Koenig to keep balancing duties

Horsham councillor Josh Koenig is confident he can continue to balance professional and municipal responsibilities after his official appointment as Uniting Wimmera’s executive officer.

Mr Koenig said despite taking the reins of one of the region’s largest community-service organisations he remained committed to a full term with Horsham Rural City Council.

His four-year term ends in September-october next year.

“While the appointment is exciting, it doesn’t change a thing. It is business as usual,” Mr Koenig said.

“That I’ve been able to find that balance, through the support of Uniting and the council, has been great.”

Mr Koenig has been Uniting Wimmera’s acting executive officer since the resignation of his predecessor Wendy Sturgess in September last year.

Uniting Vic.tas western Victoria and Tasmania general manager Silvia Alberti said she was delighted to announce Mr Koenig’s appointment.

“Josh has been with Uniting, formerly Wimmera Unitingcare since 2009,” she said.

“During this time he has worked across various programs and has deep knowledge and experience of community-service delivery and the needs of people in the Wimmera.

“Josh holds significant community roles, including on the council, and is a member and participant on a range of sector and community committees.

“He has had a longstanding commitment to the Wimmera and is passionate about ensuring the best possible outcomes for the community. He is a highly respected Uniting and community leader.”

Uniting provides community services to help and support vulnerable people trying to deal with issues associated with ageing, disabilities, youth, families, new-arrivals, mental illness and alchol and drugs.

Uniting Wimmera’s headquarters are in Horsham but its reach across the region extends as far north as Tempy, west of the South Australian border, and south-east beyond Stawell.

Across the region, including annexed services, it has an extended workforce of about 150.

Mr Koenig said he was excited to take on the challenge and proud to lead Uniting’s work across the Wimmera.

“I have a really good senior management team backed up by an incredible workforce,” he said.

“I’m in a fortunate position to be taking over Uniting Wimmera with such a competent group of people in place throughout the organisation.”

Mr Koenig also expressed his commitment to the Wimmera and welcomed competition from other service providers in the region.

“I am focused on moving forward and continuing our high level of support to our service users,” he said.

“I am also committed to building on our culture and collaborative relationships with external stakeholders.

“It’s all about achieving the best possible outcomes for the people we support and doing our best to meet the needs of our community.

“When it comes to competition I welcome it and look forward to working with all involved.

“We’re all riding in the same race in supporting communities. It’s a good space to be in.

“Seeking support early before a situation escalates is really important.

“If we are unable to provide the support you need at Uniting, we can help you link in to a service that can. There is no wrong door.”

Ms Alberti said Mr Koenig would transition into the role immediately.

Mr Koenig reminded people needing support that they could call Uniting Wimmera on 1800 195 114.