New Staff and Courses for GALA and NECC
Guyra Adult Learning Association (GALA) trading as the New England Community College (NECC), has welcomed two new staff members, alongside the introduction of two new courses designed to meet the evolving needs of the local community.
New GALA staff: Elizabeth Rosser and Heidi McElnea
GALA CEO Kelso Looker said the organisation is excited about this period of growth and renewal.
“We’re pleased to welcome new team members who bring strong community experience, and to expand our course offerings in response to local demand,” he said.
Heidi McElnea has joined the team as Outreach Support Officer, replacing long-standing staff member Leonie Taylor, who is retiring after many years of dedicated service.
Heidi brings a background in community engagement and education through her work with not-for-profit organisations, local Council and regional businesses.
Heidi’s role is focused on delivering tailored educational opportunities to ensure equitable access too lifelong learning opportunities for people in the New England.
“I am really looking forward to working with NECC to deliver programs and courses that meet the needs of our local communities,” Heidi said.
Elizabeth Rosser has taken on the role of Accounts and Marketing and will become a familiar face at the front desk. Elizabeth has extensive experience in community outreach, event management and support, having worked with various not-for-profit groups across Australia.
“I am happy to be back working in Guyra and after collaborating with NECC on various projects, I’m excited to now be joining the team,” said Elizabeth.
Alongside these appointments, GALA and NECC are launching two new courses: Practical AI Tools for Small Business and the Accidental Counsellor.
“These new courses reflect the growing and changing needs of our community,” Kelso Looker said. “From supporting local businesses to equipping people with skills to respond to others in times of distress, we are committed to delivering practical, relevant training,” he said. These two new courses complement the wide range of courses that NECC runs.
The Practical AI Tools for Small Business course will commence at the end of April in Guyra, with additional sessions scheduled across Guyra, Glen Innes and Armidale throughout April and May.
The workshop is designed to help small business owners from different industries of agriculture, tourism, accommodation, retail and food service to leverage AI tools to streamline operations, enhance marketing, and save time and money.
Participants will have the opportunity to trial a range of AI tools and will leave with practical ideas and ready-to-use prompts that can be immediately applied in their business or organisation.
The course is beginner-friendly and focuses on hands-on skills rather than technical theory.
The Accidental Counsellor course is a one-day, evidence-based professional development program for people who regularly support others in their work or volunteer roles.
Accredited by Suicide Prevention Australia, the course provides participants with the confidence and skills to respond safely and effectively when someone is experiencing emotional distress. With ongoing challenges such as dry conditions, rising fuel prices and increased cost of living, the need for community awareness and support skills is more important than ever. This course helps participants feel more confident in knowing how to respond when someone opens up about personal struggles.
Relevant for social and community workers, educators, managers, frontline staff, support and disability workers, health and aged care professionals, coaches, volunteers and youth leaders, this training is for anyone who often finds themselves being the “go-to” person for others.
Course dates and locations as follows:
Practical AI Tools for Small Business
Guyra – 29th April and 20th May
Armidale – 5th May
Glen Innes – 26th May
The Accidental Counsellor
Armidale – 13th May
Guyra – 14th May
Glen Innes – 15th May
For a complete course list or to book your place, visit the New England Community College website, follow NECC on Facebook, or call 02 6779 2132.