From Country
Mujaay Ganma
Learning a little about Philanthropy – from Mujaay Ganma Foundation
The Mujaay Ganma Foundation was asked to join FRRR’s CEO Natalie Egleton and philanthropic organisation representatives on a panel at the Philanthropy Australia 2024 Conference in Adelaide earlier this month. The theme ‘Shifting Perspectives, Shifting Practice’ was ideal for bringing fresh ideas to the fore. We were part of a panel to present what the IRCF program was able to achieve in the Nambucca Valley during the last 5 years. In particular, we were asked to share how IRCF funding had worked for our organisation both directly in building our capacity and indirectly in how we leveraged this funding to attract more funds. We also explored how this place-based funding approach has supported a better sense of working together across the Valley. We enjoyed sharing the outcomes achieved through both philanthropic funds and other support provided through IRCF.
For those who are not familiar with the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) it was through their ‘Investing in Rural Community Futures’ (IRCF) program https://ircf.frrr.org.au that the Nambucca Valley received 1 million dollars over 5 years to build the capacity of not-for-profit organisations in the valley. A group of people from the Valley met and talked about all those in the valley have in common. This was, of course, the Country, the land, and waterways, that Gumbaynggirr have known and cared for over thousands of years and that all who have come here more recently now call home. The Valley Hub was initially established through IRCF funds provided by VFFF.
Thomas & Wurinda at Adelaide Convention Centre. PA24
The first thing we learned at the conference was that philanthropy is about giving, about doing good, and about benefiting humanity. Importantly, we learnt that it includes both human and financial capital. This is significant as it can change the way we approach the seeking of funds from philanthropists. If we also see ourselves as being philanthropists, then it is more like we are inviting them to join with us to achieve our purpose, or the project outcomes, as the case may be.
The session we contributed to was called Investing in Rural Community Futures: thriving not-for-profits for thriving regional places
Natalie Egleton (FRRR) facilitated the discussion while Jenny Wheatley CEO of the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation (VFFF) and Megan Parsons of the Snow Foundation spoke about their roles while Thomas Stanbrook (MGF), Wurinda Gill (MGF) and Janette Blainey (MGF) shared their experience of being a not for profit that was able to achieve benefits for community, through the program.
The interest shown in this session was affirming for us as much as it was for place-based funding, such as that received from FRRR’s IRCF Program. The 100 or so people who joined our session were interested in how our organisation and the projects actually worked. The keen interest from those present came from the work being seen as ‘real’. Thomas and Wurinda’s contribution helped to make it come alive. We were so strongly supported by Natalie, Jenny, and Megan that our nerves settled and our sharing was well received.
The Panel… Investing in Rural Community Futures: thriving not-for-profits for thriving regional places
An absolute highlight of the conference was a side event on day one. It was our visit to Ngutu College. This 3-year-old college sees…
‘Aboriginal cultures as our soul,
Young people as our heart and
Creativity as our backbone.’
Ngutu is committed to leading education by empowering children and young people to creatively and confidently engage with their learning and social development. The principal, Andrew Plastow is supported by a committed Board and dedicated staff. The children we met were curious, respectful, engaged, and comfortable. From what we could see the educational settings were supportive of diverse learning needs and strategies. This Not-For-Profit has succeeded through working with government funding, philanthropic donations, loans and volunteers to establish itself and continue to grow in under 4 years. Check out their website https://www.ngutucollege.org.au
One of the ‘inside’ Ngutu learning environments –
We were also introduced to Giving Circles and Collective Giving . We listened to those who are bringing First Nations-led philanthropy into the philanthropic landscape. The Conference opened with an interesting session on Leading with Impact and finished with the 50-year history of Philanthropy Australia. It was a privilege to be there as a voice for Mujaay Ganma and the Nambucca Valley IRCF program as an effective funding model for regional Australia.
Read more about Mujaay Ganma here:
.https://www.instagram.com/mujaay.ganma/
Females In Agriculture Mini Field Day
This event is FREE to enter, check it out to develop an insight into Agriculture, join in on many workshops, and see some fabulous demonstrations of skills and knowledge from workers within the Agricultural industry.
Don’t miss out on this fabulous opportunity.
https://www.instagram.com/jb_bowraville/
Valley Feature
Meet the Candidates
DAVID JONES – THE GREENS
We’re all in this together.
I have the experience of 8 years on the Nambucca Council and prior to that one term on the Bendigo Council, with two of the four years as mayor.
The experience of being a full time mayor in such a setting and with such scale gives me a unique set of qualifications. If elected to the mayoral role or reelected as a Cr, I will be able to hit the ground running from day one.
What really matters is being a ‘proactive Cr’. There have been a few ‘iconic’ issues during the last 8 years of the Nambucca Council and experience must translate into ‘doing’.
Planning is where the community has the opportunity to have controls and a realisation of our vision for what we want our valley to be. Blueberries are a great example.
In the previous term of the Nambucca council I worked with other Cr’s to achieve real planning controls, Cr’s must be proactive.
Finally, as a candidate I am committed to the long-term sustainability and protection of the wonder that is the natural beauty and charm of our valley. We must protect and preserve, I ask for your support and vote.
TAMARA MCWILLIAM – CASTLE – INDEPENDENT
I have deep generational roots in the Nambucca Valley, not only was I raised here, but I also raised my children here. Having been in business in the Valley for over twenty years, I understand what businesses need. With my family all grown up, I have time to give back to the community and proudly volunteer time to local not-for-profits. It is so nice to be able to give back to the community that has supported me throughout my early years and business life.
I feel I have some great innovative ideas and with my business and not-for-profit experience, I am aware of the issues that affect the community, and need addressing such as cost of living, infrastructure, crime, the environment, and culture.”
I have the knowledge and expertise to put forth community needs to council and fight for what is right for the broader community. I feel communication is the key to a connected community and I am excited at the prospect of being that link of communication between the people and council.
GARRY LEE – INDEPENDENT
I have lived and worked in the Nambucca Valley since 1972.
My sons Timothy, Clint and Christopher were educated Macksville High School where Clint became School Captain. I served in the NSW Police Force for 32 years, was involved in PCYC’s and helped to establish PCYC at Kempsey.
A primary producer on the family farm at Utungun, I have broad financial experience as the director of a pastoral company which services roads. I am an active volunteer with the RFS and the Utungun Hall. My focus will be community safety, sound financial management, and infrastructure. I hope to continue the commitment to the community as demonstrated by Mayor Hoban.
JANE SMITH – INDEPENDENT
‘Putting my hand up to be a councilor comes from me wanting to do my part. I see lots of great opportunities in our region and with 15 years in hospitality, including Cockatoo Island event & venue manger, taking on Matilda’s & starting the Nambucca Markets, I’m ready to bring some fun and excitement to our community. This is what I’m running on:
Sprucing Up Our Valley
Freshen up our existing infrastructure, signage & main streets
The River That Connects Us
Reduce pollution, activate the river & support the oyster industry.
Let’s Have Some Fun
Support and grow our events, venues, markets, culture & arts
Homes, Homes, Homes
Valley specific planning and government funding for housing
Space for Everyone
Spaces for young adults, dog owners, the Aboriginal community, Gumbaynggirr people, youth, LGBT+ individuals, and young families.
MARTIN BALLANGARRY – INDEPENDENT
Uncle Martin Ballangarry is a Gumbaynggirr Elder and current Nambucca Valley Councillor running for re-election for his sixth term. He has been a custodial voice to Council and collaborated with colleagues to achieve outcomes requested by Nambucca Valley residents.
Uncle Martin is committed to continuing innovative representation for all Aboriginals and for everyone in the Nambucca Valley.
‘I continue to stand for honesty, fairness and the betterment of our community. I have worked in Family Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation for 45 years in a voluntary capacity. My vision is to keep moving forward in addressing issues that will enhance different outcomes for the betterment of Nambucca Valley local communities.’
Uncle Martin believes in planning for population growth by considering the environment as well as lobbying State and Federal government agencies for affordable housing for young families. He will continue to support improving facilities and opportunities for youth, and Gumbaynggirr and Aboriginal Tourism.
TROY VANCE – INDEPENDANT
As a current sitting councilor with a proven track record of serving the Nambucca Valley, I am dedicated to supporting our community’s growth and well-being. If elected again, I will continue to champion the rights of our local farmers, support local businesses to help them prosper and tourism to thrive, promote sustainable development, and work towards reducing the cost of living for our residents. My commitment to open, accountable government ensures transparent decision-making processes that prioritize the best interests of the 23,000 people living in our valley. With experience in local governance and a deep understanding of our community’s needs, I am prepared to continue serving and making decisions that positively impact our valley’s future. Your support in the upcoming NSW local government election will allow me to further contribute to the prosperity and harmony of the Nambucca Valley
JAMES ANGEL – INDEPENDENT
I have five kids aged between 5 and 18.
This is a great place for my children to grow and develop. I have a genuine love of the Nambucca Valley. I am engaged in all things community, from junior to senior sports. As my two local businesses have evolved throughout the past twenty years, I have an understanding and interest in local business growth.
We need to bring the community together so that people have a better understanding of agriculture, and all our local businesses, to work on issues together, not with a closed mind. We may not all agree but we need to respect one another. We must support local businesses.
Protection for our valley’s individuality is so important, and I believe in the growth across all sectors to find a solid future for our valley. I have enjoyed my first term on Council. It has reinvigorated my drive to run, and to continue my commitment to support this valley.
LJUBOV SIMSON – INDEPENDENT
OUR SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
As a mother, caretaker, farmer, businesswoman, and educator I am committed to supporting sustainability and stewardship of all the resources within the Nambucca Valley – the health and well-being of the community, the land, and its people.
I will work in partnership with the whole community in supporting sustainable development, building climate resilience, prioritising health and well-being, encouraging buy- and make-local, together ensuring food, water, environmental and economic security for the Nambucca Valley.
With over 30 years of lived experience in education and public service leadership and management, community strategic planning, social engagement and partnerships I have a proven track record in making big things happen by Walking the Talk and I am committed to supporting the Nambucca Valley in building Our Sustainable Future.
Right to Farm so let’s Farm Right, Sustainable Development through a Local Circular Economy, Supporting Governance for an Interconnected Community.
SUSAN JENVY – LABOR
The Home-Grown Candidate
I have lived here for 30 years, and farmed sustainably for twenty of those years, which included winning industry awards, and sitting on grower associations. I have participated in the cultural, and sporting life of our towns; joined pre-school and high school P&Cs, even becoming President of Nambucca Heads High School P&C.
I am a two-term councillor, experienced in local government, active on the Clean Energy Committee, the Access Committee, a government Koala Advisory Panel and council delegate on small halls.
I am the current chair of Arts Mid North Coast which is a regional arts development organisation. I am President of the community owned -Bowraville Community Centre, and work as a NDIS Support Worker. I have a BA Communications degree and years ago worked as an arts journalist. I also have experience as a small business owner.
I stood for Labor as a candidate in the 2019 State Elections and have strong links into state and federal governments.
MARK PERCIVAL
Originally from Port Macquarie, I studied at Ryde School of Horticulture. I am a career horticulturalist Self-Employed as a Farm advisor specializing in Plant nutrition and sustainable methods of soil management. I previously taught diploma of horticulture at TAFE between 1993 and 2018, prior, I worked for North Sydney Council between 1991 and 1995 as Parks Technical Officer covering community consultation on vegetation management in North Sydney, and contributed to the Cremorne Reserve Management Plan vegetation management strategy and a detailed soil survey.
I have also worked in fertilizer sales and marketing, compost sales and marketing, and production of soil inoculums for farms and local gardens. I moved to Bellingen in 1996 and have operated as a self-employed technical advisor and educator until present. I moved to Bowraville in 2021.
Hoping to contribute to a sustainable council approach to the environment, the community, and the local economy. Support sustainable development and I want to improve community access to Council, and community inclusion with particular reference to youth, aged, and indigenous groups.
Spotlight on
CAFE DUO – NAMBUCCA HEADS
Did you know you can order your coffee online at CAFE DUO! Just follow the link below!
https://www.cafeduo.com.au
Serving Champion blend by Artisti Coffee Roasters
Monday – Friday 6:30am – 1pm
Saturday – 7am-12pm
Sunday – Closed
Community Strategic Plan pop-up, drop-in event .
The Nambucca Valley council has been out and about in the Nambucca Valley Community for the Community Strategic Plan pop-up, drop-in event . There is still time to have your say! Share your thoughts in the online survey, available up until the 30th August 2024. Your feedback will directly influence the vision and themes of the updated Community Strategic Plan.
GOODSAM
GoodSAM is a first responder APP. If you are trained in first aid you can make a difference in the Nambucca Valley community by simply downloading the GoodSAM Responder App today. By downloading this App you could save a life. If you are in the immediate vicinity of a cardiac arrest you will be alerted through the App on your phone so you can start CPR or basic first aid in the critical minutes before the emergency services arrive. The GoodSAM platform is highly governed and secure, with checks to ensure that all responders are medically qualified. Once you are verified you will join our network of community lifesavers.
Give back to your Nambucca Valley community and beyond by becoming a GoodSAM.
VW SPECTACULAR
👏🏽 C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S 👏🏽
An incredible $9000 was raised from this Nambucca Valley iconic VW Spectacular. These funds will go to charity groups Nambucca Rotary, Nambucca Lions, Shoretrack, and NSW Fire and Rescue !! What an amazing effort by all involved! Congratulations.
