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.

About us…

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 we've helped
About us…

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

Jean Murphy

Secretary

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.

Adam Hogan

Treasurer

Adam Hogan

Treasurer

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.

Rupert Scott

General Executive

Rupert Scott

General Executive

Recently graduating from the University of Melbourne, Rupert has a lifelong connection to Gippsland through his family. With experience across finance and marketing roles he is eager to expand his skills while contributing to the local Gippsland community and make a meaningful impact.

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.

Fiona Jago

General Executive

Fiona Jago

General Executive

Fiona has a strong connection to Gippsland having grown up in South Gippsland. Having lost property in the Black Summer Bushfires has a keen interest in assisting with recovery and resilience.

Glen McColl

General Executive

Glen McColl

General Executive

A proud local, Glen has spent most of his life and career in Gippsland. After 20 years in engineering, he's transitioned into economic development to focus on shaping a thriving region for generations to come, building a prosperous future for his two sons and the wider Gippsland community.

Mark Vitlin

General Executive

Mark Vitlin

General Executive

Long term Gippslander, Mark has senior experience in communication, engagement, and marketing in the not-for-profit, government and private sector. He has research and university teaching experience, and has worked in local government during natural disasters.