A New Chapter for Byron Community Centre

A leadership transition to support continuity, stability and a strong sense of care through this next chapter.

June 3, 2025
Amanda Kuhn
A New Chapter for Byron Community Centre

As the Byron Community Centre celebrates 130years of service to the Byron Shire, we're entering a period of carefully planned transition, designed to support stability now and strengthen our impact into the future.

From August 2025, our current Operations Manager, Michelle Heuer, will step into the role of Acting General Manager. Michelle's appointment ensures continuity across our programs and partnerships, with her deep knowledge of the Centre and longstanding commitment to the community guiding us through this next chapter.

'I'm grateful for the opportunity to step into the Acting General Manager role during this important period, "Michelle said. "My focus will be on supporting the team, maintaining operational continuity and ensuring the new leadership structure is implemented smoothly and with care."

This follows the planned departure of our long-serving General Manager, Louise O'Connell, who will finish in late July after six years in the role. Louise has led the Centre through times of both crisis and renewal. And we thank her for her dedication and care.

"It has been an incredible honour to serve the Byron community alongside such a passionate and committed team," comments Louise. "I'm proud of what we've built together and confident the Byron Community Centre is in good hands as it continues to evolve."

A permanent General Manager is expected to be appointed within six months, with the Board overseeing a considered recruitment process to ensure strong, values-driven leadership.

At the same time, we're also expanding our capacity with the addition of a new Relationships Manager role.

This strategic appointment will focus on fundraising, donor engagement and partnerships. Helping secure the resources needed to support our long-term sustainability.

Bruce Clarke, Chair of the Board, shared:

"This is a natural point of renewal for the Centre.  With Michelle stepping in and the new Relationships Manager role coming on board, we're building from strength, ensuring we stay connected, well-governed and future ready."

A we honour the Byron Community Centre's 130Year legacy, we do so with care, gratitude and a clear eye on what comes next.

We send thanks everyone who continues to support our mission and our community.