MORNINGTON Peninsulas charity Saltbush Balnarring Beach is on the lookout for a new CEO, after Rachel Connor announced that she would leave the organisation at the end of the year.
Saltbush was established in 1989 with a vision to provide short-term holiday accommodation for people from disadvantaged backgrounds, including those with disabilities, physical or mental illness, asylum seekers, refugees and families recovering from domestic violence.
The organisation caters for more than 1600 people each year for short-term stays in its six purpose-built houses and arranges holiday programs for children to provide respite for parents and carers.
Connor joined Saltbush as a volunteer a decade ago, before joining the board and serving as chairperson for several years. In 2020, she was appointed as general manager and later CEO of Saltbush.
During her time at Saltbush, Connor has introduced a new business name, new programs, capital improvements, and has increased the organisation’s reach to disadvantaged families across Melbourne’s metropolitan area.
“This has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career,” she said.
“The feedback we receive, especially from the kids we help, has provided enormous personal satisfaction. It will be hard to say goodbye.”
Over its 34-year history, Saltbush has also helped foster care families and people experiencing loss, grief and financial hardship.
Chair of Saltbush, Emeritus Professor Phillip Steele, said a search for a new CEO had begun.
“This is a unique and exciting opportunity to lead Saltbush at a time of continuing growth, in a role that impacts the lives people experiencing disadvantage,” he said.
First published in the Western Port News – 10 October 2023
