Albury Wodonga FoodShare has celebrated 15 years of supporting local communities, bringing together the people, volunteers and partners who have helped shape the organisation into what it is today.
Held on Thursday 5 November, the special celebration brought together past and present staff, Board members, volunteers, suppliers and community partners to reflect on 15 years of building food security across North East Victoria and Southern NSW.
What began in 2011 as a small community initiative to help local people struggling to put food on the table has grown into an essential regional service, supporting thousands of individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.
Today, FoodShare operates across two sites with a team of seven staff and the support of more than 270 dedicated volunteers.
FoodShare CEO Katrina Pawley said the milestone was an opportunity to recognise the collective effort behind the organisation’s growth.
“FoodShare didn’t get here on its own. From our inaugural Board and founding volunteers to the hundreds of people, businesses and community groups who have supported us along the way, so many people have helped shape FoodShare into what it is today,” Ms Pawley said.
“While our operations have grown significantly over the past 15 years, what makes FoodShare so special is the community that has grown around it.
“We regularly hear from donors and volunteers who tell us FoodShare was there when they needed a helping hand, and now that they’re in a position to give back, they want to help someone else. That’s what community is all about.”
Recognising Our FoodShare Champions
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the inaugural FoodShare Champion Awards, recognising four individuals and organisations whose longstanding commitment, generosity and support have played an important role in FoodShare’s journey.
The inaugural recipients were:
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Peter Matthews – FoodShare’s founding manager, recognised for his leadership and determination in establishing and growing the organisation from its humble beginnings.
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Northern Victorian Institute of TAFE (previously Wodonga TAFE) – Recognised for providing vital warehouse space during FoodShare’s early growth and its continued commitment to supporting plans for a purpose-built facility.
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Jodie Kensington – A longstanding volunteer and Board Director whose advocacy and dedication to strengthening regional food security have made a lasting impact over more than a decade.
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Border Trust – A valued supporter since 2013, contributing almost $150,000 in grants to strengthen FoodShare’s infrastructure, services and emergency relief efforts.
Ms Pawley said the award recipients represented just some of the many people and organisations who have contributed to FoodShare’s success.
“From our volunteers who keep our operations running every day to the local businesses, suppliers and community groups who generously give their time, food and financial support, every contribution makes a difference.
“Our supporters know that when they give to FoodShare, their contribution stays local and helps real people in our community. We never take that generosity for granted.”
Looking Ahead to the Next 15 Years
While the evening was an opportunity to celebrate the past, it was also a chance to look towards FoodShare’s future.
Over the years, FoodShare has expanded beyond food rescue and distribution, introducing initiatives such as its Community Pantry, Feed More, Waste Less programs and the much-loved Border Easter Egg Hunt, all helping to strengthen community connections and improve access to food.
With demand for food relief continuing to grow, FoodShare remains focused on expanding its reach, strengthening regional food security and developing the infrastructure needed to support more local families into the future.
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey. Without that ongoing support, FoodShare simply wouldn’t be here 15 years later,” Ms Pawley said.
Help us celebrate 15 years of FoodShare and pay it forward!
Whether it’s donating $15, contributing 15 kilograms of food or lending a helping hand, every contribution helps make a local difference.