Centre of influence honoured with local hero award

Peter Bertus with Johnny Wong.

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One of Australia’s largest logistics and transport infrastructure companies, Downer Corporation, with more than 33,000 employees, has recognised weExplore Wellness Centre with its Local Hero Award and a $A5000 donation on July 4.

Based in Melbourne and operated by Gateway Adventist Centre, weExplore Wellness Centre is a growing community hub championing holistic health and mental wellbeing.

The award ceremony, held at the centre, was attended by representatives from Downer, including Peter Bertus, general manager of finance and business performance, who presented the cheque to weEplore president Johnny Wong.  

“Downer recognises that weExplore Wellness promotes holistic health and mental wellbeing through inclusive workshops and support programs,” Mr Bertus said. “We appreciate how the centre empowers individuals to lead purpose-driven lives, offering tools and encouragement in a nurturing, community-focused environment.”

During the cheque presentation ceremony, Downer staff were introduced to the centre’s health message and learned why Seventh-day Adventist are considered a “blue zone people”—known for their longevity and lifestyle principles.

Leanne Tilson, vice president of weExplore, expressed her gratitude: “We’ve been running for five years, and it’s awesome to be recognised by other organisations. Praise God for this!”

The centre offers a range of services, including mental health courses, counselling and health coaching.

“In our recent eight-week Mental Resilience Workshop, we saw remarkable improvements among participants,” said Tina Wong, one of the centre’s dedicated counsellors.

For health and counselling needs, visit weExplore’s website.

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