As Site Manager for STEPS Tennant Creek, Le-Anne is responsible for running community services, covering an area slightly smaller than the nation of New Zealand.
Tennant Creek is about 500 km north of Alice Springs, and 1000 km south of Darwin, with a population of around 3000. From its central office in the town’s main street, STEPS offers government-funded services to a number of Aboriginal communities in the surrounding area. Some are up to three hours drive away, and only accessible by four-wheel-drive. Conditions during Summer become extreme, with heat approaching 50 degrees.
The unique landscape in and around Tennant Creek are matched by the unique challenges it presents to community organisations. “We spend a lot of time travelling and looking for people,” said Le-Anne, explaining that the nomadic nature of many Indigenous people and the wide open spaces often made delivering programs challenging. Due to the travel needed, trips to communities often require STEPS trainers and representatives to stay in communities over a number of nights. Since starting less than 12 months ago, STEPS continues to establish links and build relationships with like-minded organisations, but is building a strong presence in the area.
Le-Anne said that in the Tennant Creek area STEPS offers employment services for people with disability, a program for ‘at-risk’ youth (Youth Connections), literacy and numeracy training, and is looking to further expand. She said there are currently opportunities for employment for those looking for adventure and a challenge. “Particularly with our youth work we are keen to work with the local Elders and mentors, because they are the ones who can really influence their community,” Le-Anne said. “The elders want the kids to get to school, have an education and move into employment, so we really want them involved with the programs. “Tennant Creek is a great community, and for those with a passion to empower others, looking for a challenge and have a ‘never-give-up’ attitude, it’s a great place to work. “Your not going to solve all the problems here, but there is so much opportunity to make a difference to people’s lives.”
