Seats Open At The Table That Keeps The Whitsundays Safe

Contributed with thanks by Whitsundays Counselling and Support.

‍

Calling all passionate locals looking to make a difference!  

‍

Fresh off the back of being named the Community Champion at the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards, Whitsunday Counselling and Support (WCS) is turning its attention to the future and wants the community to help shape it.   

The organisation will hold its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, 18 November at the WCS office in Cannonvale and is calling for local people to join the Management Committee.   

‍

Backed by more than three decades of supporting vulnerable members of the community, WCS is committed to continuing its meaningful work, empowering people and advocating for a region where everyone feels safe, respected and free from violence. What began as a single refuge opened in Cannonvale in 1990 by a group of local women is now the only free service funded to respond to domestic, family and sexual violence across almost 24,000 square kilometres, from Collinsville to Hamilton Island.   

‍

Chief Executive Officer Kirsty Gillett says the organisation is stepping into an exciting new chapter.   

“We’ve been part of this community for more than 35 years and we’re proud of what that has meant for the people we support. Now we’re building on those foundations so we can keep showing up for the people who need us,” says Kirsty.   

‍

That new chapter has been taking shape behind the scenes throughout the past year with staff from all three sites coming together to help build the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan around five clear pillars. Those priorities are investing in itspeople and strengthening the foundations as one united team, to be known and trusted across the region and reach more of the people who need it.  

‍

Alongside the Strategic Plan comes a new organisational structure and a refreshed brand, with a confident new look, centred on empowerment, advocacy and hope.  

“When someone reaches out on the hardest day of their life, they need to know exactly who we are and that they can trust us. That’s what this rebrand is about,” says Kirsty.   

‍

With a clear plan in place, WCS is now looking for fresh, committed Management Committee members. The organisation is looking for people who bring a diversity of knowledge to the table and a genuine social conscience.   

‍

WCS is particularly keen to hear from people with experience or expertise in governance and strategic leadership, data analysis and outcome measurement, finance or accounting, human resources, domestic and family violence advocacy, First Nations leadership, influence and perspectives, and government relations and influence at a local, state, or federal level.  

“Our committee plays a vital role in steering the organisation and we are looking for skilled individuals with a genuine care for this community,” says Kirsty.  

‍

Serving on the committee is a chance to help steer a respected organisation that supports some of the most vulnerable people in our region. The AGM is also an opportunity to reflect on the year’s achievements, receive the audited financial statements, and elect the Management Committee for the year ahead. All members and supporters are welcome to attend.   

‍

“Our community has always stood behind us, and now this is an invitation to stand with us as we write the next chapter together,” says Kirsty.  

‍

Anyone interested in nominating, or wanting a copy of the AGM agenda, is encouraged to contact WCS before the meeting.   

‍