Heartbeat of the Hastings: Tegan Wright

TEGAN Wright’s path to where she is today wasn’t always clear.

Growing up, she says she often felt a little lost.

After leaving public school, she wasn’t sure who she was or what direction she wanted to take.

“I bounced around different jobs for years and felt like I was already falling behind,” Tegan shared.

It wasn’t until she began working as a dental assistant that she realised what truly mattered to her.

“The part of the job I loved the most was helping people feel safe and supported,” she said.

In 2014, Tegan became a new mum, juggling work and family life while still questioning how she could make a meaningful difference in the community.

Everything shifted in 2020 when she began working with the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ), supporting some of the most vulnerable people in the region.

“Working with DCJ really opened my eyes,” she said.

“I kept thinking these people need more, there has to be more we can do.”

After four years with DCJ, Tegan became co-owner of Support Services For You, an NDIS-registered support service provider.

“That’s when I understood that impact doesn’t have to be huge to matter. Every small action counts,” Tegan said.

Since then, she has thrown herself into supporting the community.

From running monthly all-abilities Mental Health Walks, to organising Clothing for a Cause, donation drives, and now preparing to launch a Community Pantry, she’s always finding ways to make a difference.

Tegan has also turned personal challenges into opportunities to help others.

After being diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, she took part in Stars of the Hastings, raising $15,000 for the Cancer Council.

She also visited local schools to share her story, raising awareness about sun safety and the importance of regular skin checks.

For Tegan, helping others is simply part of who she is.

“Helping people is what makes me tick. It’s what drives everything I do, both personally and professionally,” she said.

By Chan ANSELL