A legacy of connection: Kerry-Anne McVeigh retires after 21 years of service

As the driving force behind the Council’s Community Bus Service and Social Programs, Kerry-Anne has spent more than two decades ensuring our older and sometimes vulnerable residents remain connected and supported.

A passion for community

Kerry-Anne’s journey with the Council began after she finished university and worked for a large aged care organisation.

Reflecting on what drew her to the role, she notes, “I enjoy meeting and helping people living in the local community. I was drawn to the Council as the opportunity presented a lot of variety and fulfilled my desires to be creative, to research and write programs of activities for older people”.

Throughout her tenure, Kerry-Anne transformed the Community Bus service, implementing critical safety procedures and restructuring the excursion program to ensure equity of access.

She took pride in moving beyond repetitive destinations in a shift to diversity of experiences.

“I deliberately created a program of activities where I selected destinations or lunch venues that participants are unlikely to visit on their own. It’s wonderful—and rewarding—to hear a resident say they were excited to go somewhere different”.

Above and beyond

Kerry-Anne’s commitment often went beyond her formal duties. Whether jumping in to drive a shopping run or helping the Citizen Services team during the COVID-19 pandemic, her focus has always remained squarely to the well-being of residents.

“I derive a lot of enjoyment from being able to help,” she says. “Residents also look forward to the social connection with other people on the bus—it can be the highlight of their week. I genuinely like the company of our older people; they’re interesting people who often have fascinating stories to tell”.

Her people-centred approach also extended to the team of Volunteers, whom she supported with regular contact, training and even practical resources like wet weather jackets to ensure they felt comfortable and valued.

The spirit of volunteering

Even outside of work, Kerry-Anne is a familiar face in the community, volunteering for the Council’s dog walking and Green Connections programs, and driving floats in the Norwood Christmas Pageant.

For Kerry-Anne, giving back is second nature.

“Volunteering in any role you're genuinely interested in, is easy. The Norwood Christmas Pageant is one of my favourite volunteering opportunities. it makes me feel happy watching everyone else enjoy the event and the ‘buzz’ lasts long after the event has finished”.

A lasting legacy

As she prepared for her final day, Kerry-Anne reflected on the bonds she has built with her team.

While the Community Services team is sad to see her go, she cherishes the support they shared.

“I will miss the debriefs with my colleagues,” she admits. “These sessions have kept me grounded, nurtured and heard”.

Regarding the impact of her 21-year career, her hope is simple.

“Above all I hope the residents will have happy memories of my time at the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters—that they reminisce about places they’ve been to and the people they were able to meet”.

The next chapter

Kerry-Anne’s retirement is set to be anything but quiet. She plans to continue volunteering with the Council’s Place Activation and Sustainability programs, while also spending time in her garden and visiting family interstate.

“I’m a proud Nannie to three grandchildren with another on the way, and I’m looking forward to spending more quality time with them all,” she shares.

The Council thanks Kerry-Anne for her professionalism, care and dedication, and we wish her all the best in her next chapter while looking forward to her continued involvement as a valued Volunteer.