Choir of inclusion and inspiration

Jonathon Welch attended Outlook in Pakenham last Thursday. 126840 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

By BRIDGET SCOTT

THE creator of the well-known Choir of Hard Knocks Jonathon Welch shone a light on some hidden talent in Cardinia last week.
The singer who heads the choir, now known as the Choir of Hope and Inspiration, made the trip down to Outlook to start up a singing group with anyone interested from the area.
Outlook Community Services Manager Julie Walton said the idea evolved after Tony Fitzgerald, Anne McCormick and Brian Paynter from Outlook attended a performance by the Choir of Hope and Inspiration.
The group will be formed as part of the Absolutely Everybody program run by Mr Welch, who came to Pakenham last Thursday, 4 September.
“We are encouraging anyone that wants to take part – it’s very inclusive,” Ms Walton said.
“It’s about empowering and bringing people together.
“The choir is usually for the disadvantaged but two groups have joined to make it one inclusive choir with disadvantaged, disabled and mainstream.”
About 30 people turned out for the first rehearsal last week which was based around bonding and introductions.
Mr Welch said it was a great experience at Outlook.
“It was very exciting to come down and work with them,” he said.
“They were absolutely delightful people.”
Mr Welch said the idea behind these programs and choirs is to make people feel included and part of a family.
Rehearsals and meetings will continue for the next six months and Outlook employees said they were excited to see where the venture takes some of those taking part.
Ms Walton said there was a great group of volunteers which also work hard behind the scenes to ensure the success of the meetings.
“It’s a real social connection,” she said.
The Cardinia group will also join forces with La Trobe and Casey for a rehearsal later this month.