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/
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About Aussie Helpers
Aussie Helpers is a rural charity founded in 2002 by Brian and Nerida Egan. The non-profit began with a $20 raffle and has now grown into one of Australia’s largest charities providing assistance to struggling farmers. To date, Aussie Helpers has assisted more than 13,000 farming families through financial aid, supply donations, education support, mental health support and more. Co-founder Brian Egan has received many accolades for his efforts to help farming families, having previously won the Pride of Australia Medal and Senior Queensland Australian of the Year. In 2019, he was nominated for another Australian of the Year award. Nerida Egan was also nominated for Australian of the Year in 2016, as well as Who’s Who of Australian Courageous Women in 2010.
Media contact
Laura Kane – Cole Lawson Communications
laura.kane@colelawson.com.au
(07) 3221 2220