Northern Territory to set the pace for youth in detention

Selected youth detainees may soon be introduced to the discipline of competitive cycling, thanks to the mechanical expertise of adult inmates at the Darwin Correctional Centre.

Northern Territory Minister for Correctional Services John Elferink said a recent project to repair and remodel a former Australia Post motorcycle as a 'pacing scooter' for the Darwin Cycling Club has opened negotiations for suitable detainees to join the club and train in the sport.

Minister Elferink stated "competitive cycling requires dedication, commitment, an enormous amount of self-discipline and self-belief- attributes many youth detainees lack in their personal lives.

"Like most young people, they are passionate about sport and this is one more avenue to explore to address their offending behaviour and prepare them for crime free lives once they are released back into the community.

"The cycling programs offered by the Darwin Cycling Club certainly address these issues with their emphasis on personal development and personal responsibility regardless of riding ability."

"I would encourage youth detainees to take advantage of the opportunity to train in a sport that could take them to the heights of international competition."

Minister Elferink said three prisoners at the Darwin Correctional Centre used their skills to repair and remodel the 'pacing scooter'.

He added "these detainees are able to practice skills they have already acquired in the confines of the prison.

"If a prisoner has the ability to work, learn, and use their skills, that is exactly what they will do.

"I do not want to see prisoners sitting bored in their cells when they can be resourceful and challenged.

"The skills shown by the prisoners in the repairing of the 'pacing scooter' are ones that can provide them with meaningful employment on their release."