INFLUENTIAL leader Peter Davis bid a sad farewell to the Mount Gambier Meals on Wheels team recently as he took the next step in his career with the community-minded organisation.
Spending the past three years guiding the dedicated team in the role of regional branch support officer, Mr Davis has created change and growth that has and will continue to benefit the community.
Previously working in New South Wales, Mr Davis said he had thoroughly enjoyed his time working in the Blue Lake city for a community-based organisation.
“A lot of people are struggling and to have a service that provides not only meals but social contact is fantastic,” he said.
“I can not pinpoint one particular highlight throughout my time, but it has been great working with the committed volunteers, learning about the region and building friendships with clients.
“I was definitely sad to say goodbye to the team here, but I feel like it was the right thing to do and I will be able to contribute to the organisation in a bigger way now.”
Taking on a position in the Kent Town office in Adelaide, Mr Davis will oversee the distribution of chilled and cooked meals.
Although no longer in charge of the South East region, volunteer Gail Williams said Mr Davis’ influence will be felt for some time in the local kitchen.
“Peter made quite a few changes when he was here, including increasing the choice of meals to two,” she said.
“We know for most of our clients their independence is a bit lost and when they have a choice to make they love it.
“He also made changes with the number of cooks- the recipes are sent out every day so anyone can do it.
“It means there is less stress for the team should someone be unwell or unable to come in.”
Commending Mr Davis for his cool and calm personality, Ms Williams said he had created a much more smoothly run work environment.
“He never stressed, he thought about things logically and when asked questions, nine out of 10 times he was correct,” she said.
“It was a bit difficult for him when he first came in because no one wanted change, but everything has worked out.
“He was really good to work with and I will miss him terribly.”
