Springvale Community Aid and Advice Bureau’s chairperson Ross Hepburn, director Anne Hall and vice-chairperson Roz Blades.By Emma Sun
THE Springvale Community Aid and Advice Bureau (SCAAB) celebrated its 40th anniversary during its AGM last Tuesday.
About 100 people turned up to the birthday celebrations and heard the tributes that came from across Parliament, local government and from past and present staff members.
SCAAB is a not-for-profit organisation that provides a range of services, including support for refugees and newly arrived migrants, employment, child support, counselling, emergency relief, financial counselling and youth specific services.
Chairperson Ross Hepburn said that even after 40 years, the demand for SCAAB’s services is still growing.
“SCAAB has been a safe haven and meeting place for 40 years and we continue to battle for funds to assist the community,” he said.
SCAAB’s director Anne Hall said the organisation has been the voice of the community, and saluted everyone who had been part of it during the passing years.
“I want to thank all of the staff and volunteers for their ongoing commitment to making SCAAB a great place to work while continuing to offer high quality service.”
Jinny McGrath, who had worked with SCAAB for more than 20 years, received a life membership for her dedicated work to the organisation and was thrilled at the surprise announcement.
“I didn’t expect this at all, thank you and I greatly appreciate the acknowledgement,” she said.
“SCAAB was and still is a passion for me.”
The office bearers for 2011-12 are Ross Hepburn as chairperson, Roz Blades as vice-chairperson, Deborah Remfry as vice-chairperson, Chris James as treasurer and Dennis Wollersheim as secretary.
