Tracy has a demonstrated history of working in civic & social organisations. He is skilled in communication, customer service, community development, Strategic Planning, and Stakeholder engagement. Tracy is a strong community and social services professional with a focus on adapting to meet the demands the rapidly changing population demographic western society, and in particular rural communities face. Tracy was appointed as a trustee to the Community Trust of Southland in 2005 and chaired the trust for six years, finishing his term in 2015. Tracy was the Gore District Council Mayor for 18 years, and was the elected Gore District Council representative to the Community Networking Trust Board, and is now an elected independent member of the current Board.

Nigel is a proud member of the Eastern Southland community, and you may recognise him from his long standing career in local real estate. He has a strong interest in serving the local community; including Rotary and Chamber of Commerce, he is a Justice of the Peace, and a member of the Gore Volunteer Fire Brigade. Nigel brings a wealth of local people-knowledge, connection, and understanding of the area to the role, alongside a strong governance history. Nigel is the Immediate Past Board Chairperson.

I am a Registered Social Worker and Member of the ANZASW. My husband and I moved to Southland from Melbourne so we could be closer to family and enjoy all that the region has to offer in terms of the outdoor lifestyle – which we really missed when living in the city! I’m interested in how services can work together and be supported to do their best work for the community they serve. I’m inspired by the drive and passion of local people making things happen and the way the community gets on board to give so generously of their time and resources to get things done. I can’t think of a better place to live and raise our children.

Ross is a company director, involved in farming and has been involved as a board member on the CNT from its founding, and before that with the initiating group. Ross is currently the President of the International Christian Chamber of Commerce New Zealand also fostering business development, and trade. He believes we live in a wonderful part of the world and loves to be part of facilitating things that are of value for families in our community.

Lewis worked extensively in the local social services field as social worker, primarily based at Gore Hospital supporting patients before retiring. He has had a long term interest in and involvement in local social services, and was invited by a former Board Chairperson to make himself available for board membership. Lewis enjoys participating with people and organisations who are willing to work collaboratively toward shared community goals. Lewis feels our community has immense potential for people of all ages and interests. It is an ideal community to raise a family in, is close to an amazing hinterland and is building a comprehensive infrastructure of essential services. Lewis believes this community offers the best of both worlds, the benefits of the services of a medium size town and district along with the advantages of rural living.

Stacey is a Public Health Nurse employed by the Southern DHB. She provides health support and advice to local families, preschools and schools. Stacey is new to the Community Networking Trust board in 2015. Stacey feels the Community Networking Trust is an essential component to enable the people of Eastern Southland to access services. Stacey enjoys living in Eastern Southland and wants the community to continue to develop to meet the needs of its ever changing population.

Rhonda was born in Gore and grew up in Waikaia and Tapanui. She received her Bachelor of Commerce degree from Otago University in 1992, became a Chartered Accountant in 1996 and worked for accountancy firms in Gore and Invercargill. Rhonda was the Chairperson of the Gore Health Board from 2004 until 2009, and then became the Business Manager at Gore Health Ltd. Rhonda brings her vast experience, and expertise in both the financial and governance forums to the Board of Community Networking Trust.

John is a Presbyterian Minister working as a Family Worker for Mataura Presbyterian Church, working with families and individuals throughout the community, of all ages, but primarily focusing on children. John has a BA in Arts, another BA in Theology, and a BTh from Otago.

Bio to come.

Tracy Hicks and Glenys Dickson (Board Member at the time of the launch) supporting the launch of Neighbourhood Support alongside Constable Julie Russell, Cr. Bronwyn Reid, Kelly Young, and Senior Sergeant Cynthia Fairley