New Gisborne Foodbank manager Jen Austerberry recently caught up with Georgia Tacey to tell her about her recent appointment, and why volunteering at the Gisborne Foodbank is a worthy cause.
What’s your connection to Gisborne and the Macedon Ranges?
We moved from Melbourne to Gisborne four years ago as my husband and I are both originally from country Victoria and wanted to move more regionally. I have friends across the Macedon Ranges and have always thought Gisborne in particular would be a lovely place to live. Having lived in Melbourne for over 35 years it was the right time to make the move and so as soon as the ring of steel post Covid was lifted we started house hunting.
What do you like about where you live?
There are lots of things that I enjoy about living in the Macedon Ranges. As a passionate gardener the Macedon Ranges is a wonderful place to grow a whole range of plants. There are wonderful nurseries scattered across this area, amazing gardens to visit and a spectacular autumn display of colour. The choice of eateries is extensive, the community feel and choice of clubs, sporting groups, theatre and music productions makes Macedon ranges interesting and a fun place to call home.
Tell us a bit about the Gisborne Foodbank and what you enjoy most about volunteering there.
The Gisborne Foodbank has been operating for over five years. It meets a real need in the area for people facing difficult circumstances to come along on a Wednesday or Friday to a comfortable environment and get support in the form of groceries, fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, personal products and just a friendly ear if needed. We can also direct them to other services that may support and help in their time of need. All of this is offered free of charge. The foodbank is able to do this thanks to the generous support of the community of Gisborne including schools, supermarkets, businesses, individuals and the many volunteers who provide so much support in the day to day running of the foodbank. It is wonderful to see the community working together.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Gisborne Foodbank?
I have just recently retired from my full time employment at La Trobe University as a nursing academic. I heard that the two day volunteer manager position at the Foodbank was available and felt that it was time that I gave back to the community and this seemed a great opportunity to do so. I am able to undertake this role while still working part time as a clinical pilates instructor at Sportz Physio and as a registered nurse at Kyneton Hospital.
Is there anything happening with the Gisborne Foodbank you would like to highlight or shout out?
I think it’s really important that we continue to provide this service to the community and that those who might be struggling at the moment know about us and feel comfortable to come along and get the support they need.
