This year was a big year for Diversity South, with a move into their new premises on Anstruther Road, plans to purchase new support accommodation, the passing of a beloved team member and uncertainty over state funding.
Members of the organisation’s board, volunteers, dignitaries and families gathered at the Mandurah Surf Life Saving Club to talk about this year’s milestones during the organisation’s annual general meeting.
Guest speaker Wayton Maddeford, who presented the organisation’s financial report, said despite a disappointing deficit due to purchasing and renovating the new premises, Diversity South was growing, it was liquid and financially strong.
Diversity South chief Jillian Liddelow-Hunt updated attendees on the changes and additions to the organisation, including changes in the coordination team, new staff training, and a review of the safety and health management systems.
She also spoke about the changes in the state government’s disability services commissions and the need to adapt to the new national disability insurance scheme (NDIS) by the state government.
“2017 will be another year with many changes in overall disability service provision and further rollout of the NDIS, I’m sure Diversity South will embrace these changes to ensure a positive and productive life for our individuals,” she said.
Guest speaker garden guru Sabrina Hahn talked about gardening as a means of community bonding, meditation and health awareness and gave useful tips to the attendees on how to manage a successful and fruitful garden.
Diversity South patron David Templeman, thanked the organisation for their ongoing community service and presented service awards to several team members for their commitment.
This year’s employee of the year award was for team member Harneet Kaur.