Glenreagh HeartStart
Let’s build a stronger Orara Valley, one connection at a time. We are shaping a future where everyone has the chance to thrive.
About Glenreagh HeartStart Inc.
At Glenreagh HeartStart Inc., we believe in the power of community. Since our founding on 15th November 2001, we’ve been a driving force for resilience, connection, and wellbeing in the Orara Valley. As a registered charitable organisation since 3rd December 2012, we’ve remained steadfast in our mission to empower our neighbours and strengthen our region.
Our Story: Leading with Heart
From the start, Glenreagh HeartStart Inc. has been a lifeline for our community. We pioneered the Community First Responder initiative, ensuring that those in medical emergencies received vital care until paramedics arrived. Over the years, with the support of professional paramedics, this initiative has grown into a cornerstone of safety and trust.
But our impact goes far beyond first response. With a passionate and dedicated team of more than 50 members—the largest in the area—we’ve tackled adversity head-on. From the devastating bushfires of 2019/2020 to the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve stood beside our community, rebuilding lives and reigniting hope.
Making a Difference: Grants and Community Impact
Our commitment to action is clear. By actively engaging with our community, we’ve secured over $334,000 in funding to meet critical needs. Here are some of the ways we’ve turned grants into meaningful change:
Orara Valley Hub:
A dynamic on-line space for bringing people together and connecting needs with available resources.
Golden Dog Restoration and mosaic diorama:
Preserving and enhancing a beloved local icon with pride.
Cultural and Community Events:
Supporting vibrant local festivals, youth initiatives, and cultural celebrations that unite and inspire.
These projects aren’t just about support; they’re about empowerment—helping the Orara Valley thrive today and build a brighter tomorrow.
What Drives Us:
Supporting First Responders:
From vehicle maintenance to program advocacy, we ensure first responders have what they need to save lives.
Building Connections:
Through the Orara Valley Hub, we’re creating a one-stop platform to connect people with resources, services, and opportunities.
Empowering People:
We believe in giving individuals the tools to help themselves, addressing challenges like health, and social isolation head-on.
Whether it’s linking residents to vital services, facilitating impactful projects, or fostering community spirit, we’re here to make a difference.
Our Vision: A Thriving Orara Valley
In February 2024, we took bold steps to redefine our mission and goals. Our vision, “Our Community’s Health and Wellbeing,” reflects our unwavering commitment to creating a stronger, healthier, and more connected community.
Join Us in Strengthening the Orara Valley
At Glenreagh HeartStart Inc., we don’t just respond to challenges—we build resilience, inspire hope, and create opportunities. Together, with the unwavering support of our community, we’re shaping a future where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Whether you’re a local, a volunteer, or a supporter from afar, we invite you to be part of our story. Let’s build a stronger Orara Valley, one connection at a time.
Meet the HeartStart Team
Chris Hanson - President
Over the years our organisation has been at the heart of the community and providers of first response until the ambulance arrives on the scene. Although our charity will always be supporting the community in the first response we need to change with the times and to provide for the greater need within Orara Valley. The direction of developing community hubs within the Orara Valley will greatly increase our capacity to support members within our community with greater services and social connection. We are looking forward to this exciting time and know we have the support of many community members.
Ross Neil - Logistics & OH&S
My interest in supporting the community has been ongoing for several years now. In later years I have been mostly engaged in supporting the community through the charity called Glenreagh Heartstart. That has led me through a pathway of supporting community members impacted by bushfires during the recent black summer fires. In recent times our Glenreagh HeartStart committee has been more focused on the development of community hubs for the Orara Valley area. The development of a community hub is an excellent initiative, and it’s heartening to know that the community has embraced this project and actively engaged in the process. Community hubs
play a vital role in fostering a sense of togetherness, providing a space for various activities and services, and promoting social cohesion.
Faye Neil - Treasurer
With a strong interest in supporting local communities in need, I have held a variety of positions on committees and used my skills to enable community growth through grant writing and other useful applications. Volunteer
community recovery support work after the 2019/2020 bushfires led to my involvement with the Fire to Flourish program as a co-designer. The
innovative processes strengthened my passion for building strong community foundations that support community-led approaches to reduce the anxiety and slow recovery that takes place in times of disaster. I view the Orara Valley
Community Hub Action Plan as a promising path toward realising this vision.
Chantel Kemsley - Secretary
Over the years our organisation has been at the heart of the community and providers of first response until the ambulance arrives on the scene. Although our charity will always be supporting the community in the first response we need to change with the times and to provide for the greater need within Orara Valley. The direction of developing community hubs within the Orara Valley will greatly increase our capacity to support members within our community with greater services and social connection. We are looking forward to this exciting time and know we have the support of many community members.
Melinda Waterhouse - Marketing, Fundraising & Public Officer
I am a long term resident and attended Nana Glen Primary from kinder to Year 6. After than then I went to high school in Coffs Harbour. This gives me a great understanding of local community and its needs. I am committed to supporting local community and bring services to regional areas. I am also the owner and operator of Kings Park Equestrian Centre.
Jack Shipman - Vice President
I am a fourth generation Glenreagh resident with a great passion for my community. As a property owner and timber mill operator, I understand the
impact natural disasters have on individuals and the community at large and am keen to contribute my skills to help community in disaster recovery
and resilience projects.
Rowan Morrison - Webmistress
As a new resident in the area, and being community minded, getting involved with HeartStart has been a great way to meet some locals and be involved with a fabulous project. I bring twenty plus years of web design and development, as well as a history of community service work with groups like Apex and Rotary. I am looking forward to contributing to the Orara Valley Hub and to helping to make it work as a way of connecting our community.