A group of overseas workers at a pork processing facility have been learning about Aussie language, food and the national obsession with sport as part of a cultural induction designed to ease the transition into Australian living.
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The group of 15 newcomers from the Philippines, Brazil, South Korea and Japan have been engaged in the program while employed by Rivalea Australia at Corowa.
The company hopes it will break down barriers and make it easier for their growing multicultural workforce, and also establish strong friendships.
The community service organisation, Intereach, has been running the program.
Each session has offered an opportunity for personal growth and cultural immersion.
Shannon Le-Lievre, a member of Intereach’s Family and Mental Health team, along with community linker Amber Murphy, jointly curated a comprehensive series of 10 sessions designed to elevate English language skills while nurturing a deeper understanding of Australian culture, local amenities and recreational activities.
“Our aim was not only to enhance language skills but to create a warm and inclusive space for individuals from diverse backgrounds to connect, share experiences, and build lasting relationships within the community,” Ms Le-Lievre said.
Guided by the expertise of Intereach staff and supported by dedicated local volunteers, the sessions held at the Corowa Community Centre and other facilities created a platform for learning and interaction.
Ms Le-Lievre said Amber’s leadership was a driving force, ensuring each session was informative and enjoyable, fostering an environment where participants felt valued and empowered.
Shannon Le-Lievre from the Intereach Family and Mental Health team and Japanese international worker Shoko, at Rivalea.
Riverlea HR business partner Vicki Beekman said embracing the power of language and being active members of local communities was important to Rivalea and its staff.
“By equipping our international workforce with language skills, we empower individuals and strengthen teams and by being involved in local community activities we help bridge the gap between cultures and foster understanding and respect among our employees and their new communities,” she said.
Intereach Families and Mental Health senior manager Robert Phillips said the project laid the foundation for further businesses to engage in a program that had so many benefits to regional and rural communities.
“The initiative has been a testament to Intereach’s mission to facilitate meaningful connections and empower individuals to thrive within their community,” Mr Phillips said.
Culminating the latest journey, the event’s final session was held at the Corowa Bowls Club where the team enjoyed their hand at bowls and Rivalea’s pork provisions to add a touch of culinary delight.
Intereach has 17 offices across southern NSW, north/central Victoria and the Mallee, with more than 500 staff, supporting children and families, older people, people living with disabilities, mental health and carers.
Rivalea has a network of company-owned and contract farms across southern NSW and central Victoria processing pigs for Australian and international markets.
It is part of the JBS Australia Pork Division that includes pig breeding and progeny raising enterprises.
