New Frontier Services Snowy River Patrol Minister Rev Rowena Harris has already been embraced, both by the cooler climate and the community.
Ms Harris is the former Patrol Minister for the Croajingolong Patrol where she was based out of Mallacoota in the far eastern corner of the state. She has moved 150km west to Snowy River country.
As the Patrol Minister, Ms Harriswill work with the congregation in Orbost but the majority of her time will be spent supporting the wider community.
The Patrol extends across the region which includes Bemm River, Marlo Plains, Cape Conran and up the Bonang Highway and associated areas including Bonang, Bendoc, Tubbut and Buchan.
Ms Harris will visit families living in the more isolated parts of the region and take on a meaningful role in the small communities of the region, providing encouragement, support and a genuine hand of friendship.
Rowena is looking forward to meeting community members and making new friends following her formal induction on Monday 14 May.
With boxes still scattered in the living room, Ms Harris says she is amazed by the community support for the Patrol and the breathtaking scenery of the region.
“It is beautiful country around here and amazing scenery. People have been so welcoming and friendly. (With the cool temperatures)I am imagining a life continuously lived in ugg boots!”
What has impacted Ms Harris most is how well respected Frontier Services is within the Snowy River Patrol community.
“I am impressed by the incredible reputation that my predecessor Bruce Gallacher has throughout this community. Not only was he well liked, but everyone I have spoken to knew about his work and of the work of Frontier Services.”
“It is amazing that one person can so impact upon the reputation of an organisation with such positivity and I would like to leave that sort of legacy to the ones that follow me.”
Monday’s induction will be attended by people coming from all over the state, including the Victorian High Country and Mallacoota, to witness the formal welcome. Neighbouring Frontier Services Patrol Minister Rev Dr Alison McRae, from the High Country Patrol, will be playing a part in the service.
Rev Rowena Harris will be formally inducted into the Frontier Services Snowy River Minister at the Orbost Uniting Church on 14 May at 7pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.