by TIA LANCASTER

THE atmosphere was welcoming, celebratory and at times even jovial, as the formalities were interspersed with humour and reflection at the Rosewood and District Supporting Communities Inc recent AGM.

The 27th Annual General Meeting was held in the Rosewood Girl Guides Hut and brought together members, volunteers and local representatives for a morning of reflection, recognition and renewal.

It began with a well attended morning tea, followed by the formal proceedings that highlighted the organisation’s extensive impact on the community, during the past year.

Donna Hanlon gave her General Manager’s report, which celebrated the breadth of RADSc’s work, which continues to grow in response to community needs.

Services delivered included family and individual support, emergency relief through food hampers and vouchers, NDIS support navigation, no-interest loans application assistance, technology and literacy support, and access to printing and computers.

These direct supports are complemented by a suite of community development initiatives such as the Community Pop-Up Hubs, Community Welcome Hub, Community Food Project and the flourishing Community Garden.

The RADSc also facilitates a diverse range of community groups that foster connection and wellbeing, including the Light Exercise Group, Community Choir, Seniors Group, Women’s Group, Tai Chi, Line Dancing, Art Group, History Group and the Men’s Workshop.

Signature events like the Rosewood Family Fun Day, Rosewood Seniors Luncheon, and the Rosewood Christmas Festival continue to bring people together and celebrate local spirit.

A key announcement during the AGM was the formal adoption of the organisation’s updated name - Rosewood and District Supporting Communities Inc - a refinement that better reflects the organisation’s long-standing identity and evolving role.

A presentation outlined the communications strategy behind the change, which emphasised clarity, cohesion and community engagement.

The meeting also marked a significant leadership transition.

Founding volunteer Nelley Haly stepped down after more than 25 years of service.

Angela Tallon also stepped down.

Their contributions were acknowledged with deep appreciation.

New committee members elected for the 2025 - 2026 term include Lawrence Wray as Vice President, Rachel Kahler as Secretary, and Grant Kahler as Executive Member. Re-elected members are John Purdon as President, Jenny Simmons as Treasurer and Gaylene Stack as Executive Member.

“Our new committee brings together a diverse experience that will bring positive change to the management of RADSc,” John Purdon said.

“Community collaboration is the keystone of our organisation. Without volunteers and involvement from community, our organisation wouldn’t flourish.”

We are really excited to have such a strong leadership team that brings with them wonderful talents, experience and understanding of our community and its needs.

It is because community members show up and volunteer their time and are dedicated to supporting organisations such as ours that we are able to bring such wonderful support to our area.

Together I am confident we can continue to respond to and meet community need.

Newly elected committee member Grant Kahler said he and Rachel were excited about the opportunity to help support the Rosewood and District Supporting Communities committee and their goals to assist the community through multiple avenues.

“We know Donna and the team are working hard every day to help people in their time of need.”

Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen agreed. He attended in company with Division 4 Councillor David Martin.

“Rosewood and District Supporting Communities continues to evolve and increase the available support for our community. I commend the committee staff and volunteers for providing this vital service.”

The AGM served not only as a formal review but as a celebration of the people and partnerships that make RADSc a cornerstone of the Rosewood community.