Pro Patria Centre AGM
The Pro Patria Centre (PPC) held its Annual General Meeting on 18 November 2024, showcasing a year of remarkable progress and commitment to its mission of supporting veterans and the community. The meeting celebrated the Centre's achievements in wellbeing initiatives, infrastructure development, and enhanced collaborations.
Key Developments:
Veterans Wellbeing Grant & Defence Shed: The Veterans Wellbeing Grant played a pivotal role in the relocation of the Defence Shed Wagga Wagga to the PPC grounds.Initial funding challenges were overcome through an extensive fundraising campaign and strategic financial solutions. Special thanks go to the Pro Patria Property Trust for their constant and heroic efforts in making this possible.
Infrastructure Advancements:
All Saints Wing: Progress continues towards completion.
Prefabulous Buildings: Set to officially open on December 6th, these buildings are nearing completion thanks to the dedication of workers who volunteered their time to minimise costs.
Kitchen Renovation: The renovated kitchen is operational, with ongoing support sought for additional equipment.
Solar panels have been installed to enhance energy efficiency.
Community and Volunteer Efforts: Establishing volunteer sub-committees has led to successful projects like the repainting of the All Saints Wing, reflecting the community's spirit and dedication. The Kitchen Garden to plate goes from strength to strength.
Collaborations and Research: The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Charles Sturt University marks a significant step toward access to higher education, research and innovation to improve the lives of our veterans and first responders.
Royal Commission Influence: PPC's contributions to the Royal Commission into Veteran and Defence Suicide have been acknowledged and we continue to reflect on ways to incorporate the recommendations.
Board and Leadership Changes: The PPC Board extends heartfelt thanks to Jane Barnes for her invaluable service to the Board, sharing her wisdom and guidance. We know she will remain a Friend of PPC. We also welcome Aaron Haining as a new Board member.
Board Chair Lyle Salmon expressed profound gratitude to the Pro Patria Property Trust and the entire Pro Patria Centre team, including Board members and volunteers, for their unwavering commitment and extraordinary efforts throughout the year.
Future Outlook: The Pro Patria Centre remains steadfast in its mission to enhance support for veterans, first responders and the community, with promising developments and collaborations on the horizon.
