That’s the philosophy Aaron Wallace is bringing to the table as the new chair of the Kyabram Development Committee, which oversees the town’s Place-Based Plan — a strategic roadmap for the town's infrastructure and community services.
Stepping into the role after joining the group in 2025, Mr Wallace aims to turn his background in youth advocacy and social work into tangible results for the town.
He is already known to the masses of Living Waters Church through his highly visible role as a senior pastor.
But it’s not just the pews he wants to reach — it’s the streets.
Mr Wallace is determined to use his advocacy experience to ensure Kyabram’s youth have a seat at the table.
“Given that we work to a five-year plan — in five years, some of those young people are going to be young parents,” he said.
He also recognises the challenge of recruiting volunteers, but believes that matching people with activities they're passionate about creates more sustainable engagement.
“I think everybody has a purpose and some people know what it is and some don’t — for me, it’s to impact the lives of other people,” he said.
“I think everyone wants to make a difference, but it’s how we have a vision that’s big enough for people to get behind it.”
Overall, Mr Wallace isn’t looking to rock the boat; rather, he is hoping to build upon the established work already completed by the group under outgoing chair Tania Chiswell.
Mr Wallace acknowledged the hard work the group had done for the Kyabram community, and said he looked forward to hearing from Ms Chiswell on how to navigate the role.
“I’m really looking forward to giving it a go. I’m still learning, but I’m confident in the skills and the experience of the whole committee as well,” he said.
“We work as a team … it’s a group of people who love Ky and want to see the best for Ky.”
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