New committee to lead Bendigo ratepayers
New Bendigo committee is ready to roll up their sleeves - big plans, positive energy, and a focus on youth and community upliftment.
Bendigo‘s ratepayers and residents have elected a dynamic go-getter committee and the team is ready to tackle community challenges head-on.
Caz Van der Byl Meth has taken the reins as chairperson of the Bendigo Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association (BRRA), with Donovan Fisher serving as deputy chair, responsible for roads, infrastructure, and verges. Joan Gallagher will handle secretarial duties and conservancy matters, while Tim Visser steps in as deputy secretary and will oversee public relations.
Other key members include Clive Bus (social development), Las Venter (advisor), Debby Smith (community support), and Carole Potter (treasurer).
Meth urged residents to adopt a positive attitude and to focus on working together to uplift Bendigo. “I truly believe we can turn the area around if we unite as a community. Unity is strength,” she said.
The BRRA also bid a fond farewell to Davina Campbell, who has faithfully served as the association’s secretary for many years – so many that nobody is quite sure of the exact number. Remarkably, Campbell has served as secretary for as many as six different BRRA committees over the years. She was warmly praised and thanked for her tireless dedication and her sterling ability to simply ‘get things done’. Her efforts have left a lasting impact on the association and the Bendigo community.
Looking ahead, Meth said they are working on several exciting projects for the ward. “We plan to host a youth games night soon. We have a lot planned for the ward to make it a vibrant space for the youth,” she added.
As a powerful gesture of support, Meth recently handed over 20 care packs to the Southport Saps anti-rape victim-friendly room: 10 for women and 10 for children. These packs will be distributed to survivors of rape and domestic violence, as part of gender-based violence (GBV) support efforts.
Sergeant Thembeka Magubane, Saps GBV social help desk coordinator and Thabile Hlophe, Saps GBV activist volunteer, expressed heartfelt thanks to BRRA for the thoughtful donation.
“This will make a meaningful difference to victims who are left feeling broken and vulnerable. It shows that the community cares,” said Magubane.
The BRRA encourages all Bendigo residents to get involved, stay informed, and work together for a safer, stronger neighbourhood.
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