The Bass Coast Community Foundation launched the Joan Eltringham Memorial Fund last week. 

Set up through the generosity of Joan’s late brother John Eltringham, this fund will go on supporting children for generations to come and is accepting public donations to improve well-being, inclusiveness and literacy for disadvantaged and vulnerable children attending Bass Coast College.

Joan was a passionate and highly respected teacher at what was Wonthaggi Secondary College for 29 years from 1979 – 2008 and worked mainly with children to improve literacy and inclusiveness.

“She provided amazing intervention support, positively influencing the outcomes for many students over her very successful career,” said Darren Parker, Principal of Bass Coast College.

“We are very proud to benefit from the Joan Eltringham Memorial Fund and this very special and ongoing relationship will assist in literacy support programs for students for years to come.”

In launching the fund, the Treasurer of the Bass Coast Community Foundation, John Walsh said,“we are thrilled our initial donation from the fund is $7000”.

With support from the benefactor’s niece, Lisa Farrugia, the Foundation will donate funds each year to Bass Coast College specifically for disadvantaged children.

“This is a wonderful legacy for both my aunty Joan and uncle John,” said Lisa.

“The bigger the fund the more will be donated each year so I hope the Bass Coast giving community will get behind this Fund and continue to build it through donations.

“Lots of little donations do add up!”

Lisa said both Joan and John avoided the spotlight as much as they could, preferring to work quietly to make a difference.

John Walsh said BCCF is presenting the fund to the community “so it may take over the mantel and continue to raise funds for and advocate for improving educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth attending Bass Coast College”.

The Bass Coast Community Foundation is Bass Coast’s charity, independent of religious or political persuasion. It was established in 2002 in response to a growing need for a sustainable source of funds for community projects. It works in partnership with donors, local organisations and the community to strengthen Bass Coast and increase opportunities for its residents.

Donate to the Joan Eltringham Memorial Fund at www.givenow.com.au/joan-eltringham-memorial