Getting to know Mary and Rauny: Ginninderry’s newest team members
We’re delighted to introduce two new staff members who’ve recently joined the team as Community Engagement and Development Officers – Mary Webb and Rauny Worm.
After just a month on the job, they’re already making their mark, and we couldn’t be more excited about what they bring to our growing community.
Introducing Rauny Worm
If Rauny looks familiar, there’s a good reason for that. Over her 25 years in Canberra, she’s been the creative force behind some of our city’s most beloved cultural spaces. You might remember her from her time managing the Tuggeranong Arts Centre, or perhaps you encountered her at Parliament House managing visitor engagement, or through the development of the Belconnen Arts and Cultural Program in the early days, prior to the construction of Belco Arts.
What brought Rauny to the nation’s capital? Like many of us, it started with a partner’s job opportunity, and the couple realised Canberra was a great place to raise a family. Now, with two kids of her own, Rauny’s passionate about creating spaces where families can connect, learn, and grow together.
Rauny believes deeply in art’s power to communicate the importance of sustainability.
“Art can help convey the importance of sustainability, stimulate conversations about the environment and engage the community,” she explains.
“Artwork can translate complex environmental issues into relatable experiences, fostering a deeper understanding and connection to our environment and the world we live in.”
It’s this unique blend of creative expertise and environmental passion that makes Rauny such a perfect fit. She’s also eager to get to know residents and explore how art can help us all better understand our role in creating a sustainable future.
Meet Mary Webb
Mary Webb embodies the phrase “local through and through.” Born and bred in Canberra, she’s spent the last 20 years living within a 5-kilometre radius – now that’s commitment to community! Her roots run deep, and so does her expertise in environmental conservation, education, and community engagement.
Mary’s career journey has taken her through environmental conservation work, schools, and Landcare initiatives. Most recently, she brought her community-focused approach to Pegasus Riding for the Disabled, where she witnessed firsthand the transformative power of bringing people together around shared activities.
“I’m passionate about helping people understand more about conservation and sustainability” Mary says.
“I’m excited to work with locals on the community gardens. They’re a chance for intergenerational connection, and it can be a very rewarding experience when you’re watching something grow.”
When she’s not nurturing community connections, Mary’s at home with her three children and two distinctly different dogs – Sophie the sausage dog, who has a “big personality,” and Duncan the Staffy, who’s “a little unsure of himself.”
A shared vision for Ginninderry
Mary and Rauny’s backgrounds complement each other perfectly.
Mary brings deep environmental knowledge and hands-on community experience, while Rauny offers creative expertise and innovative approaches to engagement. Together, they embody Ginninderry’s vision of creating a sustainable community of international significance.
Both are settling into their new roles beautifully, and you might even spot them working their way through the menu at Café Stepping Stone in Strathairn – apparently, they’ve made it their mission to try everything, and we completely understand why!
As Ginninderry continues to grow – with plans for 30,000 residents across four suburbs over the next 30 years – having Mary and Rauny on board means we’re building more than just homes. We’re cultivating a community where sustainability isn’t just a buzzword, but a lived experience shared through art, gardens, and genuine connections between neighbours.
Whether you’re interested in getting involved with community gardens, exploring how art can help us understand environmental issues, or simply want to connect with fellow residents, Mary and Rauny are here to help make it happen.
They’ve already got some exciting events in the works – so stay tuned!