About Bega Valley Data Collective
History of the Bega Valley Data Collective
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 meet 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.
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.
Our Mission and Objectives
The purpose of the Bega Valley Data Collective Incorporated is to provide equitable access to valuable data for our community that will enhance local decision making.
Measure
Create and maintain an accessible online place of data insights and indicators specific to the Bega Valley using the Measuring What Matters wellbeing framework.
Inform
Engage and inform our community of the advantages of using data to make evidence-based policy and program decisions that reflect our community’s values and aspirations
Stories
Publish an online place for storytelling that promotes community led initiatives that build a stronger more resilient community and enhance our quality of life.
Our Committee
We have a fantastic team of dedicated volunteers who are passionate about our community and data
Tim Whitaker – President
“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.”
Sarah Cooper – Vice President
April Merrick – Committee
“Data is just information categorised and there is an abundance of it, which can be harnessed for good, e.g. evidence to win funding, prove a known societal issue, create opportunities and so much more.”
Adam Mather – Data Analyst
“I’ve always thought that properly organised data that is displayed in a easy to digest format is the easiest way to understand what shortcomings their are, what is required and how to efficiently pursue what is needed.”
Kate Sollis – Committee
“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.”
Jenny Whitaker – Committee
John Watkin – Committee
Mick Pryke – Committee
Allan McDonald – Member
“Optimised decisions for community investment and wellbeing are achieved from analysis of relevant data. The Bega Valley Data Collective helps make that happen.”
Constitution
Download the Bega Valley Data Collective Constitution
Privacy Policy
Download the Bega Valley Data Collective Privacy Policy
Meet Our Team
Become a member of the Bega Valley Data Collective
Members get exclusive access as well as many other benefits. Membership is $50 per annum, more details by clicking below.