ECLC welcomed over forty clients, Councillors, partners and community supporters from across the Yarra Ranges and beyond at a special Thank You Lunch at the Yarra Ranges Community Legal Centre (YRCLC) in Healesville on June 28.

Local elder Aunty Kim Wandin welcomed the celebration to Country. ECLC CEO Michael Smith and Yarra Ranges Coordinator Anita Koochew reflected on the Centre’s important work in the region since early 2014, and looked forward to plans for the years ahead.

Michael Smith thanked the Yarra Ranges community for their advocacy, support and collaboration – bringing the ‘community’ into the YRCLC.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Cr Noel Cliff congratulated ECLC on the restoration of funding and its work with the community:

“Eastern CLC coming to us was one of the best things that could happen, particularly up this road and heading to Warburton. Because do we have a need? By gosh, we do. The people really need your services – they are often in a desperate situation.”

Federal Member for Casey, Tony Smith advised ECLC that he was unable to attend the celebration but sent his support and congratulations:

“It is wonderful news that the Healesville ECLC (YRCLC) will benefit from this funding commitment and will remain open to continue its invaluable work. I would like to thank you all for for your hard work and passion.”

ECLC thanks all of its supporters and partners who lent their voice to the campaign for free legal help across Melbourne’s East, particularly in the Yarra Ranges.