Fresh from Melbourne and with years of experience in the welfare sector, Pat joined what was then known as Deniliquin Council for Social Development, in an administrative role.
At the time, the organisation was small, employing about 40 people, locally focused and operating on a modest budget of around $250,000. But what it lacked in size, it made up for in purpose.
“Our strength has always been staying consistent and dedicated to our original purpose and values,” she said.
“Strong, connected communities, and values of leadership, partnerships and social justice — that has never changed.”
Three decades on, Pat is retiring from the Intereach board, her influence felt in communities across southern NSW and northern Victoria.
“It’s been an incredible 30 years. Intereach has allowed me to grow, to serve, and to witness the incredible resilience and generosity of people across our region,” she said.
“I feel so grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and proud in the difference we’ve made to our communities.”
Over those 30 years, Pat has seen, and helped guide, Intereach’s transformation from a local service into a respected regional leader in community support.
Among the most significant milestones she reflects on are the expansion beyond Deniliquin into the Riverina/Murray in 2001, the partnership with the then Deniliquin Council to establish the Neighbourhood Centre, and the transition from separate program-based operations into a unified organisation.
Other defining chapters include Intereach’s partnership with government to expand disability services through the National Disability Insurance Agency and sustaining strong relationships with indigenous communities across our footprint.
Pat’s contribution to the board has been shaped by a lifetime of public service and governance.
During her tenure, she also served as board chair, helping guide the organisation through key periods of growth and change.
She also served as a councillor, mayor and deputy mayor during a decades long tenure with both Deniliquin Coucnil and Edward River Council, and held several senior leadership roles, including Southern NSW regional manager for Vinnies Services.
With graduate and postgraduate qualifications in Social Sciences and Management, Pat’s experience spans all levels of government.
With more than 21 years in local government, eight years on the NSW Community Services Advisory Council, and five years contributing to a Prime Minister’s Taskforce on homelessness, Pat gained a deep understanding of policy, advocacy, cultural diversity and the realities facing regional communities.
But her perspective is also profoundly personal.
As a carer for her son Ged, who had early onset dementia, she brought lived experience to the board table - understanding the challenges families face and the importance of responsive, compassionate services.
“Intereach has given me so much - opportunities to grow personally, to serve communities I’ve come to love, and to better understand the complexities of human life,” she said.
“It’s also taught me the realities and responsibilities that come with governance and the privilege of contributing to something bigger than yourself.”
Pat’s achievements go beyond Intereach.
In 2007, she was awarded the NSW Premier’s Community Services Award, and in 2016 she was a finalist in the NSW Local Government ‘Woman of the Year’ Award.
Yet one of her proudest moments is simply seeing the organisation grow alongside leaders who shaped it in its early years, including founding CEO Sylvia Baker and long-serving CEO and board member Bobby Murphy.
“After years of significant growth, I believe the board and Intereach are now well positioned for the next chapter.
“This includes expanding centre-based childcare across our regions and exploring new training and staff development partnerships.”
As she steps away from the board, Pat has a message to those who will carry Intereach forward.
“Keep your passion, focus and commitment to our people-centred work, and never forget the role we play in supporting rural communities,” she said.
Looking ahead, Pat hopes to “develop a me focus” which includes lots of travel and improving her newfound love of golf.
While her retirement marks the end of an era for Intereach, Pat’s influence will continue to shape the organisation well into the future.
“My hope is that Intereach always stays true to its values and principles, honouring the work of those who have gone before,” she said.
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