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Farewell to Three Years of Fletcher Street Cottage
As I reflect on my 3½ years at Fletcher Street Cottage, my heart is full… full of love, deep gratitude and the bittersweet sadness that comes with saying goodbye. In that time, I have watched Fletcher Street Cottage grow, evolve and respond to the shifting needs of our community, and I have grown alongside it. Together, we adapted, learned and became a vital source of support for so many in the Byron Shire. This place has been one of my greatest teachers. I am incredibly proud of all we have achieved and deeply honoured to have walked alongside so many people in their journeys, just as they have become part of mine.
Fletcher Street Cottage is built on community, partnership and collaboration. From volunteer podiatrists and hairdressers, to the team who take our women’s group surfing, from those who bring sewing machines to mend clothing, to the woman who quietly does a weekly shop for us, every person who donates time, skills, clothing or care is woven into the heart of this place. We are who we are because of this community.
Inside this little cottage, we have shared laughter, tears and hope. I have witnessed the team hold space with such gentleness, integrity and compassion. Working alongside these incredible people has truly been an honour.
To my colleagues, mentors and friends, thank you. Each of you have taught me so much.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the Byron Community Centre and Fletcher Street Cottage for the 3½ years I will never forget. This place has shaped me, challenged me and made me a better person. I hope to carry forward the same love and compassion I’ve seen my colleagues embody every day… into my next role and throughout the rest of my life.
Words by Maddi Powell, Assistant Manager & Community Support Worker, Fletcher Street Cottage (2022-2025)
