A Legacy of Support: Celebrating Deb Collard’s Retirement

Carers, colleagues and the FCAV team recently came together to celebrate Deb Collard, Learning and Development Coordinator and Carer Advocate, on her retirement and recognise her many years of service to the foster care community.

Growing up in a fostering family and throughout her career, Deb has been a dedicated advocate for children and carers, drawing on her knowledge and experience to ensure their voices are heard and supported.

From developing learning programs that recognise the needs of the whole fostering family to helping design and deliver Victoria’s first Carer Wellbeing Retreats, Deb has made a valued contribution to carer support and development.

Her retirement lunch brought together colleagues, carers and families she has supported over decades. These enduring relationships reflect the genuine connections Deb has made through her professionalism, empathy and understanding of the challenges carers face.

Staff and carers alike will miss Deb’s unwavering support, kindness and knowledge, and the genuine care she brought to every interaction.

We thank Deb for her contribution to the FCAV and the wider carer community, and wish her a very happy retirement filled with family, friends and new adventures!