In 2009 Kristine and her family were on holidays in Burra and fell in love with Toolangi Homestead, just out of Hallett. Throwing caution to the wind, they bought the property and moved to the country. Kristine realistically expected to take a year to settle in – but she hadn’t counted on the warmth of the welcome from the Hallett community.
Hallett is community in the old style: friendly, helpful, ‘can do’. It wasn’t long before Kristine joined the Hallett Community and Sports Association (the town management committee), rolled up her sleeves and got involved. This has been a journey of joy.
The HCSA manages council assets in the town (recreation ground, historic hall, swimming pool), as well as running community functions like the Christmas party and Anzac Day ceremony.
Kristine’s vision for a community with a stronger and more resilient economy is reflected in Hallett’s strategic plan, which aims to attract new residents and businesses by improving town infrastructure and visitor amenities and promoting the benefits of country living.
Hallett’s strategic plan, together with sound governance and fantastic local support, has led to the town receiving over $1m in grant funds. Not bad for a community of 250 people! How did we do it? Kristine applied her long experience in community development and the learnings from her PhD – it’s a formula that works, and we’re happy to share