New chair for Aurora

Jane Marsden has been voted chairperson of The Aurora Group charity following the resignation of co-founder Bruce Pollack.

Pollack has been chairperson since the group was founded in 1999 with the aim of raising money to support the lesbian, gay and transgender communities.

I’m thrilled that Jane is taking over, somebody who has vast knowledge of community activities and a proven commitment to working for the community, Pollack told Sydney Star Observer.

The Aurora Group: A Ruby Foundation raises funds through an annual dinner and a Giving Program of community donations. The group prioritises non-HIV related organisations, such as Twenty10 and the Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service.

Pollack said he was pleased a simple idea between like-minded friends had proved successful.

People are now coming to us and saying can we give you the proceeds from our birthday parties, for example, he said. Lots of people are having birthday parties and saying, -˜No presents, but please give donations.’ We’ve done quite a few of these sorts of events -¦ It is enormously gratifying.

Pollack said he was stepping down to allow new people to come in with new ideas and new energy.

New chairperson Jane Marsden told the Star she looked forward to her new role, but said it was always difficult following in a legend’s footsteps.

And Bruce is a legend in this community, she said. He’s just a remarkable man, with enormous energy and enormous commitment to this community.

Pollack remains director of the company and a trustee of the Foundation.