I must start this report by thanking my fellow committee members, Karen Kisala, Centre Manager and staff for their absolute dedication to the wellbeing of the Centre.

The devastating fires of Black Saturday disrupted many people’s lives and certainly our Centre, causing many programs to be cancelled or delayed in delivery. Our condolences go out to the family and friends of our members who lost their lives and to those, including our staff and trainers, who lost their homes and other property.

The impact on our ‘business’ was severe and the staff worked tirelessly throughout the year to keep the Centre operational, to advocate for assistance and to find new markets to replace those that were lost due to this disaster. It was also the year that saw ‘The Men’s Shed’ commence. By the close of the year, 28 men had visited the shed at some stage. Alan and Ollie are great facilitators and have never ending ideas for the men and their skills.

Attendance in courses was generally lower than usual and only recovered to half capacity by the end of the year. Changes to government subsidies have also had an impact on our delivery and have caused the removal of some short courses from the program. The State Government’s new policy in the area of vocational training has had an impact on our resources, but we believe it the right direction for this organisation and the community we serve.

We celebrated our 30th birthday in October with a wonderful afternoon of music and food which was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended. Many old friends took the opportunity to catch up with each other and witnessed the unveiling of our lovely leadlight sculpture, a class community project, and the unveiling of the Commemorative Birthday Quilt. This now hangs in Room 1 for all to enjoy.

I have been the Centre’s representative on the Shire’s Healesville Memorial Hall Refurbishment Committee for the last 5 years. It is satisfying to have seen this project to the point where the works required are about to commence with the relocation of the library.

I feel I must once again take this opportunity to congratulate the staff on their team work and dedication in keeping the Centre continually running smoothly throughout this really difficult year. Thank you to the volunteers who give their time and skill in the Op-shop, office and garden.

Lastly I thank my fellow Committee Members for all their support and on being committed to the Centre and the difficult decision making we have had to deal with during the past year.

Janet Goodwin
President