A Delta outbreak in a remote aboriginal community prompted Linfox, last year, to mobilise a semi-trailer to the town of Wilcannia on the fringes of western NSW.
As part of a government response involving emergency services, police and the Australian Defence Force, Linfox provided the vehicle as a pop-up emergency hub for health workers, counsellors, local indigenous groups and volunteers to support the administering of COVID-19 shots.
The trailer, which was pulled by an MAN TGX prime mover, also provided a management centre for the distribution of food hampers donated by OzHarvest for people isolating in their homes.
The Linfox trailer was donated by Linfox founder Lindsay Fox in 2017, when it was repurposed as a mobile youth centre for Youth Off The Streets, a not-for-profit youth organisation that provides young people in need with safety, support and opportunities to build a positive future.
“We were pleased to provide much-needed support for the Wilcannia community in partnership with Linfox,” CEO of Youth Off The Streets, said Lex Nadine Lutherborrow.
“It was great to see the semi-trailer become a vital support centre during a very challenging time for Wilcannia, and a wonderful example of Youth Off The Streets and Linfox working together to support communities in need.”
Linfox Fleet Manager, Special Projects, Mick Best drove the truck to Wilcannia.
“In a town of less than 750 overwhelmed by COVID-19, supporting the community, getting them vaccinated quickly and assisting the response teams was crucial,” said Best.
“We are delighted the Linfox Youth Off The Streets trailer provided a safe, useful space to support Wilcannia’s emergency management operation.”
Founded in 1991 by Father Chris Riley, Youth Off The Streets provides a range of wraparound support services to young people, their families and communities.