The information provided on this page is intended to offer an overview of Jack Gray's professional experience and achievements for informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the details shared, they are subject to change and may not fully represent all of Jack's recent work or roles. For further information or specific inquiries about Jack's experience or current projects with ECHO, please contact him directly.
Jack Gray - About
Jack Gray is a dedicated community advocate, project manager, and entrepreneur with a wealth of experience spanning youth engagement, government advisory, community development, and project facilitation. His journey has been deeply rooted in the Bega Valley, where he has championed initiatives focused on social sustainability, mental health, education, and youth empowerment. As an established entrepreneur, ECHO marks Jack’s third business, showcasing his ability to transform community ideas into impactful projects.
Community Advocacy and Leadership
From an early age, Jack has demonstrated a deep commitment to community service and advocacy. His work with the Social Justice Advocates (SJA) Youth Group as Deputy Youth Leader and Youth Convenor has been pivotal in promoting social justice issues within the Bega Valley, focusing on human rights, equality, and environmental sustainability. Jack’s role in coordinating youth initiatives, organizing community projects, and facilitating events has empowered young individuals in the region to actively engage in community-driven projects. His leadership within SJA exemplifies his passion for building community awareness and fostering a culture of inclusivity and resilience.
In addition, Jack’s association with Headspace Bega as a Youth Reference Group (YRG) Board Member and Project Manager has further expanded his influence. There, he coordinated a successful youth festival aimed at advocating for youth mental health. This project is a testament to Jack’s ability to blend project management skills with a strong understanding of mental health advocacy, demonstrating his commitment to addressing critical issues impacting youth.
Project Management and Entrepreneurial Expertise
Jack’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Bega Valley ECHO, a business dedicated to supporting local projects by offering professional grant writing, project management, and consulting services. As Founder and Program Lead, Jack oversees all facets of ECHO’s operations, including governance, business management, and community development. Under his guidance, ECHO has become a vital resource in the Bega Valley, empowering local individuals and organisations to secure funding, implement sustainable projects, and promote community growth. ECHO is Jack's third business, underscoring his entrepreneurial journey and depth of experience in community-focused ventures.
His experience as a Project Manager extends beyond ECHO. Jack’s work with Ovenger Appliances as Head of Online Services showcases his ability to manage digital platforms and improve online engagement. Additionally, his role with Right At Home Staging as an Assistant Interior Designer allowed him to refine his skills in project coordination and design, demonstrating his versatility and attention to detail. Jack’s portfolio of project management roles highlights his ability to plan, execute, and oversee projects with precision and professionalism.
Government Advisory Roles
Jack has been a voice for youth in state-level decision-making processes, serving as a Youth Advisor for the NSW Department of Education and the NSW Department of Health. His advisory roles involve providing insights and recommendations on policies and initiatives relevant to young people, ensuring their perspectives are integrated into policy frameworks. This experience has positioned Jack as a trusted advocate for youth interests, allowing him to influence policies that directly impact the lives of young Australians. His work as a Government Advisor reflects his dedication to creating a future where youth voices are respected and represented in the highest levels of governance.
Community Development and Strategic Partnerships
Throughout his career, Jack has focused on community development and creating sustainable change within the Bega Valley. His work with Eden Community Access Centre as Youth Initiatives Coordinator and his involvement with Late Night Libraries Tura Beach as Co-Coordinator underscore his commitment to developing programs and initiatives that enrich local communities. Jack’s role as Youth Space Leader for Grow The Future Bega further reflects his dedication to fostering spaces where young people can thrive, learn, and contribute to their communities.
Jack’s collaborations with a wide network of organisations, including Bega Valley Rotary (where he serves as Radio Host and Event Audio Tech Lead), Dreamcoat Productions as Social Media Manager, and The Bush & Us as Leading Website Developer, illustrate his capacity to build strategic partnerships. These partnerships enable Jack to extend his impact, bringing together resources and expertise to support a wide range of community-driven projects. His leadership has been instrumental in ensuring that local initiatives receive the attention, funding, and support they need to succeed.
Achievements and Certifications
Jack’s dedication to community service and personal growth is reflected in his extensive list of certifications and achievements. He has completed training in Mental Health First Aid, Youth Mental Health First Aid, Suicide Prevention and Alertness (Wesley LifeForce), and safeTALK Suicide Alertness by LIVINGWORKS, equipping him with the skills to support mental health initiatives within the community. Jack’s focus on equity and inclusivity is further evidenced by his certifications in Access & Equity Training, Cultural Understanding Training, and RedDust Cultural Healing Workshop, which have enriched his perspective and strengthened his approach to community engagement.
Jack’s role as Government Advisor on the Youth Advisory Council (YAC), combined with certifications in Governance Basics and Systems for Success, reflects his commitment to effective governance and structured project management. These achievements highlight Jack’s dedication to building a strong foundation for his work, ensuring that his projects are managed with professionalism and care.
A Vision for Bega Valley
Jack Gray’s work is driven by a vision of a more connected, empowered, and sustainable Bega Valley. Through his roles as a project manager, entrepreneur, community leader, and advisor, Jack has built a career dedicated to making a meaningful impact on his community. His unique combination of project management expertise, community advocacy, and youth empowerment has established him as a respected leader and a champion for positive change in the Bega Valley. Through ECHO, Jack continues to foster collaboration, secure funding, and support the dreams and ideas of his community, embodying the principle that every idea, with the right support, can become a powerful reality.