Seeing older people actively participating in activities and, most of all, having fun are highlights for outgoing CEO Ken McQualter, who retires this month after 11 years in the role.
“Evergreen is a wonderful environment and has been a great place to work,” he says.
His Rotary background gave him the commitment to help older people in the community, which made BEC the ideal fit.
Reflecting on his time as CEO, Ken says the first three years of his career at BEC were focused on planning and managing the council's $1.8 million renovation, which was completed in March 2015, followed by the upgrade of Evergreen Park out the front.
He oversaw the growth of program attendance from 14,699 in 2012/2013 to 16,641 in 2018/2019, before Covid-19 intervened, “creating many challenges”.
However, the team's commitment to maintaining the community during lockdowns was a great achievement. He also notes the future age care reforms, in July 2024, will provide further challenges.
“It's been an honour to work with such a caring and dedicated team of people.
"Our staff and volunteers make a tremendous contribution to the lives of our seniors. Thank you all for your support.”