Strive Community Services Annual Report 2022-2023

2022-23

Annual Report

Prepared by

The Executive team

Table Of Content 3

Message from the Chairman

4

Message from the CEO

6

Our Board Members

8

Organsiational Chart

10 Meet Our Team 13 Vision And Purpose 14 Daniel’s Story 16 Reflections on the past year 22 Strategic Plan 23 Risk, Quality and Compliance 24 Key Financials 26 The Road Ahead

Message from the Chairman It is with mixed emotions that I announce that this will be my last Chair’s message. After 14 years of being on the board of Strive (with many of those years acting as Chair) I have decided to step down.

I have witnessed many changes in those years with Strive, the most significant being: The introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Navigating our way through COVID-19 Strive taking over the operations of Landsdale Farm from the Department of Education (December 2018) The introduction of Supported Independent Living Accommodation (SIL) houses ( currently Strive have 9 SIL houses ) The introduction of Respite accommodation at Landsdale Farm ( 3 cabins) The change of name from Family Support WA to Strive Community Services Inc During my time at Strive, I have seen the organisation’s revenue grow from $2M to $10M. In November 2022 Andre Shannon resigned as Chief Executive Officer of Strive after 15 years. I would like to thank Andre for his dedicated service to strive and wish him all the best for the future.

I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome Nick Hopkin to Strive. Nick was appointed CEO following Andre’s departure. Over the years I have had the privilege of working alongside a number of dedicated board members. I would like to thank them for their support and commitment to Strive.

I have also been able to meet with a number of our clients. I am still amazed by their warmth and inspiration. It really is contagious.

I would also like to thank our loyal and dedicated staff and volunteers. Without you, Strive would not be the great organisation it is today.

I would like to wish you all the very best for the future.

Yours Sincerely Brain O’keefe

Brian O’Keefe

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Message from the CEO ‘The best way to manage change is to create it yourself’ This was the story in 2023 for Strive. A summary of significant events is shown below :

People

After 15 years being CEO at Strive, Andre Shannon resigned in November 2022. Prior to this he was a board member of Strive for 6 years. I would like to thank Andre on behalf of all the staff and clients at Strive for all his great work making Strive what it is today. I joined Strive in July 2022 as CFO and was subsequently appointed acting CEO in November 2022 following Andre’s resignation. In February 2023 I was formally appointed as CEO. As a result of an increased focus on quality standards within the NDIS, Strive created a new role – Quality , Risk and Compliance Manager in the year. This was filled in April 2023 by Paul Fettis ( see organisation chart ).

Following the preparation of a new Vision, Purpose and Values for Strive, a new role – Community Engagement Manager was created in order for us to work towards our long-term vision. This was filled internally by Gemma Campbell (see organisational chart )

Vision, Purpose and Values

The Executive Leadership felt that the time was right to revisit the Vision, Purpose and Values for Strive as a consequence of changes to the composition of the team. These were developed in May 2023 and are shown below

Development of Strategic Plan

Following the development of the new Vision, Purpose and Values, Strive prepared a new strategic plan for the year ahead pg 20

Sale of Strive Offices

Strive sold their offices in Wanneroo and relocated to Landsdale Farm in December 2022. There were a few teething problems (no air-conditioning for a week) in the middle of December.

However, I am pleased to say that the staff settled in well, and the move has helped develop relationships with the farm and Strive staff.

Farm Respite Cabins

During the year, Strive refurbished three cabins at Landsdale farm to offer respite accommodation. They also appointed a dedicated respite coordinator to help fill the cabins. I am pleased to say that they have succeeded greatly and are in high demand. The idyllic setting of the cabins within the farm is unique within the Perth metro area. Feedback from clients has been very encouraging.

4

Landsdale Farm

A new events calendar was developed for the farm, with monthly special events being held.

The first event organised was ‘International Mud Day’ on Saturday 24th June. All who attended had a great time.

A calendar of events for the farm is shown on pg 19 A decision was also made to open the farm on public holidays (except Christmas and New Year’s Day). This proved to be very popular with families.

The success of Sklubb (Youth Club) at Landsdale Farm

Another exciting development in 2023 was relocating our all-inclusive youth group (Sklubb) to Landsdale Farm. This has included the refurbishment of a dedicated hub for clients to use, including a pool table, tabletop footy, gaming activities and kitchen. Whilst set in the beautiful surroundings of the farm, clients are also able to enjoy a toasted marshmallow from the outdoor bonfire.

‘The role of a CEO is to create a legacy.’

There is a saying in Footy ‘you are only as good as your next game’. While the year ending 2023 was very busy and productive for Strive (resulting in a profit for the year of $300k), we have learned that you cannot take anything for granted. At the time of writing this report, we are already five months into executing our strategic plan for 2024. This year is significant for Strive as we look to establish strong foundations for long-term sustainability.

I could not have done this without the support of the staff and volunteers of Strive and Landsdale Farm and especially my Executive Leadership Team, who continue to go above and beyond.

I would also like to thank the board members of Strive for their ongoing commitment, and I would also like to personally thank our chairperson Brian O’Keefe who will be stepping down from the board of Strive after 14 years.

To round off my report, I am expressing my sincere gratitude to all of our clients who have allowed us to be part of their life journey. It is a huge honour and privilege for us to be alongside you.

Yours Sincerely Nick Hopkin

Nick Hopkin

5

Our Board

BRIAN O"KEEFE MBA GAICD CHAIRMAN Brian is a Management Consultant, having held senior executive positions with a number of major utilities, including Telstra and Western Power. Brian has extensive experience in corporate management, corporate governance and human resources.

CRYSTAL MURPHY

DALLAS EVANS Dallas is the parent of a young man with a disability. Dallas and her family live in the Wheatbelt, where Dallas has worked on the family farm and as a nurse. Dallas brings a unique perspective as a rural consumer of disability services.

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Crystal is an experienced non-executive director and executive with a diverse background.

She has held executive positions in various industries and started her career in HR and employee relations.

Crystal now focuses on strategy development, corporate governance, and financial practices. She is committed to making a positive impact by offering probono work and serving as a non-executive director for nonprofit organisations.

Members

JENNY WHITE Jenny is a teacher and TAFE senior lecturer with North Metropolitan TAFE and has extensive experience in the training sector, including delivering specialised training programs to people with disability. Jenny is carer for her adult grandson who has Autism Spectrum Disorder, and is passionate about creating lifelong learning opportunities for all.

SALLY HUTCHINSON Sally is a Senior Manager at BRI Ferrier WA, a qualified Chartered Accountant and a member of the Australian Restructuring Insolvency & Turnaround Association.

Sally has extensive experience in the corporate recovery and restructuring sector across a wide range of industries.

BEN MCEVOY

An experienced senior executive and board director with more than 20 years in leadership roles, Ben couples a passion for innovation and a deep understanding of technology with extensive experience in organisational leadership, financial management, growth strategy, governance and risk. .

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Tracy Bennett Human Resources Manager

Shelley Gunn General Manager Finance

Nick Chief Exec

Gemma Campbell Community Engagement Manager

8

Tabitha Taumoepenu Services Manager North

Hopkin utive Officer Emily Croy Services Manager South

Paul Fettis Quality, Risk and Compliance Manager

9

Meet Our Team NICK HOPKIN

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Nick is a passionate and innovative executive who has undertaken successful roles as Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer.

He is a big 4 audit-trained accountant who has worked in many different industries ranging from Manufacturing to Aged Care, within the UK and Australia.

Before commencing with Strive in July 2022, Nick worked as a consultant primarily to the Aged Care Sector in WA for over 5 years.

Prior to this, he was the Chief Financial Officer of the St Ives Group, one of the largest for-profit aged Care Providers in WA, for over 7 years.

He is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Certified Accountants and holds a BA(Hons) in Business Studies. He has been the treasurer of the Mental Illness Fellowship of WA (an NFP mental health organisation based in Perth) for over 9 years and was instrumental in developing their strategic plan to tackle the introduction of NDIS. He is married with 2 daughters, 2 grandsons and has a chocolate Labrador called Gem. His interests include watching Wales lose at rugby, walking Gem and going to the beach. One day he intends to write a book.

PAUL FETTIS

RISK QUALITY AND COMPLIANCE MANAGER Paul joined Strive in 2023 as the Quality, Risk and Compliance Manager. Paul is a qualified Critical Care Paramedic who has worked in many countries across the globe. After almost 2 decades in emergency medicine, Paul expanded his scope into the governance, quality, and compliance space within the clinical and disability sector where he has worked as an executive. Paul holds a Registered Paramedic qualification with numerous specialist certifications, Master’s Degree in Business, Undergraduate Degree in Leadership and a Cert IV in OHS. Paul is a member of 2 not for profit boards. He is a proud father of 2 children and is enjoying the finer things in life, such as family time, the beach and camping.

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GEMMA CAMPBELL

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MANAGER Over the past 25 years, Gemma has worn many hats in the disability sector, but currently, proudly serves as the Community Engagement Manager at Strive. If you've ever had a conversation with Gemma, you'll know that she has a knack for engaging in multiple discussions at once. Gemma says it can be quite the challenge for most, but fear not, those who know her well have become experts at keeping up with her rapid-fire conversations.

In addition to her work, Gemma has two incredible young boys who constantly keep her on her toes. You'll often see her running around, as she doesn’t believe in moving slowly. So, if you happen to spot Gemma zipping by, rest assured, there's no need to panic. It's just her whirlwind nature in action, always seeking the next adventure or opportunity to make a positive impact.

SHELLEY GUNN

GENERAL MANAGER FINANCE Shelley comes to Strive Community Services with nearly 20 years of experience across all aspects of financial and business management gained through her roles as Global GRCS Finance and Operations Manager at KPMG; Finance Business Partner at Edith Cowan University and Project Accountant at Worley Parsons. Shelley holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) specialising in Finance, and Postgraduate Certificates in Finance and Banking.

Shelley is adaptive, future-focused and driven with a passion to lead the way with emerging technologies and people-centric values. Her strengths are in field of financial sustainability, stakeholder management, financial and business analysis and modelling to provide valuable insights to improve decision-making. In her spare time Shelley enjoys time with her family and friends, the beach and outdoors, and trying new restaurants.

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Meet Our Team Con’t EMILY CROY

SERVICE MANAGER- SOUTH

With a rich experience of 16 years in the disability sector, Em has held various roles such as a Support Worker, Camps Coordinator, and currently, as the Senior Manager responsible for the south region. Her journey has equipped her with many valuable skills and successfully expanded Strive to cater to participants from the southern region. On a personal level, Em takes immense pride in being a mother to three sports-loving young boys. Balancing the demands of both work and home can be challenging, but she always gives it her all. While Emily may appear reserved initially, you'll discover the real her once you get to know her. Just give Emily a little time and patience, and you'll see her true colours shine through.

TABITHA TAEMOUPENU SERVICE MANAGER- NORTH

Meet Tabitha, with a background in early childhood education and a role within a Specialist Children’s services division. She went on to dedicate 16 years of her career to various roles in the disability services industry. She brings a wealth of experience to her current role as a Manager of Disability Services in the Northern region. Aside from her professional life, Tabitha is a dedicated mother of four, which has undoubtedly shaped her perspective and strengthened her empathy towards the individuals within our services. Tabitha is known for her hard working, passionate nature but always brings the sense of fun and playfulness.

TRACY BENNETT

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER Tracy is an experienced HR professional with over 15 years in the notfor-profit sector, specialising in health and education. She gained valuable insights during a union tenure and now works at Strive, supporting the organisation's mission. Outside of work, she embraces holistic self-care through yoga and Pilates. Tracy enjoys simple pleasures, like red wine and time with loved ones, making her a wellrounded, compassionate professional.

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Vision and Values

Vision The number one brand for connecting communities in Australia

Purpose Connections with the community through fun, happiness and belonging.

Values Passionate and determined Take 100% responsibility for your decisions.

Build open and honest relationships.

Create fun by being adventurous, curious and yourself.

Humble, respectful and kind to others Pursue growth and learning.

Have Balance / Perspective 13

Daniel’s Story Our family have been involved with Strive (previously known as Family Support WA) for approximately 22 years.

Daniel first started attending the school camps during the holidays, as we are from the country, it was beneficial for him to be around other people enjoying himself as he was not included/ invited in the local community/ school activities.

He lived at home with his mum (his Dad worked away ) till he was 20; when he first moved to Perth, he was living in a very toxic environment with another service provider, and after 5 years, we were told to take him elsewhere (I was too proactive and they didn't like that) I contacted the then CEO (FSWA), and as we discussed Supported Independent Living at previous Board Meetings, it was fast-tracked, and my son was the first client to move into a house.

I joined the Board in 2005 as I wanted to give something back (from a parent's point of view) to the organization that has done so much for my son. ( and his Mum and Dad) After being with Strive, our son now has stability, and a purpose in life, is in a safe environment, and is surrounded by people who genuinely care about him as a person and his needs and wants are met.

Our son is happy and safe living in Perth with Strive, and as we live so far away, I am a very happy Mother!!

Written by Dallas Evans (mother and Board Member)

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Reflections on the past year INTRODUCTION OF FARM STAY RESPITE

To help address Strive's financial challenges, a strategic decision was made to introduce a farm stay respite program at Landsdale Farm, an establishment operated by Strive. This initiative allows individuals to temporarily break free from their daily routines and immerse themselves in the beauty of the farm's surroundings.

Participants in this program have stayed anywhere from one night to three months, and the impact has been undeniably positive. Feedback from those who have experienced the farm stay respite has consistently highlighted the tranquil setting, the exceptional service provided by the attentive staff, and the profound connection with nature and the animals.

The benefits of this respite offering have extended to participants on various levels. Notably, it has provided a private and peaceful environment for individuals to interact with the animals alongside their support workers.

Since the program's inception until June 30 2023, it served 29 people. This number continues to grow into 2023/24, making it a valuable addition to Strive's offerings.

416 Nights respite provided

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Accommodation "Bound by Friendship: A Remarkable Journey of Three Gentlemen" At Landsdale Farm, a heartening tale of success unfolded when three exceptional individuals— Andrew, Pete, and Michael—discovered an ideal living situation that profoundly altered the course of their lives. Andrew, seeking solace after his hospital discharge, initially found refuge at Landsdale Farm while searching for suitable housing. Pete, a familiar face at Strive, expressed dissatisfaction with his current living arrangements.

The connection between Michael and Pete blossomed during casual morning tea catch-ups, leading to discussions about the possibility of establishing a shared living arrangement.

Recognizing the potential synergy, the notion of Strive assisting them in securing a suitable home gained traction. Andrew, Pete, and Michael convened at the farm, and the unmistakable bond that formed among these gentlemen was characterised by shared interests and a connection that effortlessly fell into place.

Through numerous meetings, it became evident that these three gentlemen shared a unique connection and much in common. As a result, they decided to share a home. Since moving in together, their relationships have continued to thrive.

Andrew's mobility has improved, and they often collaborate on gardening activities. Pete even started his own gardening business, volunteering at Landsdale Farm weekly. Michael has become an integral part of the community, contributing his cooking skills to the farm's events.

This story highlights how the support and commitment of their coordinator and managers, combined with open thinking, led to a remarkable living situation. It demonstrates the potential for life-changing connections and positive transformations in the right environment. This successful match is a testament to the power of friendship and support.

They genuinely care for one another and have each others wellbeing at the forefront of their mind.

9 SIL Sites as at 30 June 2023

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Community Connections Jeannie and her husband Andrew, who is also a Strive client, love watching movies together. One of their all-time favourite movies is Ballroom Dancing.

Upon learning this, the coordinator presented them with the idea of learning ballroom dancing together. Both Andrew and Jeannie were extremely excited to try it, and haven’t looked back since!

In May 2022, they began their ballroom dancing journey with Ballroom Fit and Special Olympics.

For 6 months they attended a weekly group class for individuals of all abilities. This class provided a friendly, encouraging environment to learn different dance styles and Jeannie took to it like a natural. It truly was the highlight of her week.

Jeannie’s passion and commitment to dancing increased, and in 2023 she began private lessons with her eyes set on competing in a competition. After 6 months of commitment and perseverance, Jeannie attended her first Awards Night on the 14th of July. Her dance of choice was the Slow Rumba, to Ed Sheeran’s song Perfect.

Jeannie danced beautifully with her instructor.

In spite of her nerves, she remained calm, noted by the judge as ‘neatly danced, with a nice relaxed feeling’. Jeannie was awarded honours in the Blue Lake Award.

It was a fantastic evening.

Jeannie’s family came to support her. Everyone shared in a potluck meal, followed by some fun group dances enjoyed by all. Jeannie is currently preparing to compete in the Special Olympics State Games in September. Congratulations Jeannie on your tremendous success! We are so proud of you!

48,638

Individual support hours provided 18

Social skills groups

5219

Group Service hours provided

EXPANDING THE REACH OF OUR COOKING GROUP: SOUTH OF THE RIVER Our cooking group embarked on an exciting journey, expanding its reach from the North of the River to the South. We began at our Rockingham office and have now secured a lovely local venue.

But this group isn't just about cooking but forging connections and creating lasting memories.

Amidst the cooking, there's laughter and storytelling. Then comes the highlight - a shared meal where we come together, enjoy our delicious creations, and strengthen our bonds. It's more than just cooking; it's about the joy of connecting and building lasting relationships and skills.

REFLECTING ON A YEAR OF AMAZING ADVENTURES WITH 'CONNECT' This past year, our 'Connect' social group for individuals with disabilities has been a whirlwind of incredible experiences. With the support of our dedicated staff at a 1:3 ratio, we embarked on weekly outings that took us to some of the most exciting places. From the serene landscapes of Whiteman Park to the artistic wonders at Sculptures by the Sea, we explored museums, enjoyed days at Hillarys, celebrated birthdays with enthusiasm, dived into art classes and pottery sessions, and shared the joy of Christmas events. The past year has been filled with memorable moments and amazing adventures, and we can't wait to create more in the coming year.

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Landsdale Farm GREAT INITIATIVES AT THE FARM

The events committee was established, and the first event, which was Mud day was held in June 2023. Events at the farm will be a focus point for 2023/24. We have a vision of creating a warm, friendly, educational environmental with a host of events to engage the community.

2,999

Students & teachers on school visits

6.9k

Facebook Followers

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34,685

11,119

Visitors

coffees sold

3.2k

Instagram Followers

Key Result Areas with Strategic Objectives Long Term Sustainability

Go for Growth

Building a long term financially sustainable business model for Strive

Achieving growth in our chosen markets

People and Culture

Building and developing our people and strengthening our Culture

Risk and Quality

Improving the way in which we manage and control our business including our risk management and other supporting capabilities

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Secure long term lease at Farm

Connect with Community

Locate Strive offices at Landsdale Farm for Long term

Improve brand awareness

Secure pipeline for SIL accommodation

Set up better reporting to monitor business performance

Increase number of respite cabins available at Farm

Improve occupancy of existing Respite cabins

Grow revenue in Farm

Improve number of SIL houses

Right people on the bus, in the right seats

Stabilise and retain our workforce

Improve communication and connection to our workforce

Better training (target proficiency not a qualification)

Embed Safety Culture for both staff and consumers

Compliments, Complaints and feedback

Reliable IT Infrastructure

Create an effective governance framework

Build a consumer engagement framework

NDIS Compliance

Cohesive and aligned workforce

Risk Quality and Compliance Paul Fettis joined the team in April 2023 and was appointed Risk, quality and compliance Manager.

13

Continuous Improvements underway

2

Workers Compensation claims (4 in 2021/22)

13

Feedback and Complaints Recieved

NDIS Quality Audit commenced

Incidents reported

1

157

(157 resolved)

Complimen ts received

8

(100% of feedback and complaints resolved)

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Key Finan $10.20M

$9.90M

What we earned

What we spent

$M

$M

NDIS Revenue

9.20

Employee Expenses

8.10

Landsdale farm and Red Barn Cafe

0.90

Depreciation

0.20

Other Income

0.10

Service Expenses

0.70

Total

10.20

Administration Expenses

0.70

Other Expenses

0.20

Total

9.90

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ncials $2.10M

$1.60M

What we own

What we owe

$M

$M

Cash and Cash Equivalents

1.00

Trade Payables

0.50

Receivables and Prepayments

0.40

Employee Benefits

0.60

Property, Plant and Equipment

0.30

Lease Liabilities

0.50

Right of Use Assets

0.40

Total

1.60

Total

2.10

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The Road Ahead CARETAKERS CABIN RENOVATION Gemma initiated the Caretaker's Cabin Renovation Project, responding to a Facebook post and gaining the support of the Diamond Edge property development education group. This group is dedicated to providing pro-bono assistance to vulnerable communities, and the cabin renovation will be their first community project. They chose to help refurbish our caretaker's cottage, intended to serve as a respite facility or transitional home for SIL participants. The cabin has suffered severe termite damage and has been vacant for many years. Strive received a quote of $70K to repair the termite damage.

CARETAKERS CABIN RENOVATIONS

The project team has held multiple meetings to plan the cabin's renovation, considering the specific needs of the individuals it will cater to. Their primary focus is making the cabin wheelchair accessible and suitable for individuals with behaviours of concern.

The team's mentor is Melissa Fisher from Melbourne, who has travelled to WA to visit the property and get acquainted with the project. A dedicated media team are part of Dimond Edge. They have stayed to capture photos and footage of the farm's interactions and conduct interviews with clients to promote the cabins and services. One of the main challenges is obtaining donated trades and materials. The media team is currently working on a project video to raise awareness and appeal for donations.

The Caretaker's Cabin Renovation Project is a collaborative effort involving the Diamond Edge group, Strive, and the local community, all coming together to transform the damaged cabin into a muchneeded respite facility.

Find out more here: https://diamondedge.online/

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DEVELOPMENT OF CONSUMER PARTNERSHIP FRAMEWORK New Chapter of Collaboration: In response to the ever-evolving landscape of consumer expectations, our focus for the next fiscal year centres around the implementation of our Consumer Partnership Framework. This framework is designed to foster collaboration with our clients, emphasizing inclusivity, transparency, and clientcentric decision-making.

Establishment of a Consumer Advisory Group: Central to our strategy is the establishment of a dedicated Consumer Advisory Group. Comprising representatives from diverse backgrounds, including individuals with disabilities, their devoted carers, and key stakeholders, this group will serve as the voice of our clients within our organisation.

Why This Focus Matters: 1. Inclusivity and Representation: A diverse advisory group ensures that our decision-making processes consider the varied needs and perspectives of our client base.

2. Client-Centric Excellence: Placing clients at the core of decision-making guarantees that our services are tailored to meet their evolving needs and preferences.

3. Continuous Quality Improvement: Direct client input is instrumental in identifying areas for improvement, contributing to the ongoing enhancement of service quality.

4. Transparent Communication: Establishing a dialogue platform through the advisory group promotes open communication, keeping us informed about changing client dynamics.

Building Trust Through Engagement: Our commitment to involving clients in shaping our services is not only rooted in a dedication to excellence but also in building trust and credibility. We understand that trust is earned through transparency, active engagement, and a genuine commitment to understanding and addressing client needs.

INTRODUCTION OF STAFF INTRANET In the upcoming year we will introduce a staff intranet. This centralised platform streamlines information exchange, providing easy access to company updates, announcements, and resources.

The intranet reflects our commitment to transparency and efficiency, creating a digital hub that empowers our workforce to collaborate seamlessly and drive collective success.

ESTABLISH PARTNERSHIPS WITH RTO’S AND SCHOOLS We are on the brink of exciting collaborations with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and neighbouring schools, to enhance educational opportunities at Landsdale Farm. By teaming up with RTOs, we anticipate offering specialised vocational training that directly aligns with industry needs.

Our partnership with neighbouring schools promises a diverse range of resources and teaching approaches to enrich the educational experience at Landsdale Farm. We eagerly anticipate the mutual benefits and opportunities that these partnerships will bring to our educational landscape.

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9206 3400 Info@strive.org.au www.strive.org.au

Strive Community Services Inc