Staff Bite: Andrew, our new First Nations Community Engagement Officer 

The SecondBite team is excited to welcome Andrew Vella-Coolwell as our new First Nations Community Engagement Officer in Victoria.  

Andrew joined the team in January 2026 and is working with First Nations communities to help provide SecondBite food and FareShare meals through our Meals for the Mob program. 

Here, Andrew shares his story… 

I am a proud Gooreng-Gooreng, Mununjali and Gungalu man from south-east central Queensland.  

I was born in Brisbane before relocating to Djilang (Geelong), where I was raised on the beautiful lands of the Wadawurrung people. 

My life is deeply grounded in culture, community and family and I am a devoted husband and father of two. 

I have previously worked at Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative as Senior Cultural Advisor, supporting young mob to connect with culture and strengthen their identity.  

I have also held the role of First Nations Senior Advisor at the Geelong Football Club, where I played a key role in strengthening cultural understanding, connection and inclusion. 

I’m a keen sportsman, with a lifelong love for AFL and cricket, and I’m currently channelling my discipline and determination into training for my next boxing fight. 

I am extremely excited about the journey ahead with SecondBite and look forward to the lasting and meaningful impact we can make, not only across the state but nationally.  

I am passionate about ensuring mob are supported in the best possible way, particularly in relation to access to good food, recognising that strong food systems are fundamental to good health. 

Nyatne baa gobota (Thank you and take care) 

We’re delighted to welcome Andrew to the SecondBite team and look forward to the impact he will make helping more First Nations communities access good food.   

Thanks to our supporters like you, we can continue investing in programs like Meals for the Mob and reaching communities where support is needed most.