Relief for Gippslanders after natural disaster.
We’re a registered charity, run entirely by
local volunteers, helping fund emergency relief
for Gippslanders with damaged property.
What does
the GERF do?
When natural disaster strikes, your generous donations are distributed to eligible Gippslanders for emergency resources. From basics like food, shelter and clothing, to keeping livestock safe or education resources for kids — your donation is a welcome relief for a Gippslander in crisis.
The GERF is proudly run by volunteers, allowing us to keep expenses low and return every dollar to the community.
How is
the GERF
different?
The GERF is proudly run by volunteers, which allows us to keep expenses low and return all donations to the community — maximising our support to Gippslanders.
We act fast too. From the start of assessment, funds are in the recipient’s bank account as quickly as two days later. Our rapid response means the GERF is capable of supporting Gippslanders who fall through the cracks of other systems, particularly when timing is crucial.
Read more about the fund
Executive
committee
Andy Tegart
GERF President
Andy Tegart
GERF President
Andy has a background in fire management and emergency response in the private and public sector spanning 40 years and loves Gippsland. He is passionate about philanthropy and dedicated to ensuring transparency, ethical conduct and making a positive impact in disaster recovery for the community.
Chris Love
Vice President
Chris Love
Vice President
Heavily involved in sporting groups, community organisations and a qualified accountant, Chris has worked in management roles overseeing financial, human resources, IT and other corporate service areas. He is currently Treasurer of Traralgon Lions Club and enjoys fundraising to support locals.
Nigel Browne
Vice President
Nigel Browne
Vice President
Retired following a 43 year career in the electrical power industry in technical and management roles, Nigel has a strong sense of community and connection to Gippsland, residing with his family in Churchill. Nigel is proud to be a part of GERF and helping Gippslanders in their time of need.
Jean Murphy
Secretary / Treasurer
Jean Murphy
Secretary / Treasurer
Jean has worked in the private, local gov. and not-for-profit sector utilising a broad range of skills — financial, contract management, budgeting, and governance. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Management and is a proud Gippslander, understanding the ongoing natural disaster impact we all face.
Barry Whitehead
General Executive
Barry Whitehead
General Executive
Experienced in emergency services, apprentice training & employment, human resources and a presenter on ABC Gippsland for 25 years. Barry has a strong community ethos and is a proud volunteer of several community organisations, inc. making a difference to families in times of emergency with GERF.
Jennifer Mosse
General Executive
Jennifer Mosse
General Executive
Associate Professor working as a science academic at Federation University, Jennifer has personally experienced the short and long term impacts of bushfires on individuals and families. Her skillset includes an understanding of risk management, strategic decision making, compliance and reporting.
Peter West
General Executive
Peter West
General Executive
Peter has a strong connection and love of the bush, works for Forest Fire Management Victoria, and has been involved in Gippsland's emergency management for 30+ years, both response and recovery. As the father of an autistic son, Peter has a passion for inclusion and the rights of all Gippslanders.
Adam Hogan
General Executive
Adam Hogan
General Executive
Passionate about education, health, community and Gippsland, Adam has a background in engineering, science, and even served as a police officer. He's currently Principal of Lowanna College, with a track record of transforming schools, and supports Latrobe Regional Health in a governance capacity.
Helping
Gippsland
since 1978.
