New Nurse, Farewell Maddi and Women's Surfing

9 - 12 December 2025

This week at Fletcher Street Cottage we’ve been reflecting on leadership, welcoming new care and celebrating the generosity of our community. Here’s a snapshot of what’s been happening.

Highlights

• This week we farewelled our wonderful Assistant Manager, Maddi Powell. The Fletcher Street Cottage team, visiting services and participants came together to celebrate her contribution and express their gratitude. Maddi’s leadership, care and commitment have left a lasting impact on our community and we wish her every success in her next chapter.
• We warmly welcomed Kate, our new nurse from Onebridge, who will provide primary care and support for women in our community. It’s wonderful to see how Women’s Space continues to grow into a dynamic and trusted place of care for vulnerable women.
• We are deeply grateful to the Byron Bay Lady Golfers for their generous $2,000 donation to support Women’s Space, ensuring funds go directly toward helping women most in need.
• A heartfelt thank you to Christmas Belles, a local Christmas singing group, who donated $600. Every contribution strengthens our resilience and helps us continue supporting our community during a challenging time of year.
• Women attending Women’s Space enjoyed a surf session on Tuesday afternoon, generously sponsored by Let’s Go Surfing. The afternoon was filled with laughter, confidence-building and connection, showing the power of community-led initiatives to create positive experiences.
• Impact story: A woman accessing our services shared her gratitude for the support she received during a difficult period. With help navigating complex systems, managing mental health stressors and accessing financial support, she is now working toward permanent residency in Australia. Stories like this remind us why our work matters.
• Our community spirit continued with Tegan, our volunteer hairdresser, visiting again this week and generously donating her time and skills. Acts of volunteering like this create dignity, confidence and meaningful change.

About Fletcher Street Cottage

Fletcher Street Cottage is a community hub in the heart of Byron Bay, providing essential support for people experiencing hardship. Our services include nutritious meals, access to showers and laundry, advocacy, health and wellbeing programs, and creative initiatives like Women’s Space, all designed to help people move toward stability and self sufficiency. With the support of our volunteers, partners and donors, we continue to make a difference every day.