Big loss: Ivan Lister pictured with Benalla Rural City Councillors, council staff and community members at a special afternoon tea held to honour the work he has done in the community.
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Much-loved Benalla rural outreach worker Ivan Lister will step aside from his role supporting and connecting farmers with vital services after more than 20 years.
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Mr Lister first worked in the Benalla area in his role as a drought outreach worker in 2002, and Benalla Rural City Council has contributed to funding his role as rural outreach worker since June 2016.
In this pivotal position, Ivan has delivered on-the-ground support that helps break the pattern of despair and connects rural residents with support.
He has been there to help whether people are in need of financial aid, a social worker, medical assistance or just someone to talk to.
However, Mr Lister has decided to step back from the role, in which he has helped save more than a few lives.
“Farmers take pride in being self-sufficient, but depression and isolation can sneak up on anyone,” Mr Lister said.
In his role, Mr Lister would visit residents in their own environment, providing a safe space for people to discuss their issues and concerns, and chatting about possible actions or referrals to help their situation.
Farewell: Ivan Lister and Benalla Rural City Mayor Bernie Hearn.
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When asked what a main highlight of his role was, he said just being there when people were concerned about themselves, or a loved one, and using his available networks to get them through.
“We’ve hit a few potholes and seen a few dark clouds, but I am so thankful for the opportunity to do this role in a way that I do it,” Mr Lister said.
Council manager community Jane Archbold said Mr Lister’s ability to connect with rural families was irreplaceable.
“While Ivan is ‘hanging up his hat’, he is not lost to our community,” she said.
“Ivan is a down-to-earth ‘real bloke’, who provided a link between the isolated and vulnerable with key support services.
“He leaves a legacy of hope and that there can be light after darkness.”
All smiles: Benalla Rural City Council staff Tom Arnold and Jane Archbold with Ivan Lister and Mayor Bernie Hearn.
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More than two dozen friends, supporters and network contacts farewelled Mr Lister at an afternoon tea recently at the Benalla Town Hall to thank him for his two decades of contribution.
Benalla’s Dr Paul Kelly was one of those present.
“Ivan is a genuine ‘knockabout bloke’ and we appreciate having worked with you where you have saved a number of lives,” Dr Kelly said.
Mayor Bernie Hearn thanked Ivan for his tireless contribution.
“Council gratefully acknowledges the valuable service you have provided to the community over many years,” Cr Hearn said.
In closing, Mr Lister acknowledged and thanked council and the many community members, networks and organisations for their unwavering support, and paid tribute to his wife, Jenny, for her “unpaid support”.
During the life of the project, there have been several different funding partners assisting in the provision and support of Mr Lister’s role, including Benalla Health, the Community Health Nurse and GP clinics.
Council will continue to have a focus on rural support, with the appointment of an ageing well officer delivering connection to key services; and a pilot flagship mental health program, funded by the Victorian Department of Health.
For more information on support and services available for farmers and rural residents in Benalla Rural City, visit www.benalla.vic.gov.au
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