As the first quarter draws to a close, there’s a lot to reflect on and a lot to look forward to. We are navigating through emerging challenges with the current fuel supply issues, our new strategy is taking shape, and we launched a new donation appeal in the lead up to Easter. Read my full update below.

It has been an exceptionally busy few months at estara, and I want to acknowledge the dedication of our teams as we navigate several emerging challenges including the current fuel supply issues. We recognise the concerns this situation presents, particularly around pricing and access, and we are actively liaising with other providers, advocacy groups and government agencies to closely monitor developments. We have also formally requested that our workforce be considered essential should fuel rationing be introduced, ensuring continuity of travel for staff delivering critical services. Our focus remains clear: taking proactive measures to manage this disruption so that our clients, and the essential supports we provide, remain uninterrupted.

Our strategy is taking shape, and we are now in the final stages of defining estara’s new strategic direction. We brought together our lived experience colleagues, Board directors and senior leadership for a full‑day workshop that helped refine our thinking and ensure our direction genuinely reflects the people who matter most. Alongside this work, we recently completed recruitment for new Board Directors with the skills and expertise to guide estara into its next phase and support the successful delivery of our strategic plan. We were delighted with the strength of the applicant field and are now progressing next steps with candidates. We look forward to sharing more about both our strategic direction and our new Directors with the organisation in the coming weeks.

This month, as we marked International Women’s Day, we took time to recognise the achievements of women across estara and to reflect on the broader purpose of the day: championing gender equality, celebrating women’s contributions in every sphere, and acknowledging the collective work still required to achieve true equity. Progress happens when women and men stand together in support of equal rights, equal opportunities, and the dismantling of barriers that hold women and girls back. I am proud that estara is home to so many dedicated and inspirational women including our fully female Executive Leadership Team whose leadership and impact strengthen our organisation and the community we serve. Read the article in the link below to hear what #BalanceTheScales means to the women guiding our purpose forward every day.

Across estara, we acknowledged the women whose dedication makes a real difference in the lives of people living with spinal cord injury, including:

Molly, Peer Support Mentor
Molly shared her full‑circle journey from sustaining her injury at 19 to supporting others with insight and empathy. Her story is well worth a read in the link below.

Rachael Leonardis, Spinal Nurse
Rachael’s commitment to her clients and colleagues is exceptional. As one client, Kym, shared: “Rachael has empowered and helped me get back on track. Now I can get the care I need safely at home.” Rachael’s dedication extends not only to her clients but to her colleagues, who benefit from her support and leadership every day

Kate Smyth – Community Fundraiser
As a founder of the Pink Flamingo Walk, Swim, Roll event, Kate has helped raise nearly $7,000 for estara – proof of the powerful impact driven by community leadership.

This month as we head into the Easter period, we launched our donation campaign, encouraging our community to “Swap Choccie for Change”. As a registered not-for-profit, campaigns like this matter to estara. Every dollar raised stays here in South Australia and directly supports the community programs that empower people living with spinal cord injury.

We have been grateful for the generosity of our supporters, and I’m pleased to share that there is still time to take part if you haven’t already. If you’re considering contributing, please know that every gift has a meaningful impact, and your support truly helps change lives.

Wishing you all a safe and happy Easter with your friends and family.

Nicole

CEO, estara

Balancing the Scales - read more

A coffee with molly - read more

swap choccie for change - donate here