Aussie Helpers Founders Retire -Media Release 17/07/2019

Carrying on the legacy: Aussie Helpers appoints a new CEO

One of Australia’s largest rural charities, Aussie Helpers, has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer following the retirement of co-founders Brian and Nerida Egan.

The charity is close to the heart of incoming CEO, Natasha Kocks who is the Egans’ daughter and was selected by the board of directors to take over the role.

Ms Kocks, who has been involved with the charity since it was founded in 2002, said she is looking forward to continuing her parents’ important work helping our farmers and their families.
“I have big shoes to fill, but I am committed to carrying on the legacy my parents have worked so hard to build,” Ms Kocks said.
“My parents have dedicated the past 17 years to providing vital assistance to Australian farmers affected by floods, droughts, poverty and isolation – it’s their personal touch that has helped the charity grow and thrive over the years.

“For the first 12 years, they managed Aussie Helpers by themselves. My father would take it upon himself to answer each and every call from people seeking help and a friendly ear. He wanted to know everyone’s story so he could give the best help possible.
“As incoming CEO, my vision is to retain that personal connection and commitment to helping local communities, while introducing new ideas for initiatives, fundraising efforts and modernising our processes.”

Aussie Helpers has provided more than $24 million in aid to more than 13,000 farming families since 2002.
The non-profit organisation provides farmers and their families with monetary donations, farming supplies, household necessities and educational support for children in remote areas.
Ms Kocks brings years of managerial experience to her role, having owned and run several beauty salons before choosing to focus on helping her parents run Aussie Helpers.
Ms Kocks’ appointment as CEO comes after founders Brian Egan and his wife Nerida Egan resigned to focus on ongoing health issues Mr Egan is experiencing.
Mr Egan said that while he finds it hard to step back from Aussie Helpers, he knows the charity is in good hands.

“I know Natasha shares my passion for helping struggling farmers, and I am confident the charity my wife and I founded will continue to grow under her leadership,” said Mr Egan.
“We founded Aussie Helpers years ago, when I saw how tough farmers experiencing drought were doing it.
“Nerida and I gathered up all supplies we had in our pantry and held a local raffle in Dalby to raise funds for farmers.
“Aussie Helpers started with a $20 raffle and has now grown into a charity that helps hundreds of farmers each year.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of the sponsors who’ve supported our cause over the years and all of the members of the community who’ve made a donation. Because of your support, more farmers have received aid in times of great need.
“Thank you also to Aussie Helpers volunteers, without whom we wouldn’t be able to operate.
“I encourage anyone looking to make a difference in the lives of farmers to visit the Aussie Helpers website or call up to find out how you can assist.”

To find out more about Aussie Helpers, visit https://aussiehelpers.org.au/
– Ends –

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Helping Aussie farming families this Christmas

Like millions of Aussies right now, many farmers are struggling. And, as hotter and drier conditions return, we’re anticipating more farmers will need our help than ever before.

It’s a tragic irony that farmers work from sun-up to sunset to feed our families—and yet many will struggle to afford a Christmas lunch and gifts for their loved ones.

There are many ways to helps us to help Aussie farming families in need this Christmas, including donating funds, donating goods, volunteering, fundraising and partnering.

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I’d like to help in the following ways

Donate goods
Wherever possible, please deliver goods to one of our volunteer collection points (see here).
If you’d like to become a collection point for donated goods, please email us today.
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We’re here to help you and your families

Times are really tough for farming families across Australia.

Please know that you’re not alone.

With the help of our donors, partners and volunteers, we’re doing everything we can to support you through this tough time and bring a smile to your family this Christmas.

If you’re a farmer and would like to register for support this Christmas, please complete the form below.

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If you are unable to provide your PIC, please send your request in writing to admin@aussiehelpers.org.au
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Help an Aussie farming family this Christmas

Aussie farmers saw the signs that dire economic and environmental conditions were about to hit them and they’ve been working tirelessly all year to prepare, survive and provide.