General Manager People and Culture

Fiona McGregor

General Manager People and Culture

Financial Year 2025 was a year of meaningful progress and heartfelt connection across Argyle Housing. The People and Culture team led initiatives that deepened our values, strengthened our culture, and supported our people in ways that truly matter.

Our focus remained on creating a workplace where every team member feels safe, respected, and empowered to thrive.

We are proud to report continued improvements in employee engagement, retention of high-performing team members, and strong positive perception scores across key dimensions. These outcomes reflect the dedication of our team and the strength of our shared purpose.

Key Achievements

Health, Safety and Wellbeing
We prioritised the wellbeing of our people through refreshed safety plans across all sites, regular safety flashes to raise awareness, and workshops focused on unconscious bias and cultural immersion. These efforts support the prevention of psychosocial hazards and foster a safer, more inclusive workplace.

• Our refreshed Employee Assistance Program (EAP) continues to be a valued resource for psychological wellbeing.
• The Wellbeing Program remains a cornerstone of our holistic health strategy, offering team members opportunities to invest in their physical and mental health.
• The Free Day in Support of Wellbeing is a cherished initiative that recognises the dedication of our team and encourages rest and rejuvenation.

Employee Engagement Survey
We achieved a 75% overall engagement score, with standout results in safety (88%) and accountability (85%). These scores reflect the trust and commitment within our team. We are now moving into the next phase of employee workshops and action planning to build on these strengths.

Diversity and Inclusion
Our culture of belonging was reinforced through the successful implementation of the Argyle Housing Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2022–2025 and the commencement of planning for the 2026–2028 RAP.

We proudly supported key cultural events including International Women’s Day, Harmony Day, Sorry Day, NAIDOC Week, Reconciliation Action Week and RUOK Day. These moments brought our team together and deepened our shared understanding.

Supporting Growth and Operational Excellence
The People and Culture team played a key role in supporting a strategic restructure of the Operations Team. This initiative was designed to enhance Client service delivery and improve operational efficiency, aligning with our commitment to continuous improvement.

Leadership Development
We launched the Team Leader Development Program, beginning with bi-annual People Leaders Development Workshops. These sessions received overwhelmingly positive feedback and are helping to build confident, capable leaders across Argyle Housing.

Values Immersion
Our Team Charter workshops continued to bring our values to life. These sessions foster open dialogue, shared understanding and a deeper connection to our ORIA values.

Succession Planning
We strengthened our succession planning framework, ensuring a robust pipeline of talented individuals ready to step into key roles and support the future of Argyle Housing.

Community Engagement
One of the most heartwarming moments of the year was our toy-building initiative. Team members came together to build and donate toys for children in our communities. The joy and connection this activity created was deeply felt and will be repeated in future years.

Challenges and Learnings
Attracting and retaining talent remains a challenge across the sector. Argyle Housing is actively working with team members to support the implementation of the Portable Long Service Leave initiative in line with NSW Government standards. Despite sector-wide challenges, our retention rates remain strong, and our commitment to supporting our people is unwavering.
Our focus on transparent communication, meaningful recognition and ongoing development are key to retaining great people and will continue to shape our strategy in FY26 and beyond.

Respect in Action

Respect is more than a value – it’s something we live every day. In FY25, our Team Charter workshops created space for honest conversations and mutual understanding. These sessions helped teams connect more deeply with each other and with our values.

Staff ORIA Awards

Our annual ORIA Values Awards are another powerful expression of respect. Nominated by peers and presented by our CEO, these awards celebrate individuals who embody our values in their everyday work. They are a highlight of the year and a testament to the strength of our culture.

The Argyle Housing Values Immersion program via the Team Charter workshops that have been introduced and that will continue throughout FY26 are a key initiative in ensuring the values are well understood and well lived across the organisation.

The Team Charter workshops provide the opportunity to create transparent conversations, feedback and learnings in relation to the values of Argyle Housing – Opportunity, Respect, Inclusion and Accountability (ORIA).

The Values are also reinforced each year via our annual ORIA Values awards, which are based on all employees nominating the team members they believe are deserving of Values recognition. These awards are presented by the Chief Executive Officer in December each year and are highly valued by team members.

The full list of nominees and winners for the Argyle Housing ORIA Values Awards for 2024 are included here:

Opportunity – We proactively seek ways to improve & add value 

The Nominees were: 
Eduard Anzes, Craig Byrnes, Scott Dunstan, Gabby Hopping, Sebastian Galvez, Karen Lumagui, Jaylene Rye, Cherie Tizzoni

And the award was presented to Gabby Hopping: 
Gabby is always looking for ways to improve or enhance the communities we are building with a focus on the residents’ everyday lives.  Gabby is always proactively seeking opportunities for grants, funding and project delivery that delivers on our commitments to community. Gabby wrote and secured the RYIP Grant and then managed the RYIP Project that delivered the Dave Taylor Park Placemaking Project in Griffith.

Gabby has been a diligent employee, always looking for ways to improve Argyle processes and takes every opportunity to grow. Gabby is always willing to go above and beyond and pushes beyond her comfort zone to achieve personal and team goals. She is an outstanding example of Argyle Housing’s values and is to be rewarded for her exemplary commitment to Argyle Housing.

Respect – We value the feelings and rights of everyone 

The Nominees were: 
Craig Byrnes, Cathy Lowden, Deborah Hill, Fiona McGregor, Leanne Pion, Marisol Wilson, Pema Sedon, The Rent Services Team, Renu Naidu, Sally Couchman, The Transitions Team

And the award was presented to Pema Sedon:  
Pema Sedon was honoured with an ORIA Values Award for her outstanding demonstration of the Argyle Housing value of Respect. Her compassionate, considerate and caring approach is evident in every interaction she has with both our clients and the ACT team.

Pema consistently brings empathy and understanding to her work, creating a safe and supportive environment for some of our most vulnerable clients. She listens deeply, advocates fiercely and always ensures that dignity and respect are at the heart of every decision. Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life and to meet them where they are is a true reflection of our values in action.

Her colleagues describe her as a quiet force of kindness and strength. She leads by example, showing what it means to treat others with humanity and grace. Whether she’s supporting a Client through a difficult moment or mentoring a team member, Pema’s presence is reassuring and inspiring.

Pema’s advocacy work has made a tangible difference in the lives of many, and her commitment to respectful, inclusive service is a model for us all. She reminds us that respect is not just a value – it’s a daily practice.

Congratulations Pema – your dedication and heart make Argyle Housing stronger.

Inclusivity – We foster diversity and collaboration 

The Nominees were: 
Jasmina Justec, Julie Roberts, The People and Culture team – Fiona McGregor and Lisa Mottershead were mentioned specifically

And the award was presented to Jasmina Kustec: 
“Jasmina’s leadership as Chair of the RAP Working Group has been outstanding. Jasmina has led the activities, events, and reporting requirements of our RAP which has supported and encouraged staff and community participation across our footprint.”

“I am so proud of the amount of change and positive impact that Jasmina has had at Argyle Housing. I want to nominate her for both Inclusivity and opportunity (or one needs to be picked if it can only be one) because she exhibits these values every single day. From the pure passion she demonstrates towards our Clients to see them reach their potential, stay safe and connect with community to improving processes, stakeholder relationships with the community. She is contributing toward a better future for our communities but also for Argyle Housing as an organisation.
 
Accountability – We share responsibility and are accountable for what we do and how we do it 

The Nominees were: 
Craig Byrne, Sebastian Galvez, Angela Kustec, Karen Lumagui, Brittany Mclear, MSO Team – Craig Carlson, Suzannah Ritchie, Tamara Woodward and Maddison Bullivant were all mentioned specifically, The Rent Review Team SWS, Elizabeth Sokic

And the award was presented to Elizabeth Sokic: 
Elizabeth Sokic was recognised with an ORIA Values Award for her unwavering commitment to our clients and her embodiment of the Argyle Housing values in everything she does.

Elizabeth is always willing to help. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every client feels heard, respected and supported. Her approach is thoughtful and patient, taking the time to explain things thoroughly so that clients truly understand their options and feel empowered to make informed decisions.

Her ability to communicate with clarity and compassion makes a real difference in the lives of those we serve. Elizabeth’s dedication to inclusion and respect shines through in every interaction, and her colleagues often speak of her calm presence and willingness to lend a hand whenever needed.

Looking Ahead and Future Focus – FY26

As we move into FY26, our focus remains firmly on building a workplace where every team member feels valued, supported and empowered to grow. The People and Culture team will continue to lead initiatives that strengthen our culture, deepen our values and support the development of our people.

Key priorities for the year ahead include: 

Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging 
We will complete the planning and launch of the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2026–2028, continuing our commitment to reconciliation and cultural understanding. Alongside this, we will deliver a range of diversity initiatives and training programs that reinforce our culture of belonging and ensure every voice is heard.

Leadership Development 
Building on the success of our Team Leader Development Program, we will expand leadership training and development across the organisation. Our goal is to continue to support leaders with the skills and confidence to lead with empathy, clarity and purpose.

Employee Feedback and Action Planning 
Following the strong participation in our employee survey, we will conduct workshops and develop action plans that respond to feedback and drive meaningful change. Listening to our people and acting on their insights is central to our approach.

Culture and Values Immersion 
Our Team Charter workshops will continue throughout FY26, providing space for open dialogue and deeper connection to our ORIA values. These sessions are a vital part of how we live our values every day.

Training and Development 
We will continue to invest in the growth of our team members through targeted training and development opportunities. Whether it’s technical skills, leadership capabilities or personal growth, we are committed to supporting our people on their journey.

Quotes or Testimonials:

Fiona McGregor and Lisa Mottershead were nominated for the ORIA Values Awards in the Inclusivity Category

Fiona McGregor was nominated for the ORIA Values Awards in the Respect Category . Thanks was provided to Fiona McGregor from a number of employees for the care she provided in assisting people with safety and wellbeing support in the workplace, with one vote of thanks in writing saying:

“Thank you, Fiona. As always, you are amazing.”

And another employee writing:

“Many thanks Fiona for all your help and support.” And “Your support during this time has been amazing and I will be forever grateful” 

Fiona McGregor was also thanked for her support to the community during the opening of the community garden beds in Griffith:

“Hi Fiona, I just wanted to say thanks for your help with the community garden beds yesterday. It really was appreciated.  Your encouragement and respectful interactions with children in particular, was such a delight to observe.  It is not very often I have seen that occur in my professional capacity.  I feel that because of you these children will start to take ownership of these garden beds.”

Data – at 30 June 2025

Headcount by Department

Headcount by reported gender
This graphic presents the distribution of Argyle Housing staff based on reported gender. It offers a visual summary of gender representation within the organisation, reflecting the diversity of the workforce.

Headcount by employment type 
This bar graph displays the composition of Argyle Housing staff based on employment type. It highlights the proportion of employees in full-time, part-time, casual, and contract roles.

Age Demographics 
This chart illustrates the age distribution of staff at Argyle Housing. It provides a visual overview of the organisation’s workforce across different age groups, offering insights into generational diversity and the overall age profile of the team.

Length of Service Data 
This chart represents the distribution of Argyle Housing staff based on their length of service. It highlights the organisation’s workforce experience, showcasing the proportion of employees across various tenure categories, from newcomers to long-serving team members. This visual provides insight into staff retention and organisational stability.

Staff Tenure Awards

Argyle Housing would like to recognise the staff who have been with us these past 5 years.

Eduard Anzures

We are proud to celebrate five years of dedicated service from John Eduard Anzures, a valued member of our Finance team. Eduard began his journey with Argyle Housing on 13 July 2020, stepping into the receipting role with focus and enthusiasm. Since then, he has grown into a key contributor across many areas of our Finance function.

Eduard now leads the charge on several important responsibilities including the timely processing of water bills and related charges, payment of leasehold rents and utilities, and maintaining the AASB13 Leasing Model. His attention to detail and commitment to accuracy help keep our operations running smoothly and efficiently.

Outside of work, Eduard is a devoted father and an avid runner with a passion for collecting running shoes. His energy and positivity are felt throughout the office, and he is always ready to lend a hand wherever it is needed. Whether it is solving a problem or simply sharing a smile, Eduard brings warmth and reliability to everything he does.

Thank you, Eduard, for your continued dedication and the spirit you bring to Argyle Housing. We are excited to see what the future holds for you.

Garth Barrett

Garth Barrett commenced his journey with Argyle Housing on 14 September 2020, following eight years of experience as a business manager in the hospitality sector. The onset of COVID-19 in regional NSW became a catalyst for change, prompting him to reflect on what truly motivated him, which was a desire to work in a sector that gives back to the community.

Starting in an Administration role at Argyle Housing, Garth quickly became a key point of contact for clients, allowing him to build meaningful connections and gain a deep understanding of the organisation’s diverse client base. In 2021, he transitioned into the role of Client Support Specialist, where he developed a strong foundation in holistic tenancy management.

When the organisation underwent a realignment in 2022, Garth was appointed to the newly established Transitions Team. In this role, he contributed to shaping a team focused in part on addressing the complex challenges faced by Clients and implementing strategies to support sustainable tenancies. Working closely with some of Argyle Housing’s most vulnerable Clients during their most difficult moments has been one of the most rewarding aspects of his career to date.

Garth’s recent appointment as Rent and Tenancy Solutions Manager represents an exciting opportunity to continue refining processes that support Clients and improve tenancy outcomes for both individuals and the organisation. Alongside the satisfaction of meaningful work, Garth values the mentorship he has received from colleagues and leaders who consistently embody the core values of Argyle Housing. The friendships he has formed throughout his time with the organisation have further enriched his professional experience.

Argyle Housing would like to recognise the staff who have been with us these past 10 years.

Joyce Schofield

We are thrilled to celebrate a very special milestone for one of our own. Congratulations to Joyce Schofield, affectionately known as Joy, on reaching 10 years of dedicated service with Argyle Housing.

Joy joined the Argyle Housing family on 20 July 2015, and from day one, she has brought not only her sharp financial skills but also a wonderful sense of humour and a lightness that lifts the whole team. Her presence in the Finance team has been nothing short of invaluable. Over the past decade, Joy has played a key role in keeping our financial operations running smoothly, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in everything she does.

But beyond the numbers, it’s Joy’s quick wit, warm smile and unwavering support for her colleagues that truly make her stand out. She embodies the spirit of Argyle Housing – committed, caring and always ready to lend a hand.

Thank you, Joy, for everything you bring to the team. We are so grateful for your continued contribution, and we look forward to many more years of working together.

Reconciliation Action Plan 2024

Chair, Jasmina Kustec

In 2025, Argyle Housing continued to walk alongside First Nations peoples with purpose and respect. Our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) guided us through a year of meaningful progress and deeper connection. We are proud of the steps we have taken to build stronger relationships, create opportunities, and foster cultural understanding across our organisation and the communities we serve.

This year saw the successful delivery of our First Nations Recruitment, Retention, Learning and Engagement Strategy. This initiative has helped us attract and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander team members while creating pathways for growth and leadership. We also rolled out cultural training programs across the organisation to ensure our people are equipped with the knowledge and awareness to engage respectfully and confidently.

Our partnerships with local networks have been a cornerstone of our approach. We worked closely with the Wingecarribee Aboriginal Network, Wagga Wagga Local Aboriginal Land Council and Griffith Local Aboriginal Land Council to listen, learn and collaborate. These relationships have helped shape our programs and ensure they reflect the voices and aspirations of the communities we serve.

Throughout the year, we hosted and supported a range of community events that brought people together in the spirit of reconciliation. We created spaces for open dialogue, shared learning and celebration. Our team actively participated in NAIDOC Week and National Reconciliation Week, with a strong focus on inclusive planning and respectful engagement with Traditional Owners and Custodians.

Respect remains at the heart of everything we do. It is reflected in our communications, our partnerships and our everyday actions. As we look ahead, we remain committed to walking this path with humility, openness and a deep sense of responsibility.

Key Achievements

First Nations Workforce Strategy Endorsed
Finalised and implemented the First Nations Recruitment, Retention, Learning and Engagement Strategy. This strategy was officially approved by the Board and reinforces Argyle Housing’s commitment to inclusive and culturally safe employment practices.

Cultural Awareness and Inclusion Activities
Successfully delivered four core initiatives across the organisation: National Reconciliation Week (May 2024 and 2025), NAIDOC Week (July 2024 and 2025), Cultural Awareness Training (June 2024), and Unconscious Bias Training (March 2025). These activities saw full participation from staff and Board members.

Cultural Resources Developed and Shared
Completed the First Nations Service Map and Cultural Protocols Booklet. These resources provide clear guidance for respectful service delivery and engagement with First Nations communities.

Enhanced RAP Visibility and Engagement
Launched a publicly accessible NAIDOC events calendar and communication schedule. These tools are available on Argyle Housing’s website and internal platforms to support staff and client involvement in reconciliation activities.

Expanded Interagency Collaboration
Strengthened partnerships through consistent participation in interagency meetings. This has deepened our engagement with Aboriginal stakeholders, local Traditional Owners and Custodians, and cultural networks.

Engaging Across Diverse Communities

One of the key challenges we faced was coordinating consistent engagement with clients and staff across geographically dispersed communities. This highlighted the importance of flexibility in our approach. We learned that co-locating with trusted staff and building relationships through presence and familiarity can significantly improve connection and trust. This learning will shape how we plan and deliver future engagement activities.

Respect in Action

Collaborative Cultural Events
Argyle Housing worked closely with the Wingecarribee Aboriginal Network to support National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC activities. This collaboration reflected our commitment to shared ownership and respectful celebration of culture.

Respect Through Education and Onboarding
All new staff were introduced to Argyle Housing’s Reconciliation Action Plan and cultural protocols during onboarding. Compulsory SBS Cultural Awareness Training and Unconscious Bias sessions equipped staff with the knowledge and confidence to engage respectfully and meaningfully.

Leadership Role Modelling and Cultural Participation
Our leadership team actively encouraged and facilitated staff participation in cultural events. Clients were informed in advance through our messaging, ensuring respect for both cultural observance and service continuity.

Inclusive Communication and Cultural Visibility
Key messages about cultural events and support for staff involvement were shared through regular internal communications. Event promotions were distributed via Teams, linking to a centralised list of activities. External communications were also shared through social media and the Argyle Housing website.

Supporting Cultural Safety Through Policy and Practice
Respect was further embedded through clear organisational policies such as the Bullying, Discrimination and Harassment Policy. All staff acknowledged these policies during onboarding. They are reviewed annually to ensure they remain culturally responsive and inclusive.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare to launch our next Reconciliation Action Plan, Argyle Housing will remain on an Innovate RAP. Our focus will be on embedding reconciliation practices into everyday operations and organisational culture. In 2026, our priority is to ensure reconciliation is not seen as the responsibility of a single team but as a shared commitment across all levels and departments.

We will deepen our engagement with existing Local Aboriginal Land Councils while proactively building new relationships with Traditional Owners and Custodians in the areas where we operate. Respect will continue to be embedded through the creation of culturally safe spaces for dialogue, ongoing support for staff, and by encouraging and enabling participation in key national events such as Sorry Day, National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week.

These actions will help ensure that respect for First Nations peoples is reflected not only in our policies but in our daily practices, relationships and values.

National Reconciliation Week

Event Highlight: National Reconciliation Week – Growing Together

Argyle Housing proudly hosted a heartfelt National Reconciliation Week event at the Tolland Community Centre, bringing together clients, community members, and staff for a day of reflection, connection, and shared growth.

The theme “Growing Together” was brought to life through hands-on activities that encouraged creativity and conversation. Attendees painted and planted pot plants, symbolising growth, renewal, and the nurturing of relationships. These simple yet powerful acts created space for storytelling and open dialogue about reconciliation and what it means to our communities.

The event honoured First Nations voices, acknowledged our shared history, and encouraged deeper understanding through connection and creativity. It was a day filled with warmth, learning, and mutual respect — a reminder that reconciliation is an ongoing journey we walk together.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to such a thoughtful and inspiring day. Your presence and participation made this event truly special.

Awards

Australasian Reporting Awards

We are proud to announce that Argyle Housing has been recognised at the 2024 Australasian Reporting Awards, receiving a Silver Award in the Overall General Category and being named a Finalist in the Not-for-Profit Category. 

These accolades are a testament to our commitment to excellence in corporate reporting and transparency. The Australasian Reporting Awards (ARA) are a prestigious benchmark for quality reporting across Australia and New Zealand, celebrating organisations that demonstrate best practices in accountability, governance, and stakeholder communication.

For the not-for-profit sector, high-quality reporting is more than a compliance exercise – it’s a vital tool for building trust, demonstrating impact, and engaging with the communities we serve. In an environment where resources are limited and scrutiny is high, clear and honest reporting helps ensure that every dollar and decision is aligned with our mission.

Our Annual Report 2023/2024 reflects this ethos. It showcases not only our financial performance and operational milestones but also the stories, challenges, and achievements that define our work. The recognition from ARA affirms the value of our efforts and places Argyle Housing among the leading organisations in the sector.

We are incredibly proud of our team, whose dedication and collaboration made this achievement possible. From data analysis and stakeholder engagement to design and storytelling, every element of the report was crafted to reflect our values and vision.

View the Argyle Housing Annual Report 2023/2024 here

We Were Finalists!

Southern Highlands Local Business Awards 2025 

Argyle Housing was honoured to once again be selected as a finalist in the 2025 Southern Highlands Local Business Awards. This recognition is a reflection of the dedication, compassion, and tireless efforts of our team, as well as the unwavering support from our community.

Being named a finalist in this prestigious local awards program highlights the positive impact we continue to make in the lives of those we serve across the Southern Highlands. It reinforces our mission to provide safe, secure, and affordable housing while fostering a sense of belonging and dignity for all.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported us and cast their votes. Your belief in our work fuels our passion and strengthens our resolve to keep making a difference.

As we celebrated this achievement, we were proud to stand alongside so many inspiring local organisations and businesses. Together, we continue to build a stronger, more connected community, one where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

PowerHousing Awards Night

A Celebration of Excellence 

We were honoured to attend the PowerHousing Awards Night last evening—a fantastic celebration of the incredible work being done across the Community Housing Provider sector.

It was a night filled with inspiration, connection and recognition of the people and projects making a real difference in our communities.

We are especially proud to celebrate our outstanding team members and initiatives:

• Georgia Popple: Rising Star Award Nominee
• Michael Stock: Excellence in Customer Service & Business Support Nominee
• Griffin Green Project: Modernisation of Built Form Award Nominee

These nominations reflect the passion, dedication and impact of our people and our work. We are so proud of what we’ve achieved together.

The evening was a powerful reminder of the shared mission we hold with so many across the sector, to create safe, inclusive and thriving communities for all.

A heartfelt thank you to PowerHousing Australia for hosting such a memorable and meaningful event.

Push Up Challenge 2025

In June 2025, the Argyle Housing team—Mark, Olivia, Jin, Roxanne, Scott, and Eduard—took part in The Push Up Challenge to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention.

This year, participants aimed to complete 3,249 push ups each, or 1,625 for those choosing the half target, over 24 days from June 5 to June 28. The number 3,249 represents the lives lost to suicide in Australia in 2023, according to the most recent national data. Each push up served as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health support and the urgent need for continued awareness and action.

Our team proudly supported Lifeline, an essential organisation that provides 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services across Australia. With up to 4,000 people reaching out to Lifeline every day, their work is more important than ever in a world facing growing mental health challenges.

The Push Up Challenge, in partnership with Lifeline, plays a key role in raising funds to ensure these life saving services remain accessible to those in need. Through our fundraising page, supporters contributed tax deductible donations, helping us push for better mental health outcomes across the country.

Thanks to the generosity of our community, the Argyle Housing team raised $265 during the challenge. Every donation represents more than just financial support. It is a symbol of solidarity, compassion, and a shared commitment to building a mentally healthier Australia.

Together, we are creating a future where no one feels alone in their struggles. Thank you to everyone who supported us, donated, and helped spread the message. Your encouragement strengthens our mission and reminds us all of the power of community.

Support the cause or learn more here 

R U OK Day

On September 12, 2024, our “One Argyle” team came together to mark R U OK Day, a meaningful occasion dedicated to connection, care, and mental wellbeing.

Across all our locations, team members gathered for lunch, taking time to check in with one another and foster a culture of support.

Argyle Housing proudly provided lunch for every team member, reinforcing our commitment to wellbeing and community. Offices coordinated with managers to close at lunchtime, allowing everyone to fully participate and enjoy the day together. The cheerful yellow outfits and relaxed Friday dress code added a vibrant, uplifting energy to the celebrations.

We also took several impactful steps to deepen our engagement:

• Displayed R U OK Posters: Offices featured bright, visible posters to raise awareness and spark conversations around mental health.
• Shared Team Photos: Teams posted photos on the Argyle Housing MS Teams site, capturing the spirit of the day and celebrating our strong sense of community.
• Practiced Everyday Care: Beyond the event, team members continued to check in with one another, nurturing a culture of ongoing support and genuine connection.

R U OK Day 2024 was a resounding success. It brought us closer together and reinforced the importance of mental health in our workplace. The enthusiasm and participation from every team member ensured these vital conversations received the attention they deserve.

Thank you for helping build a caring and connected Argyle Housing community.

Biggest Morning Tea 2025

At Argyle Housing, we believe in the power of community and the importance of showing up for one another.

This year, our team came together on May 16 at 10 am to host our annual Biggest Morning Tea, a heartfelt event that brought staff, clients, and supporters together in support of the Cancer Council.

For many of us, this event held personal meaning. Some of our team members and community have recently supported loved ones through breast cancer and other forms of cancer. These experiences remind us of the emotional and physical toll cancer takes, not just on individuals but on families and communities. The Biggest Morning Tea gave us a space to reflect, connect, and contribute to a cause that touches so many lives.

One of the highlights of the event was our Cupcake Competition, which sparked creativity and connection across all our offices. The focus was on visual presentation, making it accessible to everyone regardless of baking experience. Whether cupcakes were homemade or store-bought and decorated with flair, each entry was a celebration of effort and imagination. Five winners were recognised with a mug and certificate, with a little extra appreciation for those who baked from scratch.

On the day, participants shared photos of their creations, adding a joyful and personal touch to the event. It was a simple but powerful way to bring people together and celebrate the spirit of giving.

Fundraising Success

Thanks to the generosity of our team and community, we raised $299 for the Cancer Council. Every dollar will go toward vital cancer research, support services, and education programs that make a real difference in people’s lives. This achievement is a testament to what we can accomplish when we act with compassion and respect for one another.

At Argyle Housing, we know that small actions can lead to meaningful change. Events like the Biggest Morning Tea remind us that when we come together with kindness and purpose, we can create a stronger, more connected community.

Support the cause or learn more here

We Are Community

At Argyle Housing, respect is at the heart of everything we do. It shapes how we engage with our clients, our partners, and the broader community.

One of the most meaningful expressions of this value is our ongoing partnership with We Are Community, a local organisation dedicated to supporting people facing hardship.

Throughout the year, we have worked closely with We Are Community to provide food hampers to our clients in need. These hampers have offered immediate relief to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity, helping them get through difficult times with dignity and care. This practical support has made a real difference in people’s lives and reflects our shared commitment to ensuring no one is left behind.

In addition to this ongoing support, our teams also came together to help restock We Are Community’s pantry with essential non-perishable items. These supplies go directly to those who rely on the service, and every contribution is a step toward building a more compassionate and connected community.

Our collaboration is built on mutual respect and a shared belief in the power of community. It is not just about providing resources. It is about creating a sense of belonging and showing people that they are not alone.

We are proud to stand alongside We Are Community and other local organisations that share our vision. Whether it is through volunteering, donations, or partnerships, we are committed to being an active and supportive presence in the communities we serve.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported this work. Your generosity and encouragement remind us that when we act with respect and compassion, we can create lasting change.

Let’s keep working together to build a future where everyone feels supported, valued, and connected.

Supporting a young family to live

The staff at Argyle Housing in Bowral rallied together to provide essential items and support, ensuring the young family could start their new life with dignity and comfort.

The Argyle Housing team worked tirelessly to gather a range of necessary items, including a cot, kitchen supplies, towels, and blankets. Their dedication and swift action exemplify the core values of Argyle Housing, showcasing their commitment to supporting those in need within the community.

Local tradespeople also played a crucial role in this heartwarming initiative. Chelsea from A Perfect Move & Clean generously donated a $100 box of cleaning products and curtains, ensuring the new home was not only furnished but also clean and welcoming. Andy from Carpet Court Bowral went above and beyond by helping to deliver all the goods and even took the time to build the cot for the baby.

A special mention goes to Argyle Housing’s Repairs and Maintenance team, who worked diligently to turn around the home so it could be occupied. Their efforts included essential repairs, cleaning, and ensuring the home was safe and comfortable for the new occupants. Their hard work and dedication were pivotal in making the home ready in a short amount of time.

This collaborative effort highlights the incredible impact that can be achieved when a community comes together. The young mother expressed her profound gratitude, stating that the support from Argyle Housing and the local tradespeople has given her hope and a fresh start.

Appreciation

Today, we had the pleasure of recognising Jake Horton, Captain of The Salvation Army Bowral, for his exceptional support and unwavering commitment to those in need.

In moments of urgent and unforeseen hardship, Jake stepped in without hesitation, organising white goods and grocery donations for our Bowral clients who were facing significant challenges. His responsiveness and compassion made a real and immediate difference in their lives.

We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing work of The Salvation Army in the Southern Highlands. Their dedication to supporting vulnerable individuals and families aligns beautifully with our mission, and together, we are creating pathways to stability, dignity and hope.

Thank you, Jake, and thank you to the entire Salvation Army Bowral team. Your partnership means the world to us and to the clients we serve.

Wear it Purple

Celebrating Wear It Purple Day 2024

Our Bowral team proudly wore purple to celebrate Wear It Purple Day 2024, standing in solidarity with LGBTQIA+ youth and reaffirming our commitment to inclusion and respect.

We were honoured to represent Argyle Housing at the local event hosted by Creative Space Southern Highlands and River Road Moss Vale. It was a vibrant and heartfelt gathering that brought our community together in support of diversity and belonging.

The day was made even more meaningful by the inspiring words of Cecilia Janer, who reminded us that there is always room to grow in how we support our rainbow youth. Her message encouraged reflection, action and hope.

Together, we celebrated love, identity and the power of community. Let’s continue to make a positive impact—one step, one conversation, one act of kindness at a time.