Laura Shortis – Executive Manager, Cire Training and Community Hubs
As Executive Manager, Cire Training and Community Hubs, Laura Shortis has much to offer given her extensive background in leadership roles across the community services sector and her strong appreciation for the positive impact that comes with community involvement and a sense of belonging.
In her role as Executive Manager, Laura is always looking for opportunities to strengthen the relationships the hubs have with individual members of the community, partner organisations and the community as a whole.
Laura believes that the key to the success is for the hubs to provide opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement, driven by a responsive approach to community needs.
Working across both Chirnside Park and Yarra Junction, Laura loves the opportunity this provides to connect with those accessing the hubs and is always up for a chat.
“It is wonderful to be working with a team of dedicated and passionate individuals to deliver services within my community.”
Jenelle Strachan – Community Hubs Manager
In her capacity as the Manager of Chirnside Park and Yarra Junction Community Hubs, Jenelle finds it extremely rewarding to be actively involved in helping strengthen the community.
Having completed a Bachelor in social science, diploma in business management and previous experience as a manager, trainer and in finance, Jenelle is responsible for the smooth day-to-day operations at both hubs.
Equally important, her role is to support and strength the community by providing a welcoming place for people to meet, feel a sense of belonging and a chance to develop their skills.
Jenelle is keen to deliver a wide range of programs, classes and activities that engage individuals of all ages. She welcomes all forms of feedback and suggestions.
“It is a privilege to be able to help people engage and have a sense of belonging in our community.”
Nicole Plasajec – Customer Service Officer Yarra Junction Hub
As a local resident and the newly appointed Customer Service Officer at our Yarra Junction Community Hub, Nicole is very in tune with current community needs. Having lived in town for two years and growing up in the Eastern Suburbs, she spends her spare time hiking in the mountains or enjoying brunch in one of the local cafes.
Having completed her Dual Diploma in Counselling and Community Services, Nicole has a deepened understanding of community needs and wants. Previously employed as a psychologist intake worker, she has a greatened sense of mental health concerns and how it can impact health and wellbeing, and the hardships one can face.
Nicole’s desire to help others is what drives her, with her number one goal being that those who are the most vulnerable in the community have their voices heard and needs met. She continuously engages with community members and local organisations for feedback on what current concerns are present, including increasing the food relief services available at the hub. Nicole is on the search for new activities to get the community socialising, to provide them with a welcoming, fun and safe place, and to further strengthen the support network within the local community.
“Nothing makes me happier than being able to assist the community I work and live in. Getting to know their needs, and providing them with a safe and fun space to connect with others is what it’s all about.”
Mandy Stokes – Customer Service Officer Chirnside Park Hub
As the Customer Service Officer at our Community Hub in Chirnside Park, Mandy is very proud to be the first face you see when you walk through the doors at the Hub. With a background in children’s services, she has spent the past 15 years focusing on the youth of our community and building connections with families and local services.
Through completing a diploma in Community Services Mandy has found a passion for the wider community, which led her to Cire and particularly enjoys organising our monthly Community Meals at the Hub because she feels it provides a space for people to gather, enjoy nutritious food and get to know each other better.
Mandy loves liaising with our locals on a deeper level and is always happy to have a chat or assist our community members in finding new ways to enjoy everything that Cire has to offer, from classes, to workshops, to social groups and activities.
“My favourite part of the day is having a cuppa and a chat with some of our locals and ensuring that the Hub provides a feeling of comfort, happiness and safety to our Community.”
