Who are we?
About us
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Our Mission
Progress Associations are local resident associations owned and run by their members.
Any resident within the City of Willoughby is entitled to and welcome to become a member of their local progress association.
Willoughby South Progress Association is an apolitical, not-for-profit community organisation who’s mission is to promote the welfare, interests and advancement of all Willoughby South ratepayers and residents regardless of gender, age, ability, race, religion or sexual orientation.
“There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.”
– Margaret J. Wheatley
A brief history of the Willoughby South Progress Association
“Living memory suggests WSPA existed in the last century, but no one can remember much before the early 90s, when a wave of discontent in the form of new members overwhelmed office bearers at the time.”
– Former Councillor June Jorgensen and her friend, Beryl.
The cause of the discontent was a Council proposal to lease Hallstrom Park to Gordon Rugby Club, land which was said to have been gifted to the people by the eccentric industrialist owner of the Silent Knight refrigerator company, Sir Edward Hallstrom (he was also the manager of Taronga Park Zoo in the 1950s and had a private zoo at Figtree Point in Northbridge).
Since then, the Association has done its best to represent the views of local residents as threats and opportunities arise, particularly those where Willoughby Council is the key player.
Recently, for example, we advocated for reestablishment of Council’s Advisory Committees and now – as individuals – we have members on the following committees:
- Sustainability
- Built Heritage
- Flat Rock Gully
Our patch comprises part of Council’s Sailors Bay Ward.
Current Councillors are Hugh Erickson, John Moratelli and Roy McCullough, they are always invited and generally attend our meetings.
WSPA is a member if the Federation of Willoughby Progress Associations (FWPA) and enjoys good relationships with neighbour Associations Artarmon and Naremburn.
Know Your Local History
Aims
- Promote community cohesion and engagement within the Willoughby South area
- Advocate for the improvement of local infrastructure, amenities, and services.
- Foster a sense of pride and ownership among residents towards the development and maintenance of the Willoughby South neighbourhood
- Facilitate communication and collaboration between residents, local businesses, and government bodies for the betterment of the community
- Enhance the quality of life for residents by addressing issues related to safety, environment, and social well-being
- Monitor and address issues related to traffic, parking, and infrastructure maintenance to improve the overall liveability of the area.
Objectives
- Provide platforms for residents to voice their concerns, suggestions, and ideas for improving the neighbourhood.
- Maintain open communication channels through newsletters, social media, and community meetings to keep residents informed and engaged.
- Lobby local authorities and stakeholders for enhancing public spaces, parks, and recreational facilities.
- Implement initiatives to promote sustainability and environmental stewardship within the community.
- Organise regular community events and activities to encourage interaction and networking among residents.
WSPA Committee Members
Wayne Farmilo
President
Architect & General Creative. A 25–year resident of Willoughby Supportive of all that is good & growing in Willoughby South.
Tony Tenney
Vice President & 272 Editor
A local activist on the Northern Beaches before moving to Willoughby South in 2019, Tony is a member of WEPA and has been a member and walks leader of the NSW National Parks Association for over 40 years.
Don Swonell
Vice President
An ex-WCC employee who recently retired. No one knows Flat Rock Gully like this bush care poet and lifetime thespian.
Bob Taffel
Public Officer
WSPA’s leading light – a living treasure – instigator, negotiator, barefoot engineer and bush carer. All round nice guy, the neighbour we all would want.
Tim Roche
Treasurer
Tim is one of our busiest residents. He has a young family and is living IN his current home renovation, the site of his thriving IT consultancy. He generously shares his good humour & facility with numbers.
Kate Lamb
Secretary
Opinionated, long-term resident, retired from health policy work, WCC Councillor ‘92 – 2012 keen on environment, social justice.
Kristina Dodds
Committee Member
Lifetime resident of Willoughby and the lower North Shore, lover of all things nature, globe trotter & campaigning maestro.
Ken Wilson
Committee Member
Resident for 30 years, amateur musician, IT specialist, public transport activist, bike rider & student.
Want to be an influence in your area?
Become a member and start creating the change you want to see.
Our Values
Value 1
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Value 2
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Value 3
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