New MVA committee welcomes connection, community spirit
From left: Secretary Cynthia Dodd; Treasurer Janny Spilsbury-Schakel; Cate Patterson, member; Deb Davis, member; Vice President Amanda Leal; Rick Rexa, member; Eric Anderson, Member (Jaqui Watkins – absent).
The Montville Village Association (MVA) has announced its new Management Committee for 2025–2026, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter it says will be focused on connection, inclusion and preserving the town’s unique heritage.
The MVA plays a vital role in maintaining Montville’s much-loved community spaces — from the Montville Sports and Recreation Ground to the heritage-listed Village Hall — and in fostering the strong community spirit the village is known for.
Incoming committee members say they’re honoured to continue this legacy and are eager to work collaboratively to ensure Montville remains a vibrant and welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.
“We’re committed to keeping the Village Hall and Recreation Ground thriving as spaces where people can come together to celebrate, share ideas and strengthen community ties,” said Secretary Cynthia Dodd.
The new committee extended thanks to outgoing members Wayne Parcell (Past President), Eva-Marie Seeto (Past Vice President), Skye Parker (School Liaison) and Michael Bradley (Immediate Past President). In particular, Ms Seeto was recognised for her dedication to grant applications, social media and secretarial work. The committee also congratulated Mr Parcell on his new leadership roles with the Montville Chamber of Commerce and Hinterland Tourism.
2025–2026 Executive Team
Deborah Davis, President (pending confirmation at the November General Meeting); Amanda Leal, Vice President; Janny Spilsbury-Schakel, Treasurer; Cynthia Dodd, Secretary. General Committee: Cate Patterson, Rick Rexa, Jaqueline Watkins and Eric Anderson.
The new team brings together a wide range of professional and community experience. Ms Dodd, a long-time Montville resident, has a background spanning corporate investment analysis, education and intercultural studies, and now devotes her time to preserving regional Australian stories. Mr Rexa, a retired senior teacher and passionate environmental advocate, has called Montville home since 1989 and is committed to protecting the Range’s character. Ms Leal, well known for her involvement in local tourism and business, returns to community life with a focus on fostering local enterprise and connection.
Looking to 2026, the MVA’s priorities include expanding its community events calendar, seeking grants and fundraising opportunities, and re-activating the Hall Maintenance and Conservation Subcommittee to care for the heritage-listed Village Hall.
“We want to promote teamwork and transparency so that everyone in Montville feels part of the decision-making process,” Deborah Davis said.
Residents are encouraged to get involved by attending upcoming events: the Growers and Makers Market on 8 November (7.30am–12pm), and the MVA General Meeting on 26 November (5.15pm for 5.30pm start), featuring guest speaker Peter Connell, Cultural Heritage Officer with Sunshine Coast Council.
Nominations will soon open for the Montville Citizen of the Year and Lifetime Citizen of the Year awards, to be presented at the Australia Day Event, and a Community Dinner is planned for early 2026.
Let’s make 2026 a year of connection, celebration and positive change for Montville.
For enquiries or to get involved, email secretary.mva@gmail.com.