We’re proud to celebrate our CEO, Bernadene Voss, who has been named The Knight’s 2025 Australian Knight of the Year. This recognition shines a light on the impact one person can make when they lead with purpose and community at heart. Thank you to The Knight for acknowledging Bernadene’s work (and by extension, the vital work of Big Group Hug!) in supporting children and families who need it most.
Article originally published by The Knight.
Meet Bernadene Voss.
Bernadene Voss is a distinguished business leader and passionate community advocate, celebrated for her ability to merge strategic insight with heartfelt compassion.
Her leadership journey spans corporate, start ups, government, and not-for-profit sectors — from serving as CEO to her tenure as Mayor Emeritus and Councillor for the City of Port Phillip right through to community volunteering.
She is recognised for her unwavering commitment to community service and impactful leadership and dedication to uplifting vulnerable communities and driving meaningful change.
As CEO of Big Group Hug, Bernadene brings both the professional acumen and the empathetic leadership that define the organisation’s mission. Her ability to foster strong relationships and champion social causes makes her a formidable force for good.
Big Group Hug is a grassroots not-for-profit with a big heart. Serving local communities to tackle child poverty, Big Group Hug help vulnerable children – from newborns through to 16 years old – who are living in crisis by distributing essential items in times of need. These items include prams, car seats and cots, right through to clothing, toiletries, books and toys.
They’re committed to building resilient families, alleviating financial stress, tackling waste and supporting every young family who asks for help while ensuring that the child remains the focus of everything they do.
Big Group Hug distribute donated goods through a network of 1,200 health & welfare professionals across 135 agencies including local government, charities, shelters and foster care. Their service has become a vital part of the response to issues in our local communities such as family violence, homelessness, seeking asylum and living with a disability.
