VIC/TAS Chapter President Report

It’s a pleasure to present this report following what has truly been a momentous year for the educate+ VIC/TAS Chapter. As it’s officially been one year rotation of my Presidency – the energy, collaboration, and commitment shown by our Committee and members have been nothing short of inspiring. 

Chapter Committee 
This year, our Chapter Committee has demonstrated remarkable teamwork. More than half of our Committee played an active role in delivering the 2025 VIC/TAS Chapter Summit – contributing across planning meetings, logistics, content, and on-the-ground coordination. 

It was especially encouraging to see non-Summit Committee members step up to help wherever capacity allowed – a true reflection of the collaborative spirit that defines our Chapter. Every single Committee member contributed to the Summit in some form – as a volunteer, speaker, chair, or attendee. It’s been a pleasure working alongside these members this year.   

Membership 
In terms of our Victorian and Tasmanian membership numbers – I’m delighted to report that membership continues to grow steadily. We currently have 750 members – an increase of 110 since this time last year. It’s fantastic to see this consistent growth, and we’re particularly excited to expand further into regional and Catholic schools across Victoria and Tasmania. 

Budget and Financial Position 
Financially, the VIC/TAS Chapter is in an excellent position. 

  • Our general Chapter operations saw income of just over $31,000, with expenses of around $2,000, resulting in a surplus of $29,000. 
  • The Chapter Summit similarly achieved an outstanding financial result, with careful stewardship resulting in significant surplus also being generated. 

These results reflect exceptional Sponsor and Delegate support and the overall success of the Summit. They place educate+ and the VIC/TAS Chapter in a strong position to reinvest in professional development opportunities for members and continue to deliver high-quality events across the VIC/TAS region and across the whole membership. 

2026 Committee 
As of our AGM on 12 November 2025, I would like to confirm the appointment of the 2026 Vic/Tas Chapter Committee.  

  • Kaushini Fernando – President  
  • Maria Mercuri – Vice President  
  • Murray Osborne – Treasurer  
  • Catherine McVean – Secretary 

Committee members:  

  • Hayley Galloway 
  • Mirella Busso-Lee 
  • Anna Beattie 
  • Melissa Martin  
  • Phillip Tascone 
  • Sophie Borillo-McLellan 
  • Jasmin Tavita  
  • Carla Baker  

We are so lucky to have a fabulous mix of Advancement professionals and volunteers put their hand up to build engagement within the VIC/TAS sector. 

Future Plans 
Looking ahead, we’re beginning early planning for the 2026 calendar. With the International Conference scheduled for September 2026, our Chapter planning will be designed to strategically complement – not compete with – that major event.  
 
Our key priorities for 2026 include: 

  • Welcome events in Term 1 – a chance to reconnect and set the tone for the year ahead. 
  • A VIC Half-Day Symposium across all Streams, to be held at the Catholic Leadership Centre in May. 
  • A regional networking event in or near Geelong, expanding engagement beyond metropolitan Melbourne. 
  • Coffee catch-ups and professional learning sessions in Hobart and Launceston, supporting our growing Tasmanian network. 
  • An AGM combined with professional development and networking opportunities to close out the year on a high note. 

These initiatives will continue to strengthen professional connections, build capability across our sector, and foster the sense of community that makes the VIC/TAS Chapter so special. 

I’d like to take a moment to acknowledge the ongoing support of our Chapter Sponsors, AdvancedLife, Blueboat and DGB Global. Also, thank you to our Chapter PD Sponsors Giving Architects and McCrindle, and also to our Chapter Event Sponsor, Uniform Group. We are incredibly fortunate to have partners who not only invest in our events but also genuinely believe in the importance of professional development and community within the Advancement sector. Their support allows us to deliver high-quality programs and opportunities for connection across the year.  

 

Kaushini Fernando 
VIC/TAS Chapter President 
Alumni and Community Manager, Carey Baptist Grammar School