Hunt on for new Uniting leader

Uniting Wimmera is on the hunt for a new executive officer, after Wendy Sturgess finished her role with the organisation.

Ms Sturgess has confirmed she will not be renewing her contract.

“All good things must come to an end. After almost three years the time is right for me to pursue other opportunities,” she said.

“Since I moved into this role I have gained a deep understanding of and respect for the unique circumstances of life in rural and remote Victoria.

“I am proud of the work that we have done here at Uniting Wimmera in supporting vulnerable and marginalised people.

“I genuinely thank the community for welcoming Max and I with open arms.

“People have been so welcoming and kind, which has made our time here memorable.

“When the time comes, it will be with heavy hearts that we move on.

“I would encourage other professionals to consider coming to live and work here.”

Ms Sturgess said a highlight of her work was her involvement with the Wimmera Southern Mallee Regional Partnership, which presented opportunities to not only advocate for more community services, but other projects such as infrastructure and technology.

She said she felt confident she was leaving Uniting Wimmera in good hands, with a strong and committed leadership team.

Acting chief

Josh Koenig will step into an acting executive officer role during a search for a replacement.

Ms Sturgess said Mr Koenig was a natural fit for the interim role, having been with the organisation for more than 10 years and considering his experience working with the community councillor.

Mr Koenig said Uniting Wimmera thanked Ms Sturgess ‘for her leadership and tireless work advocating for the Wimmera over the past three years’.

“On a personal note, I am sad to see Wendy go and I’m sure my fellow colleagues would agree she has been an excellent leader and mentor to all of us,” he said.

“She leaves us in a strong position to build on the achievements of recent years.

“For example, we will continue to advocate for a safety hub in Horsham to provide a place of safety for people facing family violence.

“I also look forward to continuing our work with Goolum Goolum in the out of home care space and the continued expansion of alcohol and other drug services such as enabling parents whose children are subject to a family reunification order to access AOD services faster.” as a Horsham