WELCOME TO THE PIT CREW!

Over $19,000 was raised at the annual Celebration and Awards night for TRACTION - the Pit Crew BBQ - held on 19th October at “Shed 27” in Capalaba. Sofie Formica, presenter of Channel 7's The Great Day Out, emcee'd the event for the 3rd year in a row and welcomed families and supporters of TRACTION participants as part of the "Pit Crew". 

The purpose of the event was to reflect on another wonderful year for participants and mentors of the program and to recognise TRACTION supporters who generously provide the donations, resources and encouragement, often from behind-the-scenes, that provides the fuel in the tank to keep the TRACTION program rolling.

TRACTION participants hosted their families and friends at the Capalaba workshop and helped showcase the program. TRACTION has empowered more than 350 12-15 year old participants to complete bicycle build and small engine projects since kicking off in July 2015.

It was the first time we’ve honoured participants with the presentation of TRACTION “School Excellence Awards” for students nominated by their schools for demonstrating any of the following:

• Improvements in school attendance
• Improvements in behaviour at school
• Positive contribution in the community
• Improvements in academic performance
• Enhanced self-esteem and social skills

Congratulations to the award winners, including:

1. Riley from Capalaba State College
2. Sam from Yeronga State High School
3. Scott from Victoria Point State High School
4. Allistar from Wellington Point State High School
5. Hayden from Alexandra Hills State High School
6. Travis from Redland District Special School, and
7. Emmanuel from the YMCA Vocational School at Kingston

Crucial funds were raised for TRACTION and things got off to a great start thanks to supporters who donated generously before the event was held to sponsor participants in the program. Sponsorships were secured for 91 participants in the 2018 program.

SPONSOR A TRACTION PARTICIPANT

Special thanks to Jan, Robyn and Richard from the LIONS Club of Capalaba who have been tremendous supporters of TRACTION this year, raising funds for TRACTION and donating critical supplies like tools, paint and sandpaper that help reduce operating costs for TRACTION. The Club also provided its BBQ trailer which was used to prepare gourmet burgers and hot dogs for attendees at the event.

Thank you also to school representatives, fierce advocates for TRACTION, for attending the event and sharing the outcomes they’re seeing being realised back at school by students participating in TRACTION.

Our heartfelt thanks to all guests for joining in the celebrations, including the team from Pitcher Partners and representatives from Cleveland Rotary.
​

SEE PHOTOS FROM THE EVENT