Joe Tucci, CEO of the Australian Childhood Foundation and Chair of the National Centre for Action, passed away last week after a short illness.
When Joe passed, our world lost a great leader – a man whose heart, soul and dedication transformed the lives of countless children and young people.
The loss of anyone before their time is a tragedy but Joe’s untimely passing is unfathomable. Joe was a remarkable presence whose warmth, connection and compassion were matched in equal parts by his wisdom, passion and relentless drive. He didn’t only champion the rights of children and young people, and their safety but made the world a safer place for them – a place in which their voices are heard and their views and opinions matter.
Blue Knot, ACF and the Healing Foundation came together to establish the National Centre for Action on Child Sexual Abuse. Joe was a colleague and friend of Blue Knot’s since its inception. The opportunity to work closely with Joe at the helm, Janise, and our friends at the Healing Foundation, has been nothing short of inspirational. In so doing we have established a Centre which is driving change for victims and survivors of child sexual abuse, of all ages, around the country.
The world will never be the same without Joe but his legacy has laid the cornerstones from which we can continue to build together. It was an honour and a privilege to work with you, Joe. We will miss your smile, your wicked humour, your guidance and your strong moral compass. To Joe’s family, Janise and the ACF family we are standing with you trying to absorb the enormity of Joe’s passing and committing to continuing his life’s work alongside you all.
Cathy Kezelman, CEO
