Leading Through Change

Anne-Marie Cox’s Legacy at Rocky Bay

After five transformative years of leading through change and growth, our Chief of Community retires with pride and purpose.

“It’s been an absolute privilege to hold this role within Rocky Bay and therefore the most difficult decision I’ve ever had to make,” says Anne-Marie. “I’m not sure many people ever feel certain about when it’s the right time to retire, but for me, the time has come to explore new horizons.” she says.

Anne-Marie joined Rocky Bay in early 2020, expecting a few months to settle into the role. But just three weeks later, COVID-19 reached WA, and services across the sector began to shut down. “There was no easing in, it was boots and all,” she recalls. “It became one of the best examples of rapid change I’ve seen in my career.”

While others closed their doors, Anne-Marie championed a bold decision: to keep Rocky Bay’s community services running. Within weeks, staff had transformed buses into mobile studios, delivered art packs to families, and found creative ways to stay connected with customers during lockdowns.

Reflecting on her time at Rocky Bay, Anne-Marie says her greatest pride lies in the people she’s worked alongside.

“Our support workers are out there every day making big decisions in the moment. It takes a village and I’m proud of that collaboration.”

Anne-Marie brought a deeply personal perspective to her work in disability, shaped by her own family’s experience. Her father, a double amputee, was forced into a nursing home due to a lack of suitable in-home support options at the time. “It broke my heart. I wanted to influence the sector so people could live and age where they wanted to. At Rocky Bay, we can offer that, the whole-of-life journey is what makes us unique.”

A passionate advocate for inclusion, Anne-Marie pushed for disability to be seen and celebrated in mainstream culture. Under her leadership, Rocky Bay became the first disability provider to participate in the Perth Fringe Festival, going on to win the 2023 People’s Choice Award. “That spoke volumes. People want us there, and we’ll continue to be.”

Anne-Marie has also played a pivotal role in Rocky Bay’s sector advocacy, with the organisation regularly invited to contribute to state and national policy discussions.

“We’re proud to be listened to, and to influence a stronger, more inclusive sector”.

Her commitment to innovation has helped shape the Rocky Bay’s long-term vision such as the transformation of Lady Lawley Cottage, which she believes will become a landmark for children and youth services in WA.

For emerging leaders, her advice is simple: “Jump in with your eyes wide open. Be open-minded, bring new ideas, and never stop challenging the norms. Tomorrow’s families will want to connect with us differently and we must be ready.”

Looking ahead, Anne-Marie is planning some well-earned rest, time with family, travel and perhaps a future role on a not-for-profit board. “I don’t really know what life without work looks like,” she laughs. “But for now, I want the gift of time.”

As she steps away, Anne-Marie leaves behind more than achievements. She leaves a culture of bravery, compassion, and collaboration.

“We do extraordinary things every day. And I am so proud of that.”