The Bega Valley Data Collective (BVDC) is a volunteer led, not-for-profit community group and a registered charity.

Our mission is to empower our community to thrive together through a community wellbeing framework based on collaboration, data, and action.

Our vision is a thriving Bega Valley, where evidence and collective action is used to ensure enduring wellbeing for all its people, places and environments.

Our work is guided by four interconnected pillars, ensuring a holistic and sustainable approach to community wellbeing across the Bega Valley.

Community-Led Wellbeing

We commit to actively collaborating with Bega Valley residents to define, measure, and continuously evolve a wellbeing framework that truly reflects local values and aspirations. This grassroots approach ensures our understanding of ‘living well’ comes directly from the community it serves.

Data for Action

We will transform fragmented data into tangible, actionable insights, developing innovative and inclusive digital tools—such as interactive dashboards and accessible polling—to empower residents to advocate for positive change and secure access to vital local information.

Partnership & Knowledge Sharing

We aim to foster a robust network of collaborative partnerships with organisations, agencies, and individuals, proactively sharing data and insights. By building these alliances, we amplify our collective impact and enable shared wellbeing goals across the Bega Valley.

Organisational Viability

We are dedicated to building a sustainable and resilient Bega Valley Data Collective, ensuring diverse income streams, a strong volunteer base, and the capacity to grow. This commitment secures our long-term ability to serve the community effectively.

We have a fantastic team of dedicated volunteers who are passionate about our community and data.

From left to right:

Adam Mather – Data Analyst

“I’ve always thought that properly organised data that is displayed in an easy to digest format is the easiest way to understand what shortcomings there are, what is required and how to efficiently pursue what is needed.

 Kate Sollis – President

“By gaining a deeper understanding of what truly matters to those in our community, we can create more meaningful change now and into the future.” 

Tim Whitaker – Treasurer 

“Our community has its own story, data can transform that story into a powerful narrative that allows people at all levels of our community to be able to participate in decision-making.”

 April Merrick – Vice President

“Data is just information categorised, and there is an abundance of it which can be harnessed for good – evidence to win funding, prove a known societal issue, create opportunities and so much more.” 

Robert Spinks – Youth Wellbeing

“Emerging technology provides the opportunity for a sustainable future where every person leads a dignified, healthy and happy life. I want to ensure that community leaders and decision makers have the best possible information to make this a reality.”

 Shelene Bailey – Secretary (Not in the photo)

“Data provides the insights we need to take informed action, helping us build a more empowered, connected, and resilient community.”

The initial idea behind the Bega Valley Data Collective emerged in March 2022, the idea was born in an environment of post Black Summer Bushfires and the Covid pandemic. In this environment the need for equitable access to data for our community was paramount and a movement to achieve this began.

People who were enthusiastic about our community and data formed a working group and met regularly to define our objectives on how we can use data to benefit our community in the Bega Valley.

In May 2022 we received seed funding from the Bega Valley Shire Council to help with formation costs. In June 2022 the Bega Valley Data Collective was registered with NSW Fair Trading as an incorporation and in July our website was launched.

Our new and unique approach of providing community support did not fit with most funding guidelines which reaffirmed our view of a bottom up , not a top down approach to community decision making. We continued to fine tune our objectives and build our network to where it is today.

The working group met in November 2023 to hold our inaugural AGM where our new object and constitution was approved, and a committee elected.

In November 2023 we commenced the “Measuring What Matters in the Bega Valley” project with funds to deliver the service provided by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal Investing in Rural Communities Futures Program.

In November 2024 we launched the “Living Well in the Bega Valley” project which we are seeking funding to deliver.

Our future looks bright, and we are building our engagement with many of the amazing community groups and individuals that make up our diverse community.