21 Feb 2026
Official Launch of Eco Hub
On Thursday 19 February, I had the privilege of welcoming our staff, volunteers, partners and supporters to the official launch of the Eco Hub. Following my introductory speech, the Mayor Michael Gobel outlined the successful partnership between WULN and Wodonga Council – and spoke highly of our environmental and community engagement outcomes.
We thank the Australian Government’s Stronger Communities Program, which funded an interactive display screen and digital conferencing system and the Border Trust, 2AY and Handbury Foundation, whose grant allowed us to purchase furniture and equipment.
On behalf of the Board, I take this opportunity to thank our staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly together to ensure the official launch was a huge success. Congratulations and well done everyone!
New Board Member
The Board has welcomed a new member – Jason Hilder, who fills a casual vacancy until our AGM in October and will be a valuable contributor to the governance of WULN. Jason has extensive experience in environmental programs, stakeholder engagement, horticulture, and research. He has chaired a national not-for-profit, Cohousing Australia, and was a committee member of Global Ecovillage Network. Jason has Landcare experience both as a worker and a volunteer – and currently volunteers at ONG Nursery.
ONG Nursery Strategic Plan 2026-2031
At its last meeting, the Board approved the ONG Nursery Strategic Plan 2026-2031. This plan provides the strategic direction and will guide the five-year business plan that Bev is
currently drafting and the operational activities at the nursery. The plan will be available on the website soon.
Deductible Gift Recipient Status
The Board has been working for some time on Deductible Gift Recipient Status for WULN. Confirmation was received this month from the ATO that this has been approved. WULN will now be able to receive donations that are tax-deductible for the donor. This means individuals or businesses who make gifts of money or property ($2 or more) to a DGR-endorsed charity can claim these donations as a deduction on their personal or business income tax returns.
Updated Reimbursement Policy
The Board has approved an update of the Reimbursement Policy, which will be on the website soon.
– Julie Hind, WULN Chair.