Meet Julie
Julie’s background is in executive administrative support, event and project management, working with Southern Cross University and The International Centre of Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality Education.
When she retired in 2023, she found herself looking for something to give back to.
“I was inspired by an article I read about the Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRCF) in a Bangalow Newspaper. I came home, looked up their website and rang them the next day to see if they would be interested in me volunteering a day a week in the office. Naturally they said ‘yes please’ and that’s where it all started. The team are just awesome. Working with them during that time gave me an opportunity to see how much amazing work NRCF is doing in the Northern Rivers.”
Julie was particularly inspired by the ethos of the Women’s Giving Circle. She has now been part of the Circle since 2023 and really enjoys connecting with women of all ages and all walks of life, that collectively give to support women and girls experiencing hardship across the Northern Rivers.
Meet Yvarna
Yvarna’s background is in administration within the Real Estate and Finance sectors. In 2024 Yvarna, her partner, and two-year-old daughter moved back to the Northern Rivers from the Sunshine Coast where she had been living for several years.
“When Mum told me about the Women’s Giving Circle, I knew I wanted to be involved straight away and joined at the Grant Giving Night in 2024. I remember my Nonna always supported local charities in Sydney, and my Mum has always done the same. I too wish to continue the legacy of family giving. The continued passing down of values, traditions and stories that help shape the identity of future generations is important to me, and knowing that my small contribution can make such an enormous difference to women and girls who are vulnerable and at risk of unnecessary poverty.”
What do you enjoy most about being part of the Women’s Giving Circle?
We must admit that we love attending the events as mother and daughter. We always meet someone new to share our stories and really enjoy listening to the fabulous speakers that Amy and the team bring to the events.
Also, we love being a part of an inspiring network of women who believe in the impact of giving and how it benefits everyone to build a thriving and resilient community.
Why do you think it’s important to give where you live?
There is so much need both in Australia and globally. Where do you start? Who has the most need? It can be overwhelming. Giving locally helped us to focus on what was necessary in our beautiful community. We are also able to meet and get to know the NRCF team who tirelessly work to support and build much needed programs across the community.
We believe giving locally allows us to see the impact of our giving. Supporting the continued growth of our community makes so much sense.
Favourite way to spend a weekend in the Northern Rivers?
Whilst retired, Julie still maintains the joy of looking forward to the weekend. Her favourite activities are walking Lennox Beach with her Kelpie X, Jakson and her bestie. They also enjoy gathering their family together for good food and catching up with friends.
Additionally, Yvarna and Julie have started a small farm gate business, growing flowers and fresh produce, which keeps them busy. “There are always things to do in our ever-expanding garden that brings us both great joy.”
Learn more about the Women’s Giving Circle here.