Mindful Margaret River’s New Project Implementation Officer Appointed

Joint media release

Mindful Margaret River’s new Project Implementation Officer will be Erin Statz.   Mindful Margaret River chair Stuart Hicks says that Erin was appointed from an exceptional field of candidates for the recently advertised position.   “We are delighted Erin will be joining us in this important position to help lead our program to enhance mental health and wellbeing in the Shire,” Mr Hicks said.   “We have an energetic taskforce of volunteers and a fantastic plan to help build community resilience. Erin’s arrival will give us the crucial skills and muscle to help get our programs in place.”   Erin’s position has been funded as part of a $170,000 Lotterywest grant to Mindful Margaret River. Her appointment runs till December 2022.   The Shire of Augusta Margaret River is backing the initiative by providing full staff support systems as well as an office at the Shire for Erin. The innovative arrangement will see Erin temporarily employed as a staff member at the Shire, using Lotterywest grant funds, but working for Mindful Margaret River and responsible to its Board.   Shire Director of Corporate and Community Services James Shepherd says that the Shire sees this as a practical way to assist Mindful Margaret River to engage an excellent officer whilst not facing the expense of setting up and managing an office for her.   “The Shire believes this is a great assistance to a community group that’s doing a massive job,” Mr Shepherd said. In addition the Shire has granted $20,000 funding support to assist Mindful Margaret River’s program this year.   Mr Hicks acknowledged the Shire’s support for its endeavours. “Mindful Margaret River was born just before Covid struck early last year. We have had a busy first year and are grateful to the Shire which has supported us closely throughout.”   Erin Statz says she’s looking forward to starting in her new role.  “I have really enjoyed working on the Mindful Margaret River Taskforce, working as a team leader from the outset,” she says. “It’s a privilege now to lead the Taskforce in our wonderful work.”   Mr Hicks praised the work of volunteers Stacey Hutt, Christina Mann and Kendra Grace who have helped lead the Taskforce till Erin’s appointment.   Erin Statz was previously Local Community Coordinator for the Department of Communities in Margaret River. She took maternity leave during 2021. As the Times has reported, the positions of the Department’s Local Community Coordinators has been under review and there has been no indication that Erin would be return to her position in Margaret River after her maternity leave.   The Shire and Mindful Margaret River are working to encourage the Department of Communities to continue active participation in the Margaret River region in the future.   Contact Stuart Hicks, Chairman, Mindful Margaret River 041 993 5366 [email protected]