NEW CHAIR’S POSITIVE VIBE

Jay Bacik has bought a wealth of experience to the Positive Vibes Foundation as the new chairman, with more than 25 years working in the Not-For-Profit sector.

He was CEO of Life Education Australia for 15 years (who doesn’t remember Healthy Harold the giraffe mascot?) and has also held major roles with Austcare: Sydney City Mission and Diabetes Australia.

His focus is now on the Hills-based Positive Vibes Foundation and its work in removing the stigma of mental illness.

PVF has a range of programs operating in the The Hills including The Hills Women’s Shed at the Balcombe Height’s Estate which has a weekly program of activities, it’s Healthy Young Minds Forum, the canine companion program at local aged care facilites and this month’s Pawsitive Steps Towards Mental Health, Mind, Doggy and Spirit Festival (see separate story).

Mr Bacik said he was impressed by what PVF was doing as an organisation at their first meeting.

“I am a bit of a cause-hungry person myself so I like working with people who want to help.”

He left school in Year 10 and did night college before attending theological college. He became a Minister with the Churches of Christ and travelled overseas building up communities.

Now 75, he has always had a job. He says he is most impressed with “prevention component on the Positive Vibes programs.

“We don’t want to duplicate anything that is being done … we want to involve third parties. It is something we can grow.

“Life Education started on a footpath in Kings Cross and is now in 14 countries.” Mario Rodrigues said as a team they were very excited with the new appointment. “Jay has a great lot of experience and a lot of connections.”

As well as over 20 years with Macquarie Radio as broadcaster and presenter, Mr Bacik has recently been appointed to the State Parole Authority Board.

DIARY DATES
• PAWSITIVE STEPS
• Mind, Doggy, Spirit Festival. Sunday, September 29, 11am to 3pm Castle Hill Showground
• The Hills Women’s Shed has a weekly program of activities visit its Facebook page.
• Positive Vibes Masquerade Ball Friday, October 11, Bivianos Dural.
• Young Healthy Minds Forum April 4, 2020 Pioneer Theatre Castle Hill