Chair, OzHarvest
Building the organisation that the mission deserves.
As Chair of OzHarvest, I’ve seen food insecurity in Australia increasing over the years. It’s clear that this is not a temporary problem, it is structural. And the organisations working to address it need to be built for the long haul, with the governance, leadership and financial foundations to match the scale of what’s needed.
This year, OzHarvest took meaningful steps toward the kind of sustainable growth that doesn’t just respond to need but anticipates it. Expanding our infrastructure, deepening our advocacy, and building the internal capability to scale without losing the heart of what makes this organisation extraordinary. These are not glamorous milestones, but they are essential ones.
None of it happens without dedicated people, from the entire OzHarvest team, the network of passionate volunteers and supporters, to the exceptional Board. I want to take a moment to genuinely thank each of my fellow directors, who give their time, expertise and counsel with great generosity. They bring rigour and care in equal measure, asking the hard questions. And they believe, as I do, that OzHarvest deserves a governance structure as strong as its people.
What strikes me most, year after year, is that the systemic challenges we face – rising food insecurity, policy gaps, the economics of waste – are all solvable. Not easily or quickly, but with the right partnerships, the right investment in evidence, and the will to stay in the room when it gets difficult.
OzHarvest is showing great leadership every step of the way and I’m proud to be part of this journey.
My deepest thanks to Ronni, James and every person across this organisation for the privilege of serving alongside you.
With admiration and purpose,
Lawrence Goldstone
Chair, OzHarvest