group by creating a cleaner, safer and more beautiful space for community events.

A team of volunteers from BHP spent their Wednesday morning at the Sandalwood Family Centre helping sand, paint and trim the place into shape.

Centre chairperson Donna Malec said with the BHP team’s help, the centre would be a more inviting place.

“There are a number of jobs on our wish list that have been sitting on there since I’ve been chair, which has been about six or seven months,” Ms Malec said.

“There has just been no money in the budget, so we are very grateful that we’ve now ticked off about six big jobs off our wish list that we just needed to fix.”

The Sandalwood Family Centre offers a space for people from all corners of the community to run events, workshops, playgroups and parties.

The centre is known for its popular intergenerational playgroup which brings together toddlers and older residents each Monday.

BHP Nickel West superintendent work management planning Dilek Ozdemir said the project benefited the community and staff alike.

“We’re proud to support the Sandalwood Family Centre and the critical role it plays in providing support and resources to vulnerable families, individuals with disabilities and community groups,” she said.

“Giving back to the community where we live and work fosters a sense of camaraderie and team bonding, and collaborating on community initiatives outside the workplace promotes stronger relationships, leadership, builds trust and enhances morale.

“It also provides a chance for our people to step outside their comfort zones, broaden their perspectives and develop empathy and understanding for diverse communities and issues.”