I have recently joined the ARLF Team in Manager Corporate Governance role. I am hoping I can continue to develop the good governance frameworks already in place to support effective decision-making into the future that will help the Foundation achieve its mission.
I enjoy looking after my small menagerie of pet animals, gardening (generally food focused), walking and enjoying time with friends and family.
Where does your passion for rural, regional and remote Australia come from?
I was born in Goulburn NSW and even after my family moved to Brisbane we spend most of our holidays travelling to Goulburn, and surrounding areas and visiting family and friends, so I have always been connected to the country. The sense of community, as well as the opportunity to indulge in my love of animals and walking, are some of the factors that made the decision to move to regional NSW to raise a family very easy. Having been based in the regions now for over 25 years and having the opportunity to travel over many parts of Australia, I have no regrets!
What’s your favourite memory or most memorable moment in rural, regional and remote Australia?
There are many, but one moment that sticks with me was while living in Moree on a small acreage block. It was early summer, there had been an earlier downpour of rain and the night was unusually hot, still and humid. Waking up to what sounded like the neighbours (who were lovely by the way) having a party, we went outside to a dark but starry sky only to realise the air was actually vibrating due to a mass a corroboree of frogs. It was so loud that it hurt your ear drums. It was one of those unexpected and surreal moments, being surrounded by nature at its awesome best and understanding we were just a tiny insignificant part of it!
What’s your professional background?
Before joining the ARLF, I was working in Management, Governance and Board support roles in the Higher Education Sector at the University of New England in Armidale. Prior to that I have worked in services industries (banking, legal services) and for a regulator, involved in business development, marketing, compliance and project management. To keep things interesting I have also been lucky enough to have done some freelance work, consulting/tender writing, teaching at a community college, and organising a local markets.
Three things you love about working at the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation?
Having recently started with ARLF, it’s easy to observe that everyone is passionate about what the Foundation does and that this makes this a very special workplace. I love that the drive to have a positive impact on the individuals and rural and regional communities involved in ARLF programs is the palpable motivator. I also love the fact that the Foundation staff are based all across Australia and there is a constant sharing of diverse experiences and challenges that makes me feel connected to all parts of this very large continent.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
