Media Release
Refinery's History Helps Northern Suburbs Children's Future
18/12/2009
Money raised by Shell Geelong Refinery employees and contractors has enabled the refinery to donate 100 new children’s books to the northern suburbs PLAYconnect programme, managed by Glastonbury Child and Family Services.
Money raised by Shell Geelong Refinery employees and contractors has enabled the refinery to donate 100 new children’s books to the northern suburbs PLAYconnect programme, managed by Glastonbury Child and Family Services.
During the past month, a coffee table book about the refinery’s history - originally printed to commemorate its 50-year anniversary in 2004 - has been available for employees and contractors to buy for a gold-coin donation.
Shell Geelong Refinery Communications Advisor, Jessica Marriner, said as the principal supporter of PLAYconnect in the northern suburbs the refinery is always looking at ways to extend its contribution to the programme.
“The refinery has been an important part of Geelong for the past 55-years so it is fitting that funds raised by selling books about our history will contribute towards the development and education of children to benefit their future,” said Jessica.
The PLAYconnect programme is for parents with children aged from birth to four years and assists children in achieving developmental milestones by coaching parents in how to play and learn with their child. This coaching will help children develop strong foundations for learning.
PLAYconnect Coordinator, Beth Kershaw, is delighted to receive the large book donation, which she said is much needed.
“Delivery of the PLAYconnect programme is conducted via home visits or playgroup sessions throughout the northern suburbs,” said Beth.
“Reading activities are an important part of the programme which is why Glastonbury offers a library service for the families involved. This encourages parents to interact even more with their children and helps foster a love of reading in the child,” she said.
“Some of our current library collection was starting to age so this wonderful donation from Shell could not have come at a better time.”
For more information on the PLAYconnect programme visit www.glastonbury.org.au - opens in new window. Information about Shell Geelong Refinery’s social investment programme can be found at www.shell.com.au/geelong.
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Media enquiries please contact:
Beth Kershaw, Glastonbury Child and Family Services - Tel: 03 5222 6911
Jessica Mariner, Shell Geelong Refinery - Tel: 03 5273 8647 or 0410 655 162