Published in the Alexandra and Eildon Standard, 9 October 2013

The Marysville and Triangle Community Foundation (MTCF) has moved one step closer to opening for business with advertisements placed for an executive officer.

Following the 2009 bushfires, the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund (VBAF) raised $395 million, including interest, with about 80 percent of this allocated to individuals and families, and around 20 per cent assigned to community recovery projects.

Some unallocated funds remained, and community groups and individuals were invited to put forward proposals for the use of this money, with a public meeting held at Marysville in July 2011.

A number of initiatives were presented, with a majority accepting the establishment of a community foundation to provide continued assistance for the rebuilding and recovery of the region.

The Marysville and Triangle Community Association (MTCA), which had taken on the role of the Community Recovery Committee (CRC) following its disbanding in June 2011, undertook the responsibility of bringing the foundation to fruition.

Working closely with VBAF, the Marysville and Triangle Community Foundation (MTCF) was registered and is now established using $1 million from the VBAF.

It aims to provide benefits not just for Marysville, but shire-wide, by delivering services, making grants and undertaking community leadership and partnership activities.

Chairperson of the MTCA Clive Clayton said recent advertising for members of the foundation board had been successful with a number of highly qualified and experienced people selected, but until the result of probity checks were declared they could not be appointed or identified. This was expected to be resolved within days.

“In anticipation of this and to be able to hit the ground running, the foundation is now advertising for an executive officer,” Mr Clayton said.

“Foundation members are excited and keen to progress as soon as possible with building a legacy for a vibrant, healthy and resilient future across our communities. The executive officer will work closely with the board in achieving these goals.”

The successful applicant will be based in Marysville and must be prepared to work outside of normal business hours when required.

For further particulars see the ‘situations vacant’ section on page 25.