General News
18 November, 2024
Kaylene Pietsch: Empowering Dimboola's growth
Kaylene Pietsch is not a volunteer likely to shy away from difficult administrative decisions or executive responsibility when it comes to her volunteering work.
She currently holds the position of president of the Dimboola Progress Association (DPA) Incorporated. What additionally sets her apart is that - unlike many volunteers - she runs her own business, Kayls Hair Place, on a full-time basis.
Originally from Murtoa, Kaylene now resides in Dimboola with her farmer husband Nick. Her deep commitment to the well-being of Dimboola fuels her passion for volunteer work.
"I love helping Dimboola grow," she said.
"It's an absolute buzz watching Dimboola progress after the 38 years I've been here. In the Progress Association, we view ourselves as movers and shakers - we get things happening and you see the effect in town. Given the utmost importance we place on progress, we made sure to emphasize this idea in our new name."
It has now been 12 months since DPA Incorporated was formed.
"We recently had our AGM where a new team of committee members and volunteers for subcommittee working project groups will engage with the community and its needs," she said.
"We're currently working on the catering shelter and extension of the soundshell to be finished by Christmas. These projects have a strong presence for community fundraisers, shire functions, grants and donations."
Mrs Pietsch said that she owes her strong community spirit to her father - a mover and shaker himself in Murtoa. Drawing inspiration from her father's remarkable involvement in volunteer work, she sees herself following in his footsteps.
"I just watched the way he lived," she said.
Her father, Lindsey Schodde, a respected figure in Murtoa, was actively engaged with the AMP Society, the Murtoa Historical Society, and the Murtoa Lions Club. In 2008 he received the highest honour bestowed by the Lions, The James D. Richardson Lions Award, in recognition of his outstanding Humanitarian Service to the community in the Murtoa region.
Furthermore, his collaborative efforts with other members of the Murtoa Historical Society played a pivotal role in preventing the demolition of the Stick Shed, which has now become a prominent tourist attraction in the area.
Recently, he curated an exhibition of antique taxidermy at the Murtoa Water Tower Museum.
Reflecting on her father's influence, Kaylene said, "I followed by example. The best quality a volunteer can have, is being aware of what needs to be done and following the job through."
Written by Lou Mason