Former Collingwood and Sydney defender, Andrew Schauble, appointed CEO of Geelong Food Relief Centre
A former AFL star has taken up the fight to help feed struggling residents across Victoria in need of emergency food relief.
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A former AFL star has taken up the fight to help feed struggling Geelong families and residents in need of emergency food relief.
One-time Collingwood and Sydney defender Andrew Schauble has quietly assumed the important role as chief executive officer of the Geelong Food Relief Centre, saying he was inspired to make a difference in the lives of people doing it tough.
After playing 167 games for the Magpies and Swans – including his debut against the Cats at the MCG in 1995 – Mr Schauble lived overseas for a decade predominantly as a leadership management consultant in Dubai.
He returned to Australia to run his own rowing and equipment company, BAT logic, before hitting a point in his life “when I wanted to do something that had a bit more purpose”.
The 46-year-old has been leading the GFRC for four months, who provide vital groceries and supplies to those facing financial hardship across the region.
“I’ve had a varied background but this role is very rewarding,” he said.
“I think particularly because we are right at the coal face of the issue here.
“We are trying to deal with the bigger aspects of it, with government funding and other grants, but it is an amazing leveller.”
The company has two mini-marts in the city and North Geelong, also providing 40 welfare agencies with food for those in need in the Bellarine, Surf Coast and Winchelsea areas.
“Every time you want to see where life is really at you just need to walk into the mini mart and chat to people, and hear there stories,” he said.
“You go to work each day knowing there is a reason and a purpose, and you are doing something that is worthwhile to the community.”
Mr Schauble spent five years with Collingwood and six at Sydney, making his mark as a reliable full-back - playing on two of the games greatest players, Gary Ablett Snr and Wayne Carey, on multiple occasions before retiring at 28.
He said demand for food relief at the centre had increased significantly in the lead up to Christmas.
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Originally published as Former Collingwood and Sydney defender, Andrew Schauble, appointed CEO of Geelong Food Relief Centre
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