Media Statement

Immediate Release

Interview Opportunities: Foodbank WA CEO, Kate O’Hara


Foodbank WA and Glencore’s – Murrin Murrin Operations partner to strengthen food relief in Leonora 

Foodbank WA is proud to announce a new partnership with Glencore’s – Murrin Murrin Operations, marking a significant milestone in collaborative food relief efforts across Western Australia’s Goldfields region. 

The Glencore partnership is the result of extensive collaboration, shared commitment and sustained effort between multiple organisations, coming together to deliver a long‑term, sustainable emergency food solution for the Leonora community. Murrin Murrin Operations General Manager Adrian Herbert said “We are pleased to partner with Foodbank WA to support improved food security for the Leonora community. Establishing the Leonora emergency food pantry aligns with our focus on supporting practical, community‑driven initiatives in our host communities. This project has been made possible through strong collaboration, and we recognise the efforts of all organisations involved.” 

The first official Foodbank WA delivery has now arrived in Leonora, with the emergency food pantry securing a permanent home at Waalitj’s Leonora Hub. This locally based model ensures food relief is accessible, community-focused and embedded where it is needed most. 

In addition to the assistance from Glencore, an important part of the initiative has been Genesis, who have generously stepped in to freight all food supplies to Leonora. Their support enables regular deliveries to an otherwise logistically challenging, remote region, ensuring continuity and reliability of food supply. Add in Genesis Quote Genesis Minerals CEO Matt Nixon says “We are proud to support the community of Leonora and Foodbank with this initiative. This delivery seeks to ensure no family in Leonora will go without access to something to eat when they need it the most” .

“This partnership is a powerful example of what’s possible when organisations come together with a shared commitment to community,” said Foodbank WA CEO Kate O’Hara. “The establishment of apermanent emergency food pantry in Leonora means local families have reliable access to food support close to home, delivered in a way that respects and reflects the community. We are deeply grateful to Glencore’s – Murrin Murrin Operations, Genesis and Waalitj Foundation for their collaboration and leadership in helping make this sustainable solution a reality.” 

Lisa Cunningham, CEO Waalitj Foundation echoed the sentiment saying, “Waalitj Foundation has been part of the Leonora community since 2019, and during this time we have seen first‑hand how food insecurity and unaffordability impacts community wellbeing. 

We are proud to partner with Foodbank WA to deliver sustainable, locally based support and help alleviate some of the unique pressures faced by remote residents.” 

The initiative will support individuals and families across the region, alongside complementary programs including Foodbank WA’s School Breakfast Program, which currently supports the School Breakfast Program for the region at Leonora District High School who have 70 students registered for the Program five days a week – an increase of 130% in the last five years.   

Socio economic disadvantage is a defining feature across this region. With limited access to education, employment, food security, income, housing, and other essential services that underpin community wellbeing, which is where the collaboration with Waalitj Foundation and the services they provide will further strengthen local impact. 

Foodbank WA has been overwhelmed by the level of goodwill, collaboration and shared purpose shown by all partners involved in bringing this initiative to life. 

Following the successful establishment of the emergency food pantry in Laverton, which after one year is now firmly embedded within the community, Foodbank WA looks forward to seeing the same long‑term impact and community ownership develop in Leonora. 


Media contact:  
Kath Robinson | Brand and Engagement Manager 
kath.robinson@foodbankwa.org.au | 08 9463 3806 | 0414 558 957


About Foodbank WA

Hello, we’re Foodbank WA. We believe everyone should have access to healthy food. There are Western Australians going without every day, and we are working hard to change that. 

We provide food and groceries to those who struggle to afford them. We also deliver nutrition education to promote healthy eating and advocate on behalf of people that experience hunger and food insecurity. 

We are here to support Western Australians in times of need. We do this through: 

  • Providing 9.3 million meals last financial year to those who were doing it tough 
  • Distributing food and groceries through 550 frontline charities 
  • Providing breakfast and fruit to 550 schools feeding 27,300 children weekly 
  • Delivering nutrition education attendances to over 6,546 children, adults and parents  

We work with farmers, wholesalers, manufactures and retailers who donate and redirect surplus product to us. This also plays a vital role in tackling food waste and positively contributes to climate change by reducing CO2 emissions arising from landfill. 

Our purpose is to Feed. Educate. Advocate.

Media Statement

Immediate Release

Interview Opportunities: Foodbank WA CEO, Kate O’Hara


$500,000 funding boost help Foodbank keep moving food across Western Australia

Foodbank WA has welcomed a $500,000 funding boost from the Cook Labor Government to help us manage rising fuel and freight costs and continue delivering food to communities across Western Australia.

The funding forms part of a $3.8 million State Government package supporting food relief services as global fuel prices place increasing pressure on transport and logistics. 

Treasurer Rita Saffioti said the targeted support was about helping Western Australians who need it most, recognising the essential role food relief organisations play for people doing it tough and providing certainty so services can continue during challenging times.

The investment will help Foodbank WA offset higher freight costs and keep essential food moving to charities, schools and community organisations, including those supporting people in regional and remote areas.

Community Services Minister Matthew Swinbourn said food relief organisations are on the frontline of rising demand, with increasing fuel and logistics costs impacting both their operations and the suppliers who donate food. 

He said the funding would help ensure providers like Foodbank WA can continue delivering essential services right across the State, including to regional and remote communities, so people can access the basic essentials they need when they need them. 

Foodbank WA CEO Kate O’Hara was pleased with the announcement saying that “when it comes to moving food around Western Australia, we know exactly how many kilometres it takes. Our food relief network is unique as it stretches from as far north as Kalumburu, using two trucks and a barge, across to border towns like Blackstone and right down to Esperance, and everywhere in between. 

To move 5.5 million kilos of food each year, we rely on 18 third-party logistics partners and a fleet of 23 vehicles. Keeping those wheels turning is essential for Western Australians doing it tough. 

We are incredibly grateful to the State Government for this support. With fuel and freight costs rising so sharply, there was a real risk to our ability to keep food moving at the scale required. This funding gives us certainty and helps ensure people across the state can continue to access the food they need.” 

The support follows consultation through the State Government’s Industry Support Working Group and reflects the importance of maintaining equitable access to food relief across Western Australia’s vast geography. 


Media contact:  
Kath Robinson | Brand and Engagement Manager 
kath.robinson@foodbankwa.org.au | 08 9463 3806 | 0414 558 957

About Foodbank WA

Hello, we’re Foodbank WA. We believe everyone should have access to healthy food. There are Western Australians going without every day, and we are working hard to change that. 

We provide food and groceries to those who struggle to afford them. We also deliver nutrition education to promote healthy eating and advocate on behalf of people that experience hunger and food insecurity. 

We are here to support Western Australians in times of need. We do this through: 

  • Providing 9.3 million meals last financial year to those who were doing it tough 
  • Distributing food and groceries through 550 frontline charities 
  • Providing breakfast and fruit to 550 schools feeding 27,300 children weekly 
  • Delivering nutrition education attendances to over 6,546 children, adults and parents  

We work with farmers, wholesalers, manufactures and retailers who donate and redirect surplus product to us. This also plays a vital role in tackling food waste and positively contributes to climate change by reducing CO2 emissions arising from landfill. 

Our purpose is to Feed. Educate. Advocate.

Feedback that fuels us

Customers shopping at a Mobile Foodbank location

Receiving feedback from our charity partners about the impact of our work is always incredibly rewarding.

It’s a privilege to support organisations that are making a real difference in their communities every day. 

Recently, several partners shared how Foodbank WA is helping them extend their reach and strengthen their services.

Bridgeley Church of Christ 

Bridgeley Community Centre continues to play a vital role in delivering food relief across Northam and the wider Wheatbelt region, where many individuals and families are facing increasing financial pressure due to the rising cost of living.

Foodbank WA has been instrumental in ensuring that people in crisis can access essential food support. By providing regular deliveries, Foodbank helps significantly reduce the cost of delivering these services, allowing Bridgeley to maximise its impact across the region.”

Through a combination of food hampers, frozen meals, and essential care items, the Centre offers immediate relief while also connecting people to longer-term support services. From its base in Northam, Bridgeley Community Centre operates as a critical hub, supporting not only local residents but also more than 36 towns across the Wheatbelt, including remote communities.

The impact is substantial. In the past year alone, they say our services have helped deliver food relief to over 2,500 people in the region. “Notably, around 67% of those supported are First Nations people, highlighting the importance of accessible and culturally inclusive food assistance”.

Bridgeley summarised their gratitude simply: Foodbank’s support is fundamental to the continuation and growth of their service. 


Frank Konecny Community Centre 

“At the Frank Konecny Community Centre, the Agency Pantry has become an essential resource in supporting people when they need it most.

The ability to source food at reduced cost compared to supermarkets means that donated funds can go much further enabling the centre to assist more people across their community. As cost-of-living pressures continue to rise, this support has never been more important.

The team shared that the pantry allows them to meet people “where they’re at,” providing immediate, practical help during difficult times. Its impact is felt not only in the efficiency of service delivery but, more importantly, in the lives of those receiving support.” 


Serpentine Jarrahdale Community Resource Centre 

“As the only not-for-profit charity in its region offering a broad range of services, the Serpentine Jarrahdale Community Resource Centre is a lifeline for many local individuals and families. Our Foodbank Pantry plays a critical role in enabling this work.

With access to essential food supplies, the centre can respond quickly and directly to community members experiencing hardship. Recent examples highlight just how important this support is:

  • A grandmother, already living week to week, suddenly became the primary carer for her five grandchildren. Foodbank supplies helped provide immediate relief through essential groceries.
  • A homeless mother with twin children currently living in their car was supported with vital food items during an incredibly challenging period.
  • A 16-year-old volunteer living away from home without income has received pantry support while being assisted to access Youth Allowance.

    In addition, the centre supports seniors in the community and works closely with school chaplains assisting families facing food insecurity across local schools.

The team expressed deep appreciation for the partnership, noting that Foodbank enables them to provide support with dignity, care, and responsiveness – ensuring no one in their community is left behind.”

These stories are a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through strong partnerships. Together, we are not just providing food – we are helping build resilience, restore dignity, and create pathways to longer-term support for those who need it most. 

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Step into the kitchen: 

Meal Makers returns this August 

Participants holding trays of food at Meal Makers 2025.

Foodbank WA is inviting a limited number of corporate teams to take part in Meal Makers,

a unique, hands-on kitchen experience running from 10 to 14 August

With strong demand already, places are filling quickly, and Friday 14 August is now fully booked with an additional date put in place due to high demand on 7 August. 

More than a typical volunteering activity, Meal Makers offers teams the opportunity to step into the Foodbank WA kitchen and work together in a meaningful and practical way.

More than a typical volunteering activity, Meal Makers offers teams the opportunity to step into the Foodbank WA kitchen and work together in a meaningful and practical way. Participants cook, collaborate and problem-solve using ingredients sourced directly from Foodbank’s shop and community garden, gaining a deeper understanding of food relief in action.

The experience concludes at 12.30pm with a powerful moment – Foodbank clients are invited to enjoy tastings of the meals prepared by participating teams. For many, this opportunity to connect directly with the people supported through Foodbank’s services is both grounding and deeply rewarding.

Over recent years, Meal Makers has grown into a highly sought-after program. Fridays have evolved into “industry days”, where organisations from the same sector cook side by side, while other sessions continue to book out well in advance. Some teams even invite a friendly competitor to join them, adding a fun and motivating dynamic to the day.

As one participant shared:

“It was a wonderful experience from start to finish – especially being given the opportunity to meet the clients and volunteers. We came straight back to the office and spent the rest of the day talking about it.”

Each team can include up to five participants, whether staff, leadership or key clients. There is no registration fee and no requirement to fundraise just a valuable opportunity to connect purpose with action in a tangible and memorable way.

Meal Makers is intentionally kept small to ensure a meaningful experience for all involved. With limited availability remaining, teams are encouraged to register their interest early to secure their preferred date.

Register your interest and view available dates

We look forward to welcoming the Meal Makers teams into the kitchen this August. 

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Supporting healthy food choices in the Central Wheatbelt 

Nom! participants enjoying the meal together after the session,

Foodbank WA recently spent time in the Central Wheatbelt region delivering nom! sessions, with the support of Arc Infrastructure.

Across March and April, we delivered a three‑session nom! Adults program in York.

Nine participants took part and engagement was strong throughout. Feedback highlighted the welcoming environment and the practical nature of the sessions: 

“The information, the experience shared, and the friendly atmosphere” and “Very helpful for the budget‑conscious. Great recipes too.” 

Participants shared ongoing learnings around meal planning, reducing food waste, mindful eating and building confidence to try new foods and recipes. 

In April, we also delivered a nom! Youth session in partnership with Avon Community Services. Ten young people aged 12 to 18 took part in a relaxed session that created space to build food literacy through talking about healthy eating and cooking together in a social setting. 

In May, we returned to the Central Wheatbelt region to deliver school‑based nom! Kids sessions at York District High School. These nutrition education and cooking sessions supported students to build food knowledge, practical skills and confidence in a fun and engaging way. 

We are proud to continue working alongside Arc Infrastructure to support healthier food choices for communities across regional Western Australia. 

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Shop with purpose:

Introducing our new virtual food drive 

A food basket featuring the Foodbank logo, filled with essential food staples.

As winter sets in, the need for food relief across Western Australia rises – and this season, 

we are inviting our corporate partners to make a meaningful difference in a simple, modern way.

Introducing our Virtual Food Drive for Winter – an innovative approach that allows workplaces to come together and support those doing it tough, without the need for physical collections or logistics. No boxes, no transport – just real, tangible impact. 

Through our easy-to-use Virtual Food Drive platform, teams can “shop” for symbolic grocery items, from a basic grocery bag to a full trolley. 

Every contribution is translated directly into food and essential supplies, distributed to individuals and families across WA. It’s a powerful way to combine purpose with team engagement, all while helping people facing increased cost-of-living pressures during the colder months.

For organisations that prefer a more traditional approach, we continue to offer full support for physical food drives. Whether you’re collecting donations in your workplace, organising a community drive, or combining both virtual and physical contributions, our team is here to provide the guidance, resources, and logistics to make your efforts seamless and impactful.

One of the key advantages of the Virtual Food Drive is flexibility. It enables us to source and distribute food where it’s needed most, respond in real time to local demand, and ensure dignified access to nutritious food for communities right across the state.

There are several ways your organisation can help make a difference; Launch a Virtual Food Drive with your team, organise a workplace or community food drive or combine both for even greater impact. 

Register your Virtual Food Drive today

If you would like any more information or support, contact: fundraising@foodbankwa.org.au

Together, we can help ensure no West Australian goes hungry this winter. 

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Partnership in action with Glencore in the Goldfields 

Foodbank WA partners holding food staples.

Foodbank WA is proud to partner

with Glencore’s – Murrin Murrin Operations, alongside the Waalitj Foundation and Genesis Minerals, to strengthen access to food relief across Western Australia’s Goldfields communities. 

This collaboration reflects a shared, long-term commitment to supporting people experiencing food insecurity in remote and regional areas. 

In Leonora, emergency food relief is now delivered through Waalitj’s Leonora Hub, a locally based, community-led model that ensures access to food is not only reliable, but also dignified, culturally appropriate and embedded within the community.

A critical enabler of this work has been the support of Genesis Minerals, who are providing freight for food supplies into Leonora. In a region where distance and logistics present ongoing challenges, this contribution makes consistent deliveries possible and helps ensure continuity, reliability and scale of food access.

Building on this strong foundation, we have been able to extend our reach further across the Goldfields. With the support of Northern Star Resources, food was recently delivered into Wiluna, helping ensure families in this remote community can access essential food and groceries closer to home.

Together, these partnerships highlight what can be achieved when industry, community organisations work collaboratively side by side with us.

By combining local knowledge, on-the-ground capability and logistical support, we are strengthening food security, supporting communities to thrive, and delivering meaningful, practical outcomes across the Goldfields region.

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Building Dalyellup together: 

a community-led approach
to lasting impact 

Foodbank WA staff at the Dalyellup branch.

Foodbank WA has reinforced its commitment to genuine community-led development

through its second consultation for the Dalyellup facility, placing local voices at the heart of the project’s evolution.

The consultation is part of an ongoing engagement process designed not simply to inform, but to actively involve the community in shaping the future of the site. 

Residents, stakeholders and sector partners came together to hear the latest updates, ask questions and provide input, ensuring the project continues to reflect local needs, priorities and expectations.

Rather than a one-way communication exercise, the consultation process has been deliberately structured as a two-way dialogue. Feedback gathered during these sessions is being used to refine the development, affirming our commitment to building a service that is not only functional, but also meaningful and responsive to the people it will serve.

This collaborative approach recognises that community insight is critical to delivering lasting impact. By engaging early and consistently, we are working to ensure the Dalyellup facility integrates seamlessly into the local environment while strengthening existing support networks. 

The project itself represents a new model of service delivery, bringing together food relief and wraparound services in a mixed retail setting alongside trusted partners.

However, the way the project is being developed is just as important as the model itself. The consultation process reflects a broader shift toward co-design, where communities play an active role in shaping the services intended to support them.

Local participation has already demonstrated strong interest in the development and a clear willingness to contribute to its design. Community members and partner organisations alike have voiced support for the project, highlighting its potential to improve accessibility to essential services while fostering a greater sense of connection.

Key partners, including Financial Wellbeing Collective and Youth Focus, have also engaged through the consultation process, ensuring alignment between service delivery and community need. Their involvement not only enhances the range of supports available but also strengthens collaboration across the sector at a local level.

Importantly, the consultation process has helped build transparency and trust. By openly sharing progress, timelines and decisions, we are ensuring the community remains informed and involved at every stage. This approach helps mitigate uncertainty and provides reassurance that the development is being delivered with both accountability and care.

As the project moves into the construction phase, with Perkins Builders now established on site, community engagement will remain a central focus. Ongoing consultation will continue to provide opportunities for input and feedback, reinforcing the shared ownership of the development.

Ultimately, the Dalyellup facility is being shaped not just for the community, but with it. Through sustained engagement and collaboration, we are laying the foundation for a space that reflects local identity, supports diverse needs and fosters dignity, connection and long-term wellbeing.

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Supporting Ryan’s journey to the Special Olympics Nationals 

Ryan playing bowling.

Many of you will already know Ryan Underwood, who has been a valued volunteer with us since 2022.

Ryan’s positive attitude, determination and willingness to challenge himself have made a lasting impression on our team and community.

Despite living with a vision impairment, Ryan consistently pushes beyond limits and pursues his passions with remarkable dedication. 

He is an accomplished athlete, competing as a tenpin bowler and having also represented Western Australia in basketball. His commitment to sport is not only a personal achievement but an inspiration to those around him.

Ryan has recently been selected to represent Western Australia at the Special Olympics National Games, which will be held in Melbourne this October. This is a significant milestone and well-deserved recognition of his years of hard work and perseverance in tenpin bowling.

Ryan’s love of the sport began at just nine years old. Over time, bowling has become an important part of his life, helping him build confidence, skill and community. His achievements include numerous medals and trophies, as well as opportunities to compete at both state and international levels. Notably, Ryan has represented Western Australia and Australia in disability sports and competed twice at the Vision Impaired World Championships.

As Ryan shares in his own words: “If I could bowl every day I would.”

To make the journey to Melbourne possible, Ryan is currently fundraising to cover the costs associated with competing at the National Games. This includes travel, accommodation and competition expenses.

We would love to support Ryan as he takes this exciting next step. If you are able to contribute, even a small donation can make a meaningful difference.

Let’s come together to cheer Ryan on as he represents Western Australia on the national stage – we wish him every success in Melbourne 

Support Ryan’s fundraising

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Going above and beyond 

Foodbank WA hamper

Recently, our Kalgoorlie team came together to support an elderly gentleman during his first visit to our branch – 

demonstrating the care, teamwork and community spirit that define what we do

The client, unfamiliar with how the shop operates, was warmly welcomed and guided through the process. He was encouraged to collect a trolley from outside and take his time shopping, with reassurance that assistance was available if needed.

After more than an hour, it became clear that the gentleman was still in the branch and appeared to be struggling. One of our volunteers, Michelle, quickly noticed and asked another team member to assist him on the shop floor. With support, he was able to complete his shopping and make his way to the weighbridge.

During checkout, Michelle kindly asked how he planned to get his groceries home. The gentleman, who was using a mobility scooter, explained that he was waiting for his daughter but had been unable to reach her. It also became evident that he was experiencing some memory difficulties and was unsure of his home address.

Recognising the situation, Michelle spoke with the team to find a solution. After confirming his details, arrangements were made to ensure he could safely return home with his groceries. With approval, the team stepped in – packing his shopping and organising a delivery.

Two team members then personally delivered his groceries while he began making his way home on his scooter. Along the way, his daughter met him and the team extended their support by offering her a lift home while he continued his journey.

This situation is a wonderful example of our values in action. From recognising when someone needed extra help, to problem-solving as a team and going above and beyond to ensure a safe outcome, every step reflected compassion, initiative and collaboration.

We’re proud of the way our staff and volunteers worked together to support this customer in his time of need – showing that our impact goes far beyond providing food and into truly caring for our community. 

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