Recognising that facilities are often the largest and most valuable assets community organisations are responsible for yet can also be among the most challenging to manage, Community Trust South partnered with Active Southland to deliver an Asset Management Workshop under the Capability Collective banner.
More than 20 representatives from organisations across the region gathered on Friday to build their knowledge and confidence in managing community assets, learning practical ways to take a proactive approach to maintenance, planning and future investment.
The workshop was led by Gemma O'Neill, Active Southland's Lead for Spaces and Places, who guided attendees through the fundamentals of asset management.
For many organisations, balancing day-to-day service delivery with facility management can feel overwhelming, particularly when resources, budgets and volunteer time are limited.
Community Trust South Strategy, Insights & Policy Manager Jess Domigan said the workshop was designed to give community groups the knowledge and confidence to approach asset management more strategically.
"We want our community organisations to have more time focusing on what matters most to them. By sharing practical tips, tools and approaches, we can help make the operational side of things simpler and more straightforward."
While the workshop provided valuable technical knowledge, one of its greatest strengths was the opportunity for organisations to learn from one another.
Attendees shared challenges, discussed solutions and identified opportunities to support each other's work, demonstrating the collaborative spirit that continues to define Southland's community sector.
As attendees return to their organisations equipped with new ideas and resources, Community Trust South looks forward to seeing the positive impact of those learnings in action, helping community facilities remain safe, sustainable and fit for purpose for years to come.
The Asset Management Workshop is one of a growing number of learning opportunities offered through Capability Collective, an initiative designed to strengthen the capability, confidence and connections of community organisations across the region.
Community groups interested in upcoming Capability Collective workshops and events can find more information on the Community Trust South website.
