Region in need of help

WORK was what used to unite the people of Geelong’s northern suburbs.

Largely, they were hardworking, blue-collar types. Their jobs were on production lines and factory floors. They punched time cards, pulled modest pay packets and ended each week with head held high.

After hours and at weekends they could be found at their sports club. They played, or perhaps their kids did. They supported and volunteered. Some clubs had golden eras and built formidable reputations.

But, sadly, some factories and workshops closed. Jobs became harder to find. It has spiralled to a perilous situation.

As we report today, the Corio-Norlane region now has an unemployment rate of 21.6 per cent, with more than 2500 people unable to find any work.

According to the figures, the region has the largest “unemployed workforce” of almost 2100 small-area regions in the nation and the highest rate of unemployment.

These are unwanted statistics and milestones, even more so in a region that was once defined by its collective ingenuity and willingness to roll-up its sleeves and get to work.

The danger is a region once considered an engine room of Australian industry could slowly become united and characterised by its lack of work.

Some good work is underway to ensure this doesn’t happen, but much more attention and strong leadership is needed.

In Saturday’s Addy we featured stories on the Corio and North Shore footy clubs.

Both deserve praise for the leadership they’re providing the community despite their respective on-field difficulties.

Everyone knows how important a job is for putting food on the table, but what’s harder to measure is the dignity and confidence that comes with gainful employment.

Active involvement in community sport has similar benefits for the community, as these two stories helped demonstrate.

But they and their community need more help.