Message from the CEO.

Dear colleagues, we have started the year much like we ended 2019. We have been busy, supporting and assisting our network with the ripple effect of the bush-fires.

As I write this update, I can say that the extreme fires conditions and effects from the bush-fires have eased, however the impact of the event will continue for a long time. During December and January COA experienced a very busy period as the volume of work increased dramatically. Fire affected areas meant additional resources and the process of scheduling and rescheduling services increased, this was a result of changes to the client’s location (relocation) and restricted access to specific regions.

Again, I want to acknowledge and thank the number of organisations involved and the collaboration of staff.  There was a need to coordinate between hospitals, LHD, and the service providers across various regions to locate clients whereabouts and appropriately assess and coordinate the services as conditions changed.

So far, I can report that there has been a positive result as clients and staff identified have been safe and well supported during these times.

Close to home

On a sad note, the impact of the bush-fires has been very close to COA. Our Board Chair, Sara Haslinger’s home burnt down 2 weeks ago in the Southern Highlands of NSW. The COA community is rallying behind Sara who is taking the time needed to support her family during this difficult time. To read Sara’s personal story  please see her blog: https://housingtrust.org.au/sara-haslinger-after-the-fires/