Hi, I'm Clare Richards, Housing Solutions Broker, at Mount Alexander Shire Council.

Keep reading for an update on some of Council's recent work in the affordable housing area.

Meet the Mount Alexander Affordable Housing Trust Advisory Committee Members

I am excited to share more information about the people who were appointed to our advisory committee for the Mount Alexander Affordable Housing Trust.

The committee members are working with Council as we prepare to recruit a Trustee company to lead the Mount Alexander Affordable Housing Trust. Further information will be available on Council's website in the next month.

Our newly appointed Affordable Housing Trust Advisory Committee members bring deep experience and varied perspectives to the table. I am pleased to introduce them to you:

Laura Keogh

Laura Keogh is a dedicated community advocate and business owner with over 20 years in the region. Through her launderette, she supports local groups by offering sponsorships, marketing, and free access to space and services. She partners with Orange Sky to assist those facing housing insecurity. Laura’s experience at Castlemaine Health deepened her understanding of homelessness and the need for affordable housing. Since 2021, she’s created a safe, welcoming space for vulnerable individuals. Passionate about community-driven solutions, Laura joined The Mount Alexander Affordable Housing Trust Advisory Committee to ensure everyone has access to safe, affordable housing.

Jacqui Watt

Jacqui Watt is an experienced leader in organisational development, specialising in leadership coaching, team building, and strategic reform. Jacqui has held senior leadership roles in community housing in Scotland, the UK and Victoria. With skills in coaching senior executives, building effective teams and strengthening organisational strategy, she can work effectively with change processes and systemic reform. Jacqui understands service delivery in Housing, Children and Family Services, as well as government policy across local, state, and federal levels. Her insights into the challenges facing both government and the not-for-profit sector in Australia inform her practical, impactful approach.

Liam Wilkinson

Liam Wilkinson is a seasoned urban planner with over 15 years of experience in strategic planning and leadership roles within Local Government. He is passionate about advancing sustainable and affordable housing solutions and has hands-on expertise in negotiating and facilitating new affordable housing developments. A committed community member and Castlemaine resident, Liam lives with his young family and actively contributes to local life, including as a player and committee member of the Castlemaine Football Netball Club. His professional and personal dedication to community wellbeing drives his work in creating inclusive, resilient urban environments.

Natasha Williams

Natasha Williams is the CEO of Golden City Support Services, a registered provider operating across Bendigo, Echuca, and Gisborne. With decades of experience in the disability sector, Natasha is a practical and creative leader known for delivering effective solutions and interpreting NDIS legislation to achieve best outcomes. She is tertiary qualified with a strong background in executive operational management and workforce leadership. Embracing her own neurodiversity, Natasha brings a unique focus to person-centred practice. She is committed to the Person-Centred Active Support (PCAS) approach and is highly regarded for her leadership in quality, safeguarding, strategy, and day-to-day operations.

Delphine Laboureau-Ormancey

Delphine Laboureau-Ormancey is a long-time resident of Mount Alexander Shire, having migrated from Paris to Newstead in 1991. With over 30 years of housing experience, she brings deep knowledge of the sector, including co-housing, private rentals, and community-led initiatives. Delphine is actively involved in My Home Network and the Mount Alexander Affordable Housing Trust Advisory Committee. A teacher and environmentalist, she is passionate about sustainable living and community solutions. Her background includes residential and commercial leasing law, not-for-profit governance, and financial management. Delphine is committed to creating affordable, inclusive housing options for the Shire’s future.

Gary McClure

Gary McClure is a lifelong Castlemaine resident with over 50 years of experience in the civil construction industry, including land development, infrastructure design, and project management. A qualified civil engineer and member of Engineers Australia, Gary served four years on council and brings valuable insight into council operations and community engagement. Passionate about affordable housing, Gary supports the Mount Alexander Affordable Housing Trust, leveraging his extensive networks and industry expertise. He has also contributed to several not-for-profit boards and remains committed to improving housing outcomes for vulnerable residents.