Facing Release With Nowhere to Go

I was born and bred in Brisbane. I’ve been here my entire life besides three years in Moree between 89–92.

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I’m 41 years old now and have spent roughly nine years in custody over 11 episodes. At the end of the year I will be released on court-ordered parole for 16 months.

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So here’s my yarn.

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Every previous time I’ve been in custody I’ve nearly always promised myself and others that I would be better next time. That I would do better and strive harder to not come back in a hurry especially for misdemeanour dumb stuff.

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I did manage to overcome the pressures that were mounting and my sentences reduced and so did the frequency of my incarcerations. I actually spent about eight years in jail between 18 and 30.

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During my 30s I did less than six months. I put that down to anger management, family support, starting my own business and having realistic, achievable goals. I managed my life better and great things began to happen.

The things that I have achieved over the passed 8–10 years are amazing to say the least. I’ve travelled for work, seen almost forgotten family, been to music festivals, saved money, built possessions, made memories and maintained my health.

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Some would say I still have a lot to look forward to. Hmm, I disagree.

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When I get released at the end of this year, I am faced with a massive uphill climb with barely a rope to save me.

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Firstly I’m court-ordered release, so basically kicked out of jail. I have registered for Men’s Reintegration Service but at this point I’ll have no house and no job.

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Both my car and motorbike are in different locations, both unregistered and seized/block by SPER. Which means I can’t sell them or register them until I pay a significant portion off my bill.

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I will be on weekly reporting, parole and will be expected to do programs and urines. I am finding it increasingly difficult to see any light through this dark tunnel.

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I know it pays to attack one problem at a time and try to prioritise what’s most important but in building towards the main goal and my main goal is to be totally free man with access to my kids future and immediate wellbeing.

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How can I remain upbeat and positive knowing that at any time I can be removed from the community and placed back into the cesspool of prison?