Michelle Harris has more than 15 year’s management experience in the community and recreation industry for both private management companies, as well as directly for Local Government. She has excellent communication skills in dealing with the diverse range of stakeholders and community members to bring about effective partnerships and results. She is experienced in conflict resolution and in the facilitation of public meetings, workshops, conducting stakeholder interviews and the completion of survey work using various mediums.
Michelle has a passion for working with the community and in assisting Sporting Clubs to realise their true potential. She has had extensive involvement in community and recreation planning and project development through her position as business owner of Hands On Community Solutions. Michelle recently completed the original strategic plan for the club and understands the clubs needs in great detail.
With significant prior experience in a Local Government Senior Management role, Michelle understands the local context, the challenges of providing community facilities and the need for sporting clubs to focus on participation.
Michelle holds a Bachelor of Applied Science – Human Movement (Sports Administration), Diploma of Business and Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment among other relevant industry qualifications.
In 2004, Michelle was selected as a Sport and Recreation Victoria Women Leader in Sport. Michelle also provides ongoing support and leadership to women who play an active role in community groups that support formal sport throughout Victoria. This includes leading the “Changing Gippsland’s Game” women’s network.
Over the past decade Michelle has worked with more than 20 Local Government authorities and government departments in over 50 different towns and communities. Her work has primarily focussed on recreation and community led projects as the founder and Principal Consultant of Hands on Community Solutions which was then incorporated into the work of GippSport the Regional Sports Assembly.
Michelle is also experienced in working with government departments and groups that include DELWP, Parks Victoria, Regional Development Victoria, Department of Health and Human Services, State sporting associations, community planning groups, local businesses, technical experts and community organisations to negotiate and bring about successful results in challenging circumstances.
Michelle is a dedicated runner, competing in a range of events and volunteers at her local parkrun and is one of the active faces of the Gippy Girls Can Campaign. Her work as a volunteer extends with her contribution to South Gippsland Bass Swimming Club and as a very experienced technical official for Swimming Victoria.
