Foundation has a future

By Matt Romania

The West Moorabool Foundation (WMF) has held its inaugural AGM at the Ballan Neighbourhood House and published its first annual report.

With a mission to improve the health and wellbeing outcomes for West Moorabool community members, the Foundation – established earlier this year – has broad powers to promote awareness, provide resources, advocate for health equity, and build partnerships.

Robert Eskdale, Interim President, thanked the Ballan District Health & Care Association Members for their support and patience in establishing the Foundation.

In his Presidents Report, Mr Eskdale said the Foundation has not yet undertaken any activities or programs in the community.

“During our first few months, we concentrated our work on establishing the Foundation and ensuring its structure was fit for purpose.”

Tor Roxburgh, interim Secretary, spoke to The Moorabool News about the foundation’s plans and how West Moorabool residents could get involved.

“We know that the top 10 long-term health conditions in west Moorabool include problems such as cancer, mental illness, diabetes, and dementia,” she said.

“What we don’t yet know is which health issue is the community’s top priority, and therefore what the Foundation’s top priority should be.”

In 2024, Ms Roxburgh and the interim WMF Board said they hope to have a conversation with Foundation members about where to focus their attention and spending.

“When we have the most pressing health issue in our sights, the Foundation’s directors will speak with health experts about the best way to spend some money on the problem.”

The Foundation’s directors are meeting with Dr Sandro Demaio, CEO of VicHealth to learn more about effective community collaboration to prevent disease and improve health.

Ms Roxburgh said the best way to get involved is to join as a Foundation member.

“It’s easy to do. Just download the application form from www.westmooraboolfoundation.com and follow the instructions.

“Being able to nominate a director is another good reason to join as a member,” she said.

The WMF has no staff members and is managed by an interim board of directors who work on a voluntary basis.