A Wonderful Turnout for Our 2025 AGM and Volunteer Celebration
- Jun 25
- 3 min read
The High Backs held its second Annual General Meeting on 2 June 2026, and what a fantastic afternoon it was.
Despite a slightly blustery day, the community came out in force to hear about everything we have achieved over the past year. Trustee and Treasurer Kim led the meeting, presenting reports on our activities and finances before everyone enjoyed a lively game of bingo and a celebration of our incredible volunteers.
There was plenty of delicious food to share as people stayed behind to chat, connect and celebrate together. A huge thank you to Big Bites Rutherglen and New Hamptons Brunch for providing such wonderful refreshments.
The Men's Group room was also open throughout the afternoon, with members enjoying their fantastic new pool table and darts board.
Getting everything ready for the AGM was an adventure in itself. Staff and volunteers worked together to erect the marquee, battling strengthening winds and making use of every available zip tie to keep things firmly in place. Thanks to everyone's teamwork and determination, the event went ahead without a hitch.
Two of our young volunteers from the Youth Activism Team played an important role in preparing for the day. They assembled the AGM packs, adding agendas and financial statements to each Achievements Summary booklet, and welcomed guests at the gate with smiles and enthusiasm.
Our founder and Project Coordinator, Lizzy McDonald, reflected on the evening:
"All the worry about folk not turning up... and then seeing the room fill with support – totally worth the stress in the end. My heart is full tonight.
Thank you for showing up for The High Backs. We smashed another AGM, and that's down to every single person who believes in what we're building here.
To our funders, thank you for investing in our wee community hub. To our community, your support and encouragement remind us why we do what we do. To our partners, thank you for growing with us. And to our Board of Trustees, your guidance and belief in our vision keep us moving forward.
Tonight showed once again that The High Backs is stronger because we stand together."
The creativity of our young people was also on display, with children from our Monday after-school club producing beautiful crafts to decorate the event.
The celebrations did not end with the AGM itself. As part of Volunteers' Week, we took the opportunity to recognise and thank the people who give so much of their time, energy and kindness to The High Backs.
From gardening and maintenance to leading groups, supporting events, managing social media and simply being a welcoming face, our volunteers help create a place where people feel seen, supported and connected. Their commitment has built a community within a community and made The High Backs a safe and welcoming space for so many.
Lizzy added:
"As a Burnhill resident, I couldn't be prouder of the community we've created together and the incredible people in it. You've shaped a community within a community, and for many, you've created a safe space that truly matters."
To every volunteer, partner, funder, trustee and community member who joined us: thank you.
Here's to another year of growing together and building an even stronger future for The High Backs.
Our 2024 Annual Report can be read on Our Impact page, with the 2025 report to be added soon.
