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

SecondBite recently welcomed new team member Heidi Avolio into the role of First Nations Community Engagement Officer. 

Here, Heidi shares her story and what she’s looking forward to in her new role… 

I was born in Tasmania (Lutruwita) and am a proud Palawa woman. I now live in Mareeba, 60 kms west of Cairns. 

After having my children, I worked as a primary school teacher prior to transitioning into the not-for-profit sector. I initially worked in housing and homelessness, and later managed a Neighbourhood Centre in Kuranda, Far North Queensland. 

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, travelling, weaving, and outdoor activities. 

In my new role of First Nations Community Engagement Officer I will be developing, strengthening and managing relationships with SecondBite’s First Nations and charity partners – extending our reach into regional and remote communities and further developing the Meals for the Mob program.  

I am looking forward to travelling into regional and remote communities and deepening relationships with community members regarding the Meals for the Mob program.  

This is important to me because, with the high cost of living in rural and remote areas, providing free nutritious meals can help community members – especially children – improve their health and educational outcomes.  

I am deeply passionate about supporting other Indigenous Australians to improve their outcomes as they journey toward self-determination.  

Welcome to the SecondBite team Heidi. We look forward to seeing the great things you can achieve in your new role.