HEART OF COLLINGWOOD

The Wellington project is a series I photographed alongside my mentor, uncle and fellow photographer, Philip Wright. We produced the series for the Ballarat International Photo Biennale.

The Wellington Centre is a not-for-profit centre that is located in the heart of Collingwood, Australia. The centre was set up to provide free health care services to the homeless and disadvantaged living in the area, such as chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture and yoga. It serves a far higher purpose however, in providing a safe space, a sense of belonging, a hot tea or coffee, lunch and friendly faces.

We met some beautiful people while creating the Wellington Project and in receiving a grant through the centre, we were also able to bring many of the clients with us for a special day out to Ballarat to see the exhibition, as well as being able to take them out for lunch.

‘It’s been a long time since I did my artwork (Wendy loves to paint). I am pleased I got to do the photos. With all my heart, I hope you continue the good work.’ – Wendy

‘After being homeless for 16 years, with the help and love of The Wellington Centre, I am ready to face the world again.’ – Nigel

‘I am a very privileged, fortunate and lucky 70 year old urban bushie. I hope I am also humble as I express my enormous pride in my three adult and loveable children.

I work hard to extract as much as possible from each day – yesterday is past and tomorrow never comes. I hope to rest each nite knowing my little efforts may have made the world a slightly better place.

I am happily involved with numerous communities to further my many passions including the recent additions of mental health and gender issues. My many long time passions include fire fighting, photography, bushwalking, caring for the environment, music, reading, technology and understanding people.’ Toni

‘I grew up in West Sunshine to Maltese parents. At the age of 50 I discovered I am dyslexic and cannot read or write. School was difficult and I have always had trouble getting a job but when I do – I SHINE! I have always enjoyed working with my hands…’ – Michael

I am a 31 year old local, rehabilitated mental health patient. I have been in the government system for 14 years and am currently trying to recover from a drug habit.’ – Brad

‘I came to Australia in 1999 from Nairobi. All my family have died except for one sister. I want to bring my brothers children to Australia but no-one knows where they are. I feel sick and am very unhappy.’ – Kadija

‘I have lived in the Collingwood estate for about 10 years and I know many people in the area. Because the system is helping me, I like to help the system.’ – John

(John does many hours of volunteer work in the local community each week.)

‘In 2011 I had surgery to remove a brain tumour. After the operation, I was unable to control my limbs and was on a waiting list for a guide dog as I had no periphery vision. I do exercises every day to improve my vision and I no longer need the dog. My self-esteem has returned as I have grown to realise I will no longer be an invalid.’ – Anita

(Anita uses these exercises pictured, which she discovered by accident after realising she could see the shadow of her hand.)

‘Isaac came to Australia from West Papua by boat in 2006 and landed in Weipa. He was taken to Christmas Island for three years, relocated to Perth and then Melbourne where he lives in the highrise in Hoddle Street. Isaac spends his time repairing bicycles as a volunteer. He is 58 years old and has no family in Australia.’