Wednesday, 22 February 2023

Denise Budge

Jackson TAYLOR (Bayswater) (09:57:417:): I want to also acknowledge Denise Budge, an absolute legend and one of the most wonderful people I have met. After 37 years in the community sector, including nearly seven at Knox Infolink as manager, she has decided to enjoy a very well-deserved retirement. Denise is one of these people who does not hog the limelight, but I wanted to make sure she was recognised for her tireless work in supporting those who need it most.

Knox Infolink provides a wraparound service for those in Knox doing it tough, based on providing food relief, material aid, casework support, information and referrals along with advocacy. When Denise joined Infolink the future was quite uncertain, with drastic changes at the time meaning critical decisions with the dedicated team were made to sustain the service into the future. While manager Denise worked to refocus and grow the core business for food relief, expand the Share the Joy Christmas process project, step up support during COVID to support the community, begin the community breakfast program and continue their vital referral and advocacy services. Denise will be sorely missed by her team, who she cannot thank enough for their extraordinary work and support. She will be missed by the community and of course me.