What an incredible journey through East Gippsland Shire!
ABV team George Barrett and Neil Smith travelled an area of 20,940 kilometres with Assoc. Professor Maxine Kelly from Deakin University to meet with community stakeholders as part of our Victoria program's engagement.
Being community-led means before we can work in a community, we first need to understand the landscape, ask what is needed, and then sit and listen. Once we have a deep understanding, we can bring our resources where they will work best.
It was great to see some familiar faces of people we had previously connected with while working in Victoria. Authentic relationships are how we build trust, which is essential for our support to work.
The team met with representatives from Swifts Creek Community Centre, Wairewa Hall, Gippsland Shire Council, Future of Orbost & District, Benambra Community Neighbourhood House, Omeo and Lakes Entrance.
Each town we visited presented its unique set of challenges and strengths, but what was truly inspiring was the shared spirit of resilience and innovation. This unity in diversity is a powerful reminder of the incredible potential within our regional communities.
Our team feel privileged to have witnessed this firsthand and are excited about the future of these communities.
Neil and George are pictured at the community BBQ with Louise Oswald from the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Maxine Kelly from Deakin University (Resilient Regions Program Partner).
