Crafting coffee, building careers

By Matt Romania

The Barista Blue program, an initiative by Bacchus Marsh Blue Light, continues its commitment to provide young people with valuable life skills, and a pathway to future employment. Through an accredited barista course, participants not only gain a skill set but also vital work experience, enhancing their employment opportunities, and life outcomes for Moorabool youth.

Leading Senior Constable Jim Ross, Victoria Police’s Youth Resource Officer in Moorabool, highlighted the program’s achievements.

“We put the kids through an accredited barista course and part of it is about four hours or more of voluntary work experience at Lola’s Café,” he said.

“It was just something that Blue Light believed in; it’s something of value that can help a young person improve themselves, whether it’s for employment or confidence. The Community Bank has come on board and Lola’s Café were more than happy to have the young people in there.”

Many participants have found confidence and a sense of togetherness through this experience.

“Engaging in this activity isn’t just about work experience, it’s a transformative journey. It breaks the ice for them in relation to Lola’s. More than just building skills, it’s about fostering camaraderie, breaking down barriers, and instilling confidence in each individual.”

As the program evolves, its future iterations aim to increase outreach.

LSC Ross said they’re looking at doing more of these courses.

“Possibly around March next year, and then hopefully we’ll do another one in September so we might be able to get two up and going,” he said,

The project owes its success to several key community partners. Special thanks were extended to the Community Bank Bacchus Marsh, Lola’s Café, and Coimadai Fire Brigade for their support to make the program possible.

In summarising the program’s essence, LSC Ross said, “It’s something we believe in, helping young people.”