The PCYC Bowen WORKfit Program is a life skills and work readiness program tailored to meet the needs of young people aged 15–24 years, who require support to re-engage in school, enrol in further study or to gain employment.
Bowen is classified as a low socio-economic area with high unemployment rates. Through extensive consultation, it was identified that complex barriers existed for young people to gain worthwhile employment in Bowen. As a result, the WORKfit program was developed and ultimately delivered through funding support from the Department of Education and Training. In 2016/17 a total of 34 young people participated in the program; almost 40 per cent identified as Indigenous, 95 per cent either gained employment, engaged in further study or volunteered for a not-for-profit organisation. All participants disengaged with school returned to the classroom following this program.