Farewell to Grove Neighbourhood House leader

FOR more than two decades, Nicki Dunne has been a friendly face for thousands of community members as manager of the Bellarine Training and Community Hub (BTACH), formerly known as the Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House.
After 22 years of dedicated service to the Bellarine and wider community, Ms Dunne has resigned, leaving behind an impressive legacy.
BTACH committee of management president Janine Collier, praised Ms Dunne for her long-term dedication and commitment to BTACH and the community.
“Nicki has been instrumental in guiding the organisation from its humble beginnings as the Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House in The Parade to a vibrant, welcoming and well utilised training facility and community centre on John Dory Drive,” she said.
Under Ms Dunne’s leadership, BTACH has become a nationally recognised Registered Training Organisation (RTO) while retaining its connection to the local community via community education in general interest, computer, health and wellbeing and craft courses.
“Nicki’s dedication and advocacy on behalf of the youth of the Bellarine has been a highlight of her career at BTACH. Without doubt, the co-ordination of the Friday night ‘Drop In’ sessions for youth between 12-17, has been her passion.
“The sessions, which include fortnightly excursions and highly successful annual camps, have provided a safe, inclusive and fun experience for hundreds of young people across the wider Bellarine for many years.”
Ocean Grove local Judy Jamieson has been appointed as interim manager, while BTACH recruits a replacement.