Bendigo Region: Liz Thomas (CEHL Managing Director), Carol (Ithaca CERC), Anette (Eyrie CERC), Michael Havekotte (CEHL Manager ‑ Asset Services), Alyce Holmes (CEHL General Manager Co op Services), Sharon (Dragon City CERC), Tony De Domenico (CEHL Board Director), Robyn (Rainbow 8 CERC), Robert (Fountain CERC), Kim Rattray Wood (Co operative Development Coordinator), Keith (Young Achievers CERC)
This year, CEHL began a series of regional board meetings to strengthen relationships with co-op boards across Victoria. Attended by CEHL executive management, representatives of the CEHL Board and the regional Co-op Development Coordinators (CDC), these face-to-face meetings create opportunities for open conversations, regional updates, and agreeing on how CEHL and co-op boards can work together on shared goals — including property maintenance, exploring development opportunities, and increasing the supply of co-operative housing. With two of nine meetings now complete — Bendigo in February and Bairnsdale in March — the benefits of these local conversations are already becoming evident.
Continued on page 4 and 5 ...
Regional Board Meetings
Strengthen Co-op Connections in Bendigo and Bairnsdale
CCA Agreement: Strengthening how CEHL and Co-ops Work Together
A Piece of Lakewood in the CEHL Office
A Sustainable Shift: How Phoenix Co-op is FutureProofing Homes
Lakesdale Co-op: A Thriving and Resilient Community
Meet Your Co-op Elected Board Director
Understanding Complaints and Feedback
CEHL 2025 Study Grant Recipients
Linden Garden’s ‘Heavenly’ Carrot Cake
MANAGING
The 2025 International Year of Co-operatives (IYC) theme is “Co-operatives Build a Better World.”
It’s a powerful reminder highlighting how CEHL co-ops create a better world by delivering secure, affordable housing managed by co-op members in partnership with CEHL.
CEHL will host an International Year of Co-operatives (IYC) celebration in Bendigo this July, bringing together representatives from all CEHL co-ops, alongside invited guests. The event will celebrate coop housing, offer space to reflect and connect, and showcase the strength of the CEHL co-op housing model.
We are pleased to report that the first two regional board meetings have been held in Bendigo and Bairnsdale, sparking strong, honest conversations, creating advocacy opportunities with local leaders, and receiving great media coverage.
These face-to-face meetings bring together CEHL Board Directors, executive management, and regional co-op board directors to share updates, discuss local priorities, and explore ways to collaborate on shared goals— including property maintenance, increasing the co-op housing supply in the region, and navigating local challenges.
You can read more about the meetings on pages four and five and find the list of upcoming regional visits in the ‘What’s Happening’ section of this issue. The next regional board meeting will be held in Colac in May.
In this edition you’ll find an update on the review of the CEHL/Co-op Agreement (CCA), which aims to reflect the evolution of the co-op housing program, co-op communities, and the changing needs of co-op members. Regional in-person consultation sessions with co-op boards will begin in June to develop a renewed agreement that addresses today’s operating realities and supports the provision of secure, affordable co-op housing.
We are thrilled to share that several new housing developments have recently been completedsixteen new homes in Wilson Avenue Brunswick,
and five in Bundoora. These developments mark significant progress towards our goal of increasing the availability of secure, affordable housing. We are also excited to announce that additional developments are on the horizon in regional Victoria, with construction scheduled to begin mid-year on several new properties across Ballarat and Bendigo, delivering a mix of two and three-bedroom homes. If your co-op needs support to finalise its Co-op Housing Plan (CHP) and be eligible to apply for the allocation of the new properties, please reach out to your CDC.
We are encouraged by the growing local and international interest in co-op housing, both politically and within the community. Canada and the United Kingdom have recently announced significant investments in co-op housing, following the lead of many European countries. CEHL continues to advocate for the Victorian and Australian Governments to do the same.
Liz has written to all federal politicians, highlighting the impact of co-op housing, and inviting them to visit a CEHL co-op in their electorate (see the election flyer on page 3). We are deeply grateful to the coop members who have generously offered to work with CEHL to promote the increase of co-op housing supply to elected members and in the media. Your support is invaluable, and together, we are building something that truly makes a difference—not just for co-op members, but for the future of housing in Australia.
In co-operation,
Common Equity Housing Limited (CEHL) is Australia’s largest co-operative housing provider. With more than 2,100 homes across 60 Victorian local government areas (LGAs), we have been delivering secure, affordable, and community-led rental housing for over 40 years.
Co-op housing is a sustainable build-to-rent housing model designed for people on low to moderate incomes who are often priced out of the private market. It is a community-led solution to Australia’s housing crisis, empowering those living in the housing to play an active role in managing it. Co-op housing is: In Victoria, the average wait time for a co-op rental property is up to ten years. With 140 shovel-ready properties that could get underway if they could access dedicated funding, CEHL is ready to increase the supply of co-op housing across Victoria.
long-term leases for tenants
Affordable income-based rent set at 25% of income, up to market rent
tenants actively participate in the management of their housing
Independent research conducted by Western Sydney University in 2024 reveals that co-op housing enhances well-being, reduces dependency on services, and improves employment and educational outcomes for tenants.
• Build and manage affordable, long-term rental housing across Victoria. 40% of our co-ops are in regional Victoria
• Partner with over 90 co-ops to deliver a unique community-led housing model
• Prioritise people over profit by reinvesting profit into more housing
With increased funding, co-operative housing can deliver up to 10% of the community housing sector stock and be a game-changer for how we define and deliver affordable housing to Australians on low-to-moderate incomes.
To make that happen, registered housing co-operatives require a dedicated funding stream of $250 million per year for three years to build 500 co-op homes annually and create up to 25 new co-operatives across Australia.
We invite all Members of Parliament to visit a co-op community in their electorate. Meet the people whose lives have been transformed by secure, affordable, community-led housing — and see firsthand how this proven model is delivering real outcomes.
To arrange a visit or learn more, contact us at engage@cehl.com.au
Together, we can grow co-operative housing and build a fairer, more sustainable housing future for all Australians. YOUR INVITATION TO VISIT A CO-OP
In both the Bendigo and Bairnsdale regions, Co-op Board Directors welcomed the chance to engage directly with CEHL, sharing insights, successes, and challenges. Discussions focused on:
• Updates on the CCA Agreement Review
• CEHL’s current advocacy work
• Local housing needs and future development opportunities
• Navigating local council processes
• Celebrating co-op leadership during the International Year of Co-operatives (IYC25)
• Strengthening the partnership between CEHL and co-op boards
One board director summed it up perfectly:
“Everything about this meeting worked well—coming together and working towards such positive outcomes. Feeling supported in our roles as board members of our CERC was great. The conversation about working together to achieve our goals and sustain this amazing program was encouraging.” Sharon, Dragon City CERC.
These conversations are also helping local Co-op Development Coordinators (CDCs) tailor support to regional needs and build momentum around shared priorities.
The meetings also created strong advocacy opportunities. In Bendigo, the team met with the General Manager of Bendigo City Council and the Premier’s electoral office manager, while in Bairnsdale they connected with local MP Tim Bull. Media coverage included the Bendigo Advertiser and WIN News in Bendigo, and ABC Radio Gippsland and the Gippsland Times in Bairnsdale. Check out the recent media coverage on page 9.
These regional board meetings demonstrate CEHL’s commitment to working side-by-side with co-op boards. They provide a valuable platform to:
• Strengthen relationships and share updates
• Explore development and advocacy opportunities
• Highlight what makes each co-op unique, including its history and key milestones
• Gather and share local member input
CEHL looks forward to continuing meaningful conversations with co-ops across Victoria, with the following seven more regional board-to-board meetings planned for 2025 (see calendar below for dates and locations).
Effectively recording urgent and non-urgent repairs into Circuit Hosted by CDS
You can register by scanning the QR code or visiting: https://bit.ly/RepairsCircuit Monday, April 28 6pm – 7pm.
Keeping your home and community safe with Neighbourhood Watch Victoria
You can register by scanning the QR code or visiting: https://bit.ly/NeighbourhoodWatchCEHL
(Rutherglen)
The CEHL/Co-op Agreement (CCA) outlines the responsibilities, expectations, and partnership between CEHL and member co-operatives.
It is the foundation for how we work together to deliver secure, affordable, communityled housing across Victoria.
Over time, as CEHL’s housing program and the needs of co-ops have evolved, it is time for a comprehensive review. The goal is to develop a renewed agreement that reflects current regulatory requirements, supports clear and practical working relationships, and meets the needs of a growing and diverse co-op housing model.
A renewed agreement that will:
• Reflect current community housing sector standards and co-operative values
• Clarify roles, expectations, and improve communication
• Strengthen trust and shared understanding
• Support effective governance and day-to-day operations
• Align with our long-term strategic goals
• Remain fair, flexible, and future-ready
• Be grounded in the real experiences and aspirations of co-op members and directors
This review is a chance to shape a stronger, more effective approach to working together. It will:
• Clarify what co-ops need from the agreement today
• Identify shared priorities and challenges
• Strengthen relationships through open, transparent dialogue
• Co-create practical solutions that reflect real experiences
• Improve the clarity and usability of the agreement
• Support long-term sustainability of the co-op housing model
The CCA review will be supported by a phased consultation process throughout 2025.
The first phase starts in June with a series of ten regional, in-person consultation sessions, led by an independent engagement specialist, aimed at fostering honest, inclusive, and constructive dialogue.
All co-op directors have now been invited to attend one of these sessions.
By the beginning of May, each participating co-op will also receive a pre-meeting information pack outlining what to expect, how to prepare, and how to gather input from members in advance.
Co-op directors will represent their co-ops at the regional sessions. Members are encouraged to speak to their co-op boards, share their views, and offer feedback. Your input will help inform the feedback your co-op provides and ensure it reflects a broad range of member perspectives that reflect real co-op experiences and lead to a stronger, more relevant outcome.
Todd is the founder of i.e. community the engagement consultancy working with us on the CCA review. He has more than 20 years’ experience helping organisations and communities work through complex issues by bringing different views together.
As the project lead, Todd will guide a clear and open process. Co-op directors will have genuine opportunities to share their ideas, ask questions, and contribute to shaping the updated agreement through honest and practical conversations.
Todd’s approach is based on co-operative principles and values. He’s focused on building understanding and finding solutions that work for both CEHL and co-ops—and he’s looking forward to working with co-op directors throughout the project.
CEHL’s office has a bright new addition—a beautiful artwork by Kathryn from the Lakewood Arts Committee. Inspired by the warmth of the sun and the movement of nature, the piece features figures that appear to raise their arms in greeting. Kathryn describes the artwork as capturing a gesture, something that could be the centre of a flower or a being reaching toward the light.
Kathryn also spoke about the challenge of working with yellow, explaining that pairing it with violet makes the colour stand out. “Violet brings out anything,” she said. “It sort of says, don’t look at me, look at that.” This careful use of colour gives the piece a real sense of energy and depth.
CEHL was proud to support the Lakewood Arts Committee with a $500 grant. The group held an end-of-year exhibition at their Christmas celebration, showcasing a collection of work created throughout the year. Many pieces were sold, with 25% of the proceeds going back into the committee to help fund future projects. Next on their creative journey, is experimenting with mosaics.
Displaying Kathryn’s artwork in the CEHL office is a great way to celebrate the creativity of our co-ops. It brings a little piece of Lakewood to CEHL – a reminder of the talent and community spirit that co-op members contribute to every space we share.
Does your co-op have a community initiative, or are you interested in starting one?
Reach out to your CDC to find out how CEHL can support your co-op bring an idea to life.
Merri Co-op Director Kylie, CEHL Managing Director Liz Thomas and Professor Wendy Stone joined ABC Life Matters to discuss the growing movement for co-operative housing models across Australia.
Hear Kylie’s story about finding a home in her co-op, Wendy’s insights from housing policy research and Liz’s vision for a more affordable co-op housing future.
Follow this link to listen or scan the QR code: https://bit.ly/ LifeMattersCEHL
Dragon City CERC Maintenance Director Sharon Scott spoke candidly to WINNEWS in Bendigo about her remarkable journey from homelessness to not only a home, but a co-op community.
Sharon was living in a tent at the Bendigo Showgrounds when a vacancy came up at a local co-operative—a phone call she says saved her.
Now more than a decade later, Sharon has become a vital part of her co-op community as Maintenance Director.
Watch Sharon and Liz Thomas speak on this special report by following this link or scanning the QR code: https://bit.ly/WINNEWSGipplandCEHL
The Gippsland Times recently featured CEHL’s visit to Gippsland’s co-op housing community, highlighting how this unique model provides secure, affordable housing while giving residents a voice in how their housing is managed.
With 11 rental co-ops managing over 160 properties in the region, co-operative housing is proving to be a community-driven solution to Australia’s housing crisis. As CEHL Managing Director Liz Thomas shared in the article, co-ops empower tenants with greater stability and agency - filling the gap between private rental and homeownership.
With energy prices rising and climate extremes becoming more frequent, many co-ops are looking for ways to make their homes more comfortable, efficient and affordable. At Phoenix Co-op in Geelong, they’re already making it happen, led by Gabrielle, the co-op’s dedicated Sustainability Director.
Gabrielle had previously served as the co-op’s secretary and, in early 2024, assumed the new sustainability role. Always drawn to sustainable practices, Gabrielle wanted to create homes that were both comfortable and energy-efficient while keeping costs low.
She was inspired by a local initiative run by Geelong Sustainability called ‘Climate Safe Room,’ which focuses on maintaining a consistent temperature in one room throughout the year.
“We have older members and people with health issues who need their homes to be warm in winter and cool in summer,” Gabrielle says.
“I thought we could do something similar in our co-op.”
To get started, Gabrielle reached out to sustainability consultant Cal Forsyth, who assessed all the co-op properties to pinpoint
where heat was being lost in winter and where homes were overheating in summer. Draughty windows and door frames, combined with poor insulation, are the primary causes, resulting in many households paying more for heating or cooling throughout the year. The co-op agreed to fix these issues, and work began in 2024.
While some members were unsure if the upgrades would make a real difference, the results soon spoke for themselves.
“When we had really hot days, members with insulation said their homes felt much cooler,” Gabrielle says. “One person even said their house was quieter because outside noise was blocked.”
As the upgrades rolled out, more members shared their experiences.
“Before the insulation, my home would be freezing in the morning, and I’d have to keep the heater on for hours,” one resident said. “Now, it stays warm overnight.”
Another added, “In summer, I used to rely on my air conditioner all the time. But after the upgrades, I barely needed to turn it on.”
The improvements will also make a difference in winter, helping retain heat and reducing the need to use heaters - saving members money on energy bills.
With insulation and draught-proofing now complete, Phoenix Co-op is planning its next round of improvements, which will be outlined in a future list.
Phoenix is gradually replacing inefficient gas appliances, such as hot water systems, heaters, and cooking appliances, with more efficient electric ones. The city plans to install solar panels and add ceiling fans to help homes stay cooler in the summer.
“We can’t do everything at once, but we’re taking small steps and keeping members informed along the way,” Gabrielle says.
To help fund the solar installations, Gabrielle is looking into government rebates and grant opportunities. “There are a lot of grants available for sustainability projects, so we’re seeing what we can apply for.”
Gabrielle’s advice for other co-ops is simple: start small and focus on what’s practical and achievable.
“For many of our homes, that meant insulation and draught-proofing,” she says. “Even little changes, like sealing doors and windows, can make a big difference.”
It’s important to seek expert opinions – for example, draught-proofing may not be suitable for some homes if there are gas systems in place.
Many councils throughout Victoria have initiatives like Geelong Sustainability. If your co-op is interested, consider contacting your local council. Some upgrades, such as solar installations, require involvement and approval from CEHL. If you want to learn more, please contact your Co-op Development Coordinator.
Is your co-op taking steps to improve energy efficiency, cut costs, or create more comfortable homes? Share what you’re working on to engage@cehl.com.au and share your initiative across the co-op network.
Alyce Holmes General Manager Co-op Services
Rent assessments are on their way and the team are well into processing the Household Information Forms. We want to thank everyone for handing in their forms, and a special thank you to treasurers and secretaries for supporting us. Compared to previous years, more forms have been returned on time and the team at CEHL are very appreciative of everyone’s efforts.
We’d like to welcome our newest Co-op Development Coordinator for Geelong, Amanda Roe.
Amanda brings a wealth of experience to CEHL, including her own lived experience in co-op housing in South Australia, which gives her a unique understanding of the needs and priorities of co-ops like ours.
She has a strong foundation in education and academia, with experience as a skilled educator working with diverse communities.
Outside of work, Amanda is passionate about singing and performing with community-based choral groups, and she also enjoys organic gardening, where she finds both peace and creativity.
The Director Assistance Program (DAP) is a free, innovative counselling and support service available to all Co-op Directors.
Funded by CEHL, this program is designed to assist directors in their roles by providing guidance and support when needed.
Three, one hour sessions are available each year.
To access the service and receive the unique code, contact Mark Dowling, CEHL Housing Support Coordinator on 03 9208 0880 or email support@cehl.com.au
As we celebrate the International Year of Co-operatives under the theme “Co-ops Build a Better World”, it’s co-ops like Lakesdale that bring this vision to life. Following a recent visit to Bairnsdale to meet with the co-op board, Lakesdale’s members have shared their story—a story of leadership, participation, and co-operative resilience.
Located in East Gippsland and active since 1993, Lakesdale Co-op has become a cornerstone of co-operative housing in the region, managing 11 homes across Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance. But it’s not just the housing that sets Lakesdale apart—it’s how the co-op is governed: by members, for members.
One of Lakesdale’s greatest strengths is its members. Recognising the need for long-term sustainability, the co-op has successfully recruited suitable members for the succession of co-op directors while maintaining the wisdom and experience of its experienced members. This mix has created a vibrant and engaged community, ensuring that Lakesdale continues to thrive. Energy efficiency and sustainability are also key priorities. In 2023, the co-op secured Solar Victoria rebates to replace six heating and cooling systems, reducing energy costs for members. Additionally, five heat pump hot water systems have been installed, with plans to upgrade the remaining six when funding allows. These initiatives make homes more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Lakesdale is always looking for ways to strengthen its operations. From improving property management to exploring funding opportunities, the co-op remains proactive. Members work closely with CEHL and local organisations and authorities to ensure properties are well-maintained, and they advocate for grant funding to enhance home security and infrastructure.
Lakesdale Co-op is proud of what it’s achieved and is actively working through challenges to continue building a strong, resilient community.
• Managing Housing Demand: The co-op regularly receives enquiries about housing availability. Work is underway to improve its referral process to set clearer expectations for potential members.
• Navigating Local Government Policies: Recent changes in council policy have made it harder to obtain neighbour contact details for shared matters, such as fencing. The co-op is working with CEHL to find a practical solution.
• Expanding and Securing Funding: Lakesdale wants to grow to meet the needs of their co-ops. The co-op is looking for grants and funding opportunities, particularly for security upgrades and infrastructure improvements, and will continue to work with their co-op development coordinator for support on their submission.
Lakesdale Co-op remains focused on the future, supported by dedicated members and strong partnerships with CEHL and the local community. Together, they continue to deliver safe, affordable, community-led housing while building toward an even more sustainable future.
CEHL is unique because people who live in our co-op communities can have a seat at the board table.
Later this year, eligible co-op members will have the opportunity to nominate for election to the CEHL Board and play a key role in shaping the future of CEHL co-operative housing. Upcoming issues of Co-op Speaking will feature conversations with current Elected Board Directors, as well as a closer look at the work of the CEHL Board and the responsibilities of the elected director role.
The CEHL Board sets the strategic direction for our organisation and ensures decisions are made with care and accountability. That’s why having strong, informed voices on the board is so important. Recently, we spoke to Elected Director, Beth Rundle about her time on the board – what she’s learned along the way and what she’s valued most about the experience.
A few years ago, Beth thought her working life was winding down—until the chance to join the CEHL Board came along. Unsure whether she had the right skills, Beth hesitated at first, but the chance to give back to the co-op communities that had supported her over the years was too meaningful to pass up. Determined to contribute, Beth stepped forward.
“I used to think you had to be an expert to sit on a board. What I’ve learned is that lived experience, combined with a willingness to grow, is just as powerful.”
“Being on the board is about making big decisions that affect lots of people,” she says, “I wanted to make sure the board understood the real experiences of people living in co-op housing.”
Adjusting to the boardroom wasn’t easy. At first, Beth felt out of her depth. It felt like a different world,” she recalls. “There were so many reports, policies, and finance discussions I had to take my time to understand.”
But over time, Beth began to find her footingnot just by learning the technical language, but by growing more confident in what she had to offer.
“I learned that it’s okay to ask questions. No one expects you to know everything on day one,” she says.
For Beth, one of the biggest shifts was realising the value of speaking up.
“It’s not just about understanding; it’s about having a voice at the table,” she says, “I started asking, ‘How does this decision affect co-op members?’ That’s when I felt like I really belonged.”
A key part of Beth’s growth came through the CEHL Board Director Mentoring Program, which pairs CEHL Elected Directors with Independent Technical Board Directors—experienced professionals with governance and industry expertise. The program not only supports the development of elected directors like Beth but also gives technical directors the opportunity to deepen their understanding of co-operative housing and gain valuable insight into the lived experiences of co-op members.
“My mentor helped me understand how board meetings work, what to focus on, and how to speak up with confidence,” Beth says.
Having a mentor made all the difference. “When you have someone guiding you, it’s easier to learn and grow.” “They encouraged me to ask questions and reminded me that my lived experience was valuable.”
Beth strongly believes that having co-op members on the board strengthens CEHL. “A board needs people who understand what it’s like to live in co-op housing. That perspective is so important.”
Her time on the board has had a lasting impact – not just on CEHL, but for Beth personally “I’ve learned leadership skills, gained confidence, and made a real impact - it’s a big responsibility, but it’s also very rewarding.”
To other co-op members considering board nomination, Beth has this advice: “You already have valuable experience. If you live in a co-op, you understand community, teamwork, and problemsolving. Those are skills that boards need.”
“If you care about co-op housing, your voice matters. You don’t need to know everything - you just need to be willing to learn.”
At the 2025 AGM, there will be five Elected Board Director positions available. Beth hopes that members will come forward, bringing their lived experience and fresh perspectives to the board room.
“You don’t need to be an expert to start. If you care about your co-op and want to make a difference, you already have what it takes.”
If you are interested in becoming an Elected Board Member, start by speaking with your Co-op Directors and your CEHL Co-op Development Coordinator (CDC), and continue reading Co-operatively Speaking for more discussions on Elected Directors.
A co-op works best when it’s a welcoming, respectful and fair place for everyone. One way to support this is by listening to feedback and addressing complaints thoughtfully and constructively.
Complaints are not just problems to fix - they are opportunities to strengthen your co-op. They provide valuable insights into what’s working well and what needs improvement. When managed well, complaints can help build trust, enhance communication, and create a more transparent and inclusive co-op environment.
Co-ops are independent legal entities, responsible for addressing the concerns raised by their members. CEHL supports co-ops in many ways, but it has no authority to manage complaints about co-op operations, which need to be managed by the co-op.
FOR MEMBERS:
If you have a concern about your co-op or a co-op director, check your co-op’s rules and follow the dispute process. If you are unsure where to start, ask your co-op secretary or another director.
FOR DIRECTORS:
If you need to respond to complaints on behalf of your co-op, the following information offers practical tips to help you respond fairly and constructively.
A complaint is when someone expresses dissatisfaction and asks for a resolution. It usually includes:
• A specific issue – Something that needs to be addressed
• Action required – An expectation that the issue will be fixed
• Emotion – People may feel upset or angry when raising their complaint – however, as we’ll talk about more, it’s important both parties remain respectful
Feedback includes suggestions, compliments, or general comments. While it may not require immediate action, repeated feedback can highlight areas for improvement.
To get the most from complaints and feedback, consider how your co-op can:
• Make it easy for people to share their thoughts proactively rather than wait for a complaint.
• Respond efficiently, accurately and respectfully to complaints.
• Act on constructive feedback to demonstrate a genuine commitment to improvement.
• Use feedback to find patterns and recurring issues.
Complaints can sometimes be emotionally charged or hard to manage.
Your well-being matters and you should not tolerate abusive or disrespectful behaviour. Here are some tips for managing difficult situations and conversations:
• Stay calm and professional – Keep your tone neutral.
• Acknowledge the concern – Show you’re listening: “I understand this is important to you. Let’s find a way forward.”
• Set clear boundaries – If needed, say: “I want to help, but we need to keep this conversation respectful.”
• Try to de-escalate – Ask open-ended questions and focus on solutions.
• Offer alternatives – Suggest a break, a mediator, or another person to help if needed.
• Be clear and specific about your concern.
• Focus on the issue, not the person.
• Use respectful language to keep conversations constructive.
• Understand your co-op may need time to follow a fair process.
handling complaints
• End the conversation if necessary – If behaviour is inappropriate, pause and revisit later.
• Document the exchange – Note the date, time, and key details.
• Seek support – Talk to fellow directors or your CDC for advice.
• Look after yourself – CEHL offers free support sessions for directors through the Directors Assistance Program (DAP) find more info on page 12.
co-ops can grow stronger, more connected, and more supportive for everyone involved.
“Receiving this CEHL study grant eases financial stress, supports my education, and recognises my commitment to learning. I now believe in my ability to succeed and hope to inspire others to do the same. This grant empowers me to keep building skills, investing in research, and giving back to the community.”
Renee Van Ravenstein from Satellite CERC
Certificate III Childhood Education & Care
“CEHL has not only provided me with a stable home but now has also given me the financial freedom to study. I do not have the words to express my gratitude for every benefit CEHL has brought into my life, but I am genuinely grateful, and excited for the future!”
“Receiving this grant felt like a great weight has been lifted, lessening the financial burden for myself and my children so that I can continue to study what I love and not have to worry about making ends meet.”
Renee Pike from Dolphin CMC
Certificate IV Accounting and Bookkeeping
“The $2000 study grant will ease financial pressure and help cover essential expenses, including tuition. This means I can focus more on my education and less on financial strain. This generous support will play a crucial role in helping me achieve my educational and career goals—and for this, my little family and I are truly grateful.”
“I’m incredibly grateful to receive the CEHL study grant. It will ease the financial burden of study and improve my quality of life. With this support, I can upgrade technology, access essential resources, and focus more on learning. Importantly, it means I don’t have to choose between covering medical treatment for my chronic illness and funding my education—both vital to my wellbeing and success as a student.”
“I’m incredibly grateful to receive the CEHL study grant. It will ease the stress of being a full-time student, especially after recovering from a car accident last year. I’m excited to develop my clinical skills and support people with complex mental health challenges. The grant will help cover study materials, travel, and accommodation costs for hospital placements in Melbourne and Geelong. Thank you very much!”
Katherine Toman from Stockaders CERC
Certificate III Health Administration
“Thank you so much for awarding me the study grant! This will make a big difference, and I truly appreciate it.
With this support, I can focus more on my studies without stressing about finances. It’s a huge relief and great motivation to keep pushing toward my goals.”
Mellisa Surth from Goulburn Valley CERC
Certificate IV Real Estate Practice
“Thank you so much for the study grant!”
“I’m halfway through a Functional Nutrition course and plan to finish by the end of the year, which will qualify me for postgraduate study in microbiome. I’m so grateful to CEHL for the 2025 study grant—it’s a fantastic program that helps CERC members move toward more fulfilling work. The grant will support health-related purchases, like monitors and a better computer setup, and ease everyday expenses. I strongly encourage other CERC members to apply—it really can make a difference.”
Sent in by Katherine Rudolph, Lakewood – taken from The Age in 1997. Makes two loaf-tin-sized cakes.
Cake
• 800 grams carrots, roughly grated
• 500 grams Californian walnuts, roughly chopped
• 4 eggs
• 2 cups of raw sugar
• 1 ½ cups light olive oil or canola oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
• 1 teaspoon mixed spice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups of plain flour
• 2 teaspoons bicarbonate soda
Icing
• 2 cups sifted icing sugar
• 180 grams creamed cheese
• 58 grams butter
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Preheat oven to 180 – 190 degrees. Line two 24 by 12 centimetre loaf tins with glad bake.
Combine eggs, raw sugar, oil, vanilla and sifted dry ingredients in a large bowl. Stir in the carrots and walnuts, reserving a handful of chopped walnuts for decoration. The mixture should be of a medium consistency; not runny but not sticky.
Spoon batter into loaf tins and bake for one-and-a-quarter to one-andhalf hours, or until a skewer comes out of the cake dry.
Allow the cakes to cool in the oven for half an hour, then turn out of the tins into cake racks. Cover with a clean tea towel and allow it to cool completely.
When cool, put all the icing ingredients together in a blender or small bowl, mix well and spread over the top and down the sides of the cakes. If the icing is too thick, add a little more lemon juice. Sprinkle liberally with reserved chopped walnuts.
CEHL is committed to embracing diversity and eliminating discrimination. Our workplace and housing services are inclusive, and we welcome everyone irrespective of ethnicity, lifestyle choice, faith, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
We acknowledge and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Australia’s First People and Traditional Custodians of Country. CEHL will continue to advocate for a fairer, more inclusive society, and provide housing services that are welcoming, safe, and culturally appropriate
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