Featured, Stories - September 25, 2024
Twenty-five years of making a difference
“It’s not where you work but who you work with that makes the work environment a happy one.”
That’s why the past 25 years at Intereach has flown by for Libby Barker – time flies when you’re having fun.
Starting with the Family Support and Parenting team working from a small house in Wood St Deniliquin at the turn of the millennium, Libby has seen many organisational changes, plus several name changes – from the Community Centre, Deniliquin Council for Social Development to Regional Social Development Group and finally Intereach in 2008.
“The biggest change over the last 25 years would have to be the introduction of technology and the availability of training and resources. The Family Support team back in 1999 only had four staff, and we worked out of a little old house with very basis resources,” she said.
“One landline phone, a photocopier and one big old box computer that no one really knew how to use. There were no cars, no mobile phones, no laptops. Client notes and forms were all handwritten in paper files and our own vehicles were used to transport clients if needed.
“Quite a difference to where lntereach is today. Another positive aspect l feel has changed quite dramatically over time is the focus on staff wellbeing and inclusiveness along with the flexibility of being able to work from home.”
As a Child, Family and Community Worker, Libby has supported hundreds of families in the Deniliquin area and surrounding shires over the years.
I have always had a passion for parenting and a keen interest in helping families reach their parenting potential,” Libby said.
Libby (pictured left) with a Mayrung Public School student in 2023, taking part in the Kimochis program.
“I spend most of my time organising and running a variety of parenting groups in schools and the wider community. I also work one to one with participants and families to help develop positive parenting strategies and more favourable family outcomes.
“I feel great satisfaction when you know you may have helped make things just that little bit easier for families and that this may contribute to those families having happier outcomes in the future.”
And at this stage, her impact will remain for a while yet.
“I really have no intention of going anywhere for a couple of years yet,” she said.
“Working at lntereach has become such an ingrained part of who I am and I hope I’ve been able to help make a small difference to the families I’ve worked alongside.
“I have always been very proud to be a part of the lntereach team and have always felt valued, supported and respected.
“The best part of working at lntereach is the people I work with. I cherish the close friendships I have made over my 25 years and admire each one of them.”
Intereach has a range of exciting careers that help people reach their goals and support communities. Check them out at our website: Careers – Intereach
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