An experienced local health, government and community services leader will head the Mallee Accommodation and Support Program Board for the coming term.
Mary Rydberg has been appointed as MASP Chair and formally stepped into the role on July 1.
She succeeds Caroline Smith, who served as Chair for the past five years and helped to lead a transformation of the organisation.
Mary brings over 25 years of public service expertise to the role, having served organisations such as the Mildura Base Hospital and Mallee Track Health and Community Services.
“I’m honoured to be appointed to this position and will continue to help guide MASP to empower our community to be free from homelessness, abuse, poverty and disadvantage,” she said.
“It is also a privilege to follow in the footsteps of Caroline Smith, who has served the organisation and the community with such distinction over the past five years.”
Caroline Smith’s term as Chair is highlighted by the development of MASP’s new strategic plan and therapeutic model of care, as well as the appointment of Vincent Wilson as Chef Executive Officer.
“I’d like to congratulate Caroline on her outstanding service to MASP and welcome Mary to the role,” Mr Wilson said.
“Our Board is packed with local knowledge and experience, ensuring the organisation is heading in the right direction and meeting the needs of our communities across the Mallee.”
Mary Rydberg was previously MASP’s Deputy Chair. Caroline Smith will remain a non-executive director.
Mildura-based lawyer Nina Smart and Stephen Parr, a local health official and campaigner, have also joined the Board.
MASP’s therapeutic model of care is designed to foster safe, strengths-based, growth-orientated service provision from a trauma-informed and therapeutic perspective.
The strategic plan for 2022-25 is based on based on the organisation’s ‘CARES’ values – Connected, Accountable, Responsive, Empowering and Safe.
MASP is currently building a series of accommodation developments, including the Sunnyside project in Mildura which will provide 13 one-bedroom units, helping to lift people out of the cycle of homelessness.
MASP is also a key member of the Mildura Social and Affordable Housing Taskforce, collaborating with the city council and other local organisations to tackle the affordable housing crisis in Sunraysia.
