--- title: Board Candidates 2026 date: 2026-08-21T15:31:00+10:00 author: Walker Designs canonical_url: "https://sthelensnhh.org.au/board-candidates-2026" section: Site Content --- # Board Candidates 2026 1. [ Home ](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/) 2. [ Governance ](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/governance) 3. Board Candidates 2026 ## Candidate statements, qualifications and experience, and office bearer interest **Annual General Meeting** **Monday 31 August 2026, 1.00 pm, Panorama Hotel, 1 Quail Street, St Helens** - Each candidate listed below was validly nominated in writing, signed by two members of the Association, accompanied by the candidate's written consent (endorsed on the form), and delivered their nomination to the House at least ten days before the day of the AGM. - All candidates are standing for election as members of the Board. - Office bearers are elected by the new Board at its first meeting after the AGM (rule 22(2)), not by members at the AGM. - Candidates are grouped below according to whether they have indicated interest in an office bearer role. ***This is an indication only and is not binding.*** - Within each group, candidates are listed alphabetically by surname. - Candidate statements are published as written by the candidates themselves. ### Candidates indicating interest in an office bearer role (4 candidates) These candidates are standing for the Board and have also indicated they would be willing to serve in one or more office bearer roles. ![Cluadia Butler](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/volumes/images/Candidates/_690x1000_crop_center-center_none/11713/Cluadia-Butler.webp)Read bio ### Claudia Butler --- ![David Head](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/volumes/images/Candidates/_690x1000_crop_center-center_none/11715/David-Head.webp)Read bio ### David Head --- ![Profile image placeholder](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/volumes/images/Candidates/_690x1000_crop_center-center_none/11988/profile-image-placeholder.webp)Read bio ### Michele Reading --- ![Profile image placeholder](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/volumes/images/Candidates/_690x1000_crop_center-center_none/11988/profile-image-placeholder.webp)Read bio ### Sheridan van Asch --- ##### Claudia Butler ### CANDIDATE STATEMENT I am standing because I strongly believe in the Neighbourhood House model. It is not simply about delivering services. It is about people coming together, identifying what their community needs and using their skills, care and ideas to respond. Staff provide the backbone, but volunteers and community members bring the House to life. Through the Neighbourhood House, I found connection and belonging in this community. When my mother passed away recently, I experienced how people at the House quietly support and hold one another. The St Helens Neighbourhood House is at a turning point. Recent events have had a significant impact on staff, volunteers and members. They also give us an opportunity to learn, rebuild and create a stronger future. The new Board will need to meet the requirements of the Structured Recovery and Assurance Framework, rebuild trust and ensure strong governance is in place. This is work I feel called to contribute to. My professional background is in helping people and organisations navigate change, conflict and difficult periods. I have experience rebuilding trust, strengthening culture, bringing people with different views together and creating accountability and good performance. I believe the Board should listen, create the right conditions for people to contribute and support community members to shape the House together. I would bring a calm, collaborative approach. I prefer to lead with people, not over them, while still being willing to step forward when clear direction is needed. I will ask difficult questions when needed, but I will also listen, seek common ground and focus on what will help the House move forward. I know the work ahead will be significant and do not take that lightly. I care deeply about the House and believe my skills, values and commitment could help it recover and flourish again. ### QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE My formal Board experience includes serving on the St Helens Neighbourhood House Board from September 2025 until March 2026. My broader governance experience comes from many years in executive and senior leadership roles. I have reported directly to boards, prepared information for board oversight and worked with board members on strategy, performance, compliance, budgets, organisational risk and culture. In the community services sector, I oversaw 25 funding agreements worth approximately $12 million. This required meeting funding obligations, maintaining accurate records, monitoring performance and acting early when risks or concerns arose. I have also established governance groups for complex strategic projects. This involved developing terms of reference, clarifying roles and decision making, bringing together people with different interests and ensuring each group remained focused on its purpose. As a senior leader with around 140 people in my reporting line, I learned how to maintain oversight without interfering in daily operations. I understand that a Board must set direction, ask questions, monitor results and accept responsibility, while allowing the managers and staff to run the organisation. I bring more than formal qualifications. I bring many years of practical experience helping people, teams and organisations work through challenge and change, rebuild trust, strengthen culture and work towards shared goals. I hold a Postgraduate Certificate in Public Sector Management and New Learning Culture. I am also qualified as an early childhood educator and adult educator, with further training in leadership, organisational development and culture change. I have familiarised myself with the governance resources provided by Neighbourhood Houses Tasmania and look forward to continuing to build my governance knowledge through further training. For further information about my professional background and career, please visit my LinkedIn profile. ### OFFICE BEARER INTEREST The following signals interest only; it does not commit the candidate or the Board. PresidentYesVice PresidentYesTreasurerNoSecretaryNoPublic OfficerNoOrdinary Board MemberYes ##### David Head ### CANDIDATE STATEMENT I am a retired CEO, having spent over 35 years running global companies. My wife and I moved to the North East Coast (Falmouth) in January 2025 and have enjoyed volunteering at the Lighthouse in St Helens over the past 13 months where I have spent the majority of my service washing dishes. I am keen to expand my engagement with the local community and have nominated to serve on the St Helens Neighbourhood House Board where I believe I would bring significant governance experience having served as a Non-Executive Director on eleven boards over the past 30 years in Australia, Europe and Asia including five (volunteer) Not-for Profit Organizations. In both my corporate career as a CEO and as a Non-Executive Chair I have had considerable experience leading organizations through significant transformation processes. Each of these involved significant focus on stakeholder (and in particular employee) engagement and believe these experiences will be directly relevant to the St Helens Neighbourhood House as it seeks to recover from a period of internal challenges and implement a Structured Recovery and Assurance Framework. ### QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE I have a degree in Economics from Monash University (1981) I retired from my executive career in June 2023 after spending over 35 years as a CEO running both relatively small and some larger global companies in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, North America and Asia. My last executive role was as the CEO of IXOM - a $1.5billion Chemicals Group (formerly Orica Chemicals) which had circa 1400 employees operating in 10 countries across four continents. My other CEO roles included, Clean Seas Seafood Limited (a small cap ASX Listed Aquaculture Company), Pepsi Cola International (Australia/New Zealand/Pacific), Lion Nathan Retail Liquor Group, the Callum Group (formerly one of Australia’s largest textile groups) and Leigh Mardon Group (at the time Australia’s largest security printing group). Over the past 30 years, I have also served as a Non-Executive Director on eleven boards in Australia, Europe, and Asia – and was Chair of six of those organizations. Six of my Non-Executive Director roles have been on corporate boards including: - An ASX listed Australian Food Company (where I was the Independent Director). I was also a member of the Boards Audit and Risk and Remuneration Committees - A European based Secure Card and ID business with US shareholders were I was Non- Executive Chair - An Australian/New Zealand Joint Venture Smart Card company with Australian, European and US shareholders where I was Non-Executive Chair - An Indian based Automotive Textile business which I led the formation of with Australian, Indian and European shareholders – where I was the Deputy Non-Executive Chair - A family owned Coffee Group in Australia, which I first joined for five years in 2012 (when I took some time out of my executive career during my wife illness) and rejoined again after my retirement from my executive career in 2023 – where I am currently the Independent Non- Executive Chair. Five of my Non-Executive Director roles have been on Not for Profit Boards including: - Four years at Fair Trade Australia/New Zealand Limited where I was an Independent Director and Chair of the Boards Audit and Risk Committee - Nine years as President and Chair of the board at the VCFA, an amateur football (soccer) association in Victoria with 3,000+ members - Three years as the inaugural Chair of the Dalit Freedom Network in Australia, an Anti-Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery organization focused on social justice lobbying and fundraising. - Three years at Tabor, a Tertiary College in Victoria where I was an Independent Director and Chair of the Boards Audit and Risk Committee. Whilst my career as a CEO included some large companies, I also ran some relatively small ones including Clean Seas Seafood, an aquaculture business based on the Eyre Peninsula in regional South Australia that involved significant interaction with the local Port Lincoln community. My experience as a volunteer and board member with Not for Profit organisations included a number of small local organisations run by volunteers as well as some larger international ones with paid employees. I believe my significant governance experience on boards over 30 years combined with a capacity to engage with all stakeholders would enable me to help lead the St Helens Neighbourhood House through this next critical stage and to rebuild trust with all stakeholders – particularly with staff. ### OFFICE BEARER INTEREST The following signals interest only; it does not commit the candidate or the Board. PresidentYesVice PresidentYesTreasurerNoSecretaryNoPublic OfficerNoOrdinary Board MemberYes ##### Michele Reading ### CANDIDATE STATEMENT I am standing for the Board because I care deeply about St Helens Neighbourhood House and the important role it plays in supporting, connecting and strengthening our community. A strong Neighbourhood House should be welcoming, respectful, well governed and responsive to the needs of local people, and I would be committed to helping rebuild trust and confidence during this next stage. I bring life experience and a genuine commitment to listening carefully to members, staff, volunteers and the wider community. I believe good Board members act with integrity, ask thoughtful questions, respect different views and make decisions in the best interests of the organisation rather than for personal agendas. I would bring a calm, constructive and balanced approach to Board discussions, with a focus on transparency, accountability and collaboration. If elected, I would support the implementation of the Structured Recovery and Assurance Framework and work cooperatively with other Board members, the Manager and the independent Intermediary. I understand that the Board’s role is governance, not day-to-day management, and I would take seriously the responsibilities of oversight, confidentiality, conflict-of-interest management and respectful conduct. My aim would be to contribute to a safe, inclusive and positive future for the House, where people feel heard, volunteers feel valued, staff are supported appropriately, and the organisation can continue providing practical help, social connection and opportunities for the St Helens community. ### QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE I bring a broad mix of professional, governance, community and lived experience developed across the not-for-profit, government, education, utilities, mining, energy, telecommunications and small business sectors. My career has focused on people-centered leadership, transformational change, stakeholder engagement, coaching, facilitation, mental health and wellbeing, and improving outcomes through practical, strengths-based approaches. My board, committee and governance experience includes serving as an Independent Director with RSL Tasmania, representing community interests as a BODEC committee member, and contributing as a member of the Partnership Group for Live4Life. These roles have strengthened my understanding of governance, community representation, strategic decision-making, collaboration and accountability. I am also willing and prepared to complete any required governance training. In the community, I have volunteered as a mentor with eBeacon and a local district school, supported local wellbeing initiatives through Break O’Day Council, and contributed to youth mental health capacity building through Live4Life. My work as a Mental Health First Aid and Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor, coach and facilitator has enabled me to support individuals, workplaces and communities to build confidence, resilience, connection and wellbeing. I also bring formal qualifications and training in business administration, life coaching, mental health first aid, youth mental health first aid, Dare to Lead facilitation, Human Synergistics tools, advanced design thinking, wellbeing and digital marketing. Together, these experiences give me a practical, compassionate and community-focused perspective, with the ability to listen, engage diverse stakeholders, contribute constructively to group decision-making and support positive outcomes for the broader community. I would like to be considered for the roles of an ordinary member, and depending on applications would be happy to be considered for President or Vice President. ### OFFICE BEARER INTEREST The following signals interest only; it does not commit the candidate or the Board. PresidentYesVice PresidentYesTreasurerNoSecretaryNoPublic OfficerNoOrdinary Board MemberYes ##### Sheridan van Asch ### CANDIDATE STATEMENT I am based in 4 Mile Creek on the East Coast of Tasmania. My commitment to our local community is demonstrated, among other things, by being an active volunteer fire fighter (Falmouth Brigade), a volunteer at the St Mary’s Op Shop and member of the St Helens Neighbourhood House. During my working career I successfully managed a range of projects locally, nationally and internationally. I have effectively worked with a variety of community and industry sectors, not-forprofit and public organisations, and government Ministers/agencies at the local, national and international levels – delivering outcomes in terms of employment, training, industrial relations and workplace health and safety. Having previously been on Boards, both for profit and not for profit, I believe it is important that the Board sets effective and realistic goals and expectations for the organisation. It is important to ensure strategies and outcomes are clearly developed and appropriately implemented and reviewed regularly, with both the Manager and the Board. I believe a clear role of a Board member requires a solid understanding and application of governance processes, fiduciary responsibilities and effective community engagement strategies. The brief opportunity I had to act as Manager at the House provided me with the insight to how dynamic, integral and important the House is to our community. Hence the reason for my application to be a Board member. ### QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE Relevant skills - ability to achieve community and industry stakeholder engagement outcomes - design and implementation of creative solutions through effective facilitation - capacity to review, assessment and evaluation of projects/programs - strategic planning and business development - effective community and industry stakeholder engagement outcomes - strategic planning and business development, and - policy development #### Experience snapshot - Preparation and delivery of a comprehensive community and industry stakeholder engagement process for the Break O’Day Council re the proposed Council Amalgamations – providing me with a solid understanding of the community and its needs and aspirations. - Community consultation, research and preparation of funding applications eg Scamander Sports Complex. - Consultation, research, and preparation of funding applications eg Scamander Sports Complex. - Elected as Board Director & Company Secretary, St Helens/St Marys Bendigo Community Bank. - Elected as Board member to the Micah Projects Ltd Board – a $23M not for profit, as a nonexecutive Director and Company Secretary. Oversight of Micah Projects Ltd successful transition to a new legal structure as a not-for-profit Pty Ltd Company. - Leading a nationally dispersed team to successfully deliver an innovative $1M education and training project, within tight timeframes – delivered on time and within budget. Researching and preparation of a detailed economic analysis and business plan for a regionally based aviation company, wishing to expand their business into new markets. - Preparation of highly sensitive tender documents for a company seeking to expand into new markets to deliver airborne and rescue services. - Decommissioning of a building & delivering a change management strategy to assist a community based organisation, delivering services to the homeless, long term disabled and victims of domestic violence, to realign their services to meet changes in government funding. Led major transformation in funding direction and grant structures for a key organisation that generated widespread industry praise for visible improvements to industry sustainability and future prospects. - Won more than $50M in funding for development of state training infrastructure and led multiple highly successful remote and regional infrastructure upgrades and development projects e.g. establishment of the Great Barrier Reef International Marine College, Cairns, and establishment of First Nations Peoples’ training centers in regional and remote communities, enabling broader access to vocational, education and training and ultimately employment. #### Key roles and positions held - Elected as Board Director and Company Secretary, St Helens/St Marys Bendigo Community Bank - Director/Company Secretary, Micah Projects Ltd (Queensland organisation, aim to solve homelessness, domestic violence etc, aim to break social isolation/building community) - Director – Vocational Education and Training (VET) Export Office (Queensland) - Director – Industry Strategy – Queensland - Executive Director – Business and Industry Development – Director Community Engagement #### Qualifications, membership and professional education - Working with Vulnerable People (includes Police Check) - Volunteer Falmouth Fire Brigade - Australian Institute of Company Directors – completed Company Directors Course - Certificate “Provide First Aid, basic emergency life support, cardiopulmonary resus” - Bachelor of Social Sciences – part completion Masters – Women Studies ### OFFICE BEARER INTEREST The following signals interest only; it does not commit the candidate or the Board. PresidentNoVice PresidentYesTreasurerNoSecretaryYesPublic OfficerYesOrdinary Board MemberYes ### Candidates standing as ordinary Board members (9 candidates) These candidates are standing for the Board and have not indicated interest in an office bearer role at this time. ![Darren anderson](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/volumes/images/Candidates/_690x1000_crop_center-center_none/11714/darren-anderson.webp)Read bio ### Darren Anderson --- ![Profile image placeholder](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/volumes/images/Candidates/_690x1000_crop_center-center_none/11988/profile-image-placeholder.webp)Read bio ### Christina Hughes --- ![Profile image placeholder](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/volumes/images/Candidates/_690x1000_crop_center-center_none/11988/profile-image-placeholder.webp)Read bio ### Tony Lawson-Brown --- ![Profile image placeholder](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/volumes/images/Candidates/_690x1000_crop_center-center_none/11988/profile-image-placeholder.webp)Read bio ### Maurice John Mundy --- ![Claire norton](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/volumes/images/Candidates/_690x1000_crop_center-center_none/11712/claire-norton.webp)Read bio ### Clair Norton --- ![Profile image placeholder](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/volumes/images/Candidates/_690x1000_crop_center-center_none/11988/profile-image-placeholder.webp)Read bio ### Peter Paulsen --- ![Mary](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/volumes/images/Candidates/_690x1000_crop_center-center_none/11998/mary.webp)Read bio ### Mary Poiesz --- ![Keri Sidney](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/volumes/images/Candidates/_690x1000_crop_center-center_none/11716/Keri-Sidney.webp)Read bio ### Keri Sidney --- ![Su van den Heuvel](https://sthelensnhh.org.au/volumes/images/Candidates/_690x1000_crop_center-center_none/11717/Su-van-den-Heuvel.webp)Read bio ### Suzanna van den Heuvel --- ##### Darren Anderson ### CANDIDATE STATEMENT I am standing for the Board because I believe St Helens Neighbourhood House has an important role in our community and I would like to contribute to rebuilding confidence in the House and ensuring that it is governed openly, responsibly and in the best interests of its members, volunteers, staff and the wider community. I have previously served on the Board, including as Vice President, and have continued to volunteer with the House and other community organisations. That experience has reinforced my belief that a successful Board must understand the distinction between governance and the day-to-day management of the House. The Board should provide sound governance, support the Manager and staff in carrying out their roles, and ensure that members and volunteers are respected and kept appropriately informed. If elected, I would particularly like to contribute to the development of a new Constitution that properly reflects the interests of the Association and provides a strong foundation for its future. I also believe Board members should understand the responsibilities of the positions they accept and undertake appropriate governance and compliance training. Given what we have witnessed over the past year, I believe openness, accountability, respectful communication and working together are essential to the future of the House. I would bring to the Board my previous governance experience, broad commercial and practical experience, and many years of volunteering. Most importantly, I would like to help ensure that St Helens Neighbourhood House again becomes a place where members, volunteers, staff and those seeking assistance feel welcomed, valued and supported. ### QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE Governance and Business Experience - Previous Board member and Vice President, St Helens Neighbourhood House; completed Board governance training. - Four years in financial services as a Marketing Manager, including attendance and reporting at Board meetings, preparation of annual business plans, business development and liaison with financial planning, legal, accounting and insurance professionals. - Diploma of Financial Planning, including competencies in compliance and risk management. Professional and Practical Experience - More than 30 years' experience across the electricity, transport, construction and automotive industries, including technical, fleet management, sales, customer account management and business development roles. - Workplace health and safety committee experience, together with fleet maintenance and management responsibilities. Community and Volunteering Experience - Approximately 10 years' community volunteering, including five years with St Helens Neighbourhood House. Volunteer roles have included Loaves and Fishes, Community Transport, the Tip Shop, Cobra Creek Landcare Group and support for other House volunteer activities. Relevant Training - First Aid training, Suicide Prevention training and Defensive Driving certification. ### OFFICE BEARER INTEREST The following signals interest only; it does not commit the candidate or the Board. PresidentNoVice PresidentNoTreasurerNoSecretaryNoPublic OfficerNoOrdinary Board MemberYes ##### Christina Hughes ### CANDIDATE STATEMENT I am nominating for a position on the St Helens Neighbourhood House Board because I believe strongly in the important role the House plays in bringing people together and supporting our community. Over many years, both through my work and volunteering, I have seen firsthand how community connections can improve wellbeing, create opportunities and help people feel a sense of belonging. The Neighbourhood House is a place where people can access support, learn new skills, meet others and become more involved in community life, and I would like to help ensure it continues to provide these opportunities into the future. I have extensive experience working in community development, local government and strategic planning, along with governance experience through a range of community and volunteer organisations. I understand the importance of balancing good governance with a strong focus on the needs and aspirations of the community. I bring practical experience in building partnerships, securing funding, planning for the future and supporting organisations to remain sustainable and effective. Most importantly, I care deeply about our community and the people who live here. I believe strong communities are created when people work together, support one another and make everyone feel welcome and included. If elected, I would bring a collaborative approach, a commitment to good governance and a genuine desire to support the staff, volunteers and members who make the St Helens Neighbourhood House such a valued part of our community. ### QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE I have spent much of my working life supporting communities through my role in local government and community development, as well as through volunteering and involvement in local organisations. I have previously served as a committee member of the Business Enterprise Centre, a Board member of both the Fingal and St Helens Neighbourhood Houses, and a member of the State Fire Commission Board representing Local Government Tasmania. I currently represent Break O’Day Council on the Northern Region Emergency and Social Recovery Committee, working with others across the region to strengthen community resilience and recovery. These experiences have given me a solid understanding of governance, strategic planning and community needs, but more importantly they have reinforced my belief in the value of strong, connected communities and the important role organisations such as the St Helens Neighbourhood House play in helping people feel supported, included and engaged. ### OFFICE BEARER INTEREST The following signals interest only; it does not commit the candidate or the Board. PresidentNoVice PresidentNoTreasurerNoSecretaryNoPublic OfficerNoOrdinary Board MemberYes ##### Tony Lawson-Brown ### CANDIDATE STATEMENT I am seeking nomination to the Board of St Helens Neighbourhood House because I value the important role the House plays in bringing people together, supporting our community and creating opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds. I have previously served as a Board member of the House as Secretary, giving me valuable experience in governance, meetings, administration and working collaboratively with other Board members. This experience has given me a good understanding of the responsibilities involved in being part of a community organisation. I believe I can make a positive contribution to the Board. I am particularly interested in helping ensure that St Helens Neighbourhood House continues to be welcoming, inclusive and responsive to the changing needs of the local community. ### QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE I have extensive local community and committee experience, currently serving on three committees. I am a former Scout Leader, with experience in leadership, organisation and working with volunteers and the community. I actively volunteer with St Helens Neighbourhood House, the History Room and the Bay of Fires Arts Association. I have also previously served on the House Board as Secretary, giving me experience in governance, administration and committee responsibilities. I bring strong local knowledge, community connections and a commitment to supporting local organisations and our community. ### OFFICE BEARER INTEREST The following signals interest only; it does not commit the candidate or the Board. PresidentNoVice PresidentNoTreasurerNoSecretaryNoPublic OfficerNoOrdinary Board MemberYes ##### Maurice John Mundy ### CANDIDATE STATEMENT I’ve been a Break O’Day resident my entire life and held a wealth of local knowledge with strong community connections. Working as one of the longest serving volunteers at the community garden, I’ve developed a deep passion for the project and respect for the Neighbourhood House Association. The garden team believes having representation on the board is crucial and have chosen me as their nominee because of my groundedness, empathy and steadfast commitment. ### QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE Board Experience – 10 years on the St Helen’s History Room Board, 1990–2000. Volunteer Experience – 5 years at St Helen’s Community Garden. A lifetime of community engagement over 6 decades. ### OFFICE BEARER INTEREST The following signals interest only; it does not commit the candidate or the Board. PresidentNoVice PresidentNoTreasurerNoSecretaryNoPublic OfficerNoOrdinary Board MemberYes ##### Clair Norton ### CANDIDATE STATEMENT I am seeking the opportunity to serve on the Board because I believe strongly in the value of the House and the difference it makes in our community. I want to contribute to its continued success, help ensure it remains a strong, relevant and welcoming organisation, and play a constructive role in shaping its future direction, for generations to come. I bring extensive practical experience, proven leadership skills, a strong commitment to good governance, and a genuine willingness to learn. As a younger member of the community, I offer a fresh perspective, ask thoughtful questions, think creatively, and make practical, well-considered decisions focused on achieving the best outcomes for the community. I understand the strategic responsibilities of a board and the importance of listening to volunteers, staff and participants to ensure the organisation continues to meet local needs. When faced with unfamiliar issues, I take the time to seek advice, draw on the knowledge and experience of others, and make informed decisions. I value continuous learning and constructive feedback and am committed to strengthening my leadership and governance capabilities so I can make a meaningful contribution to the organisations I serve. With almost 15 years of service in the Australian Army, including within joint service organisations in both domestic and international environments, I developed strong leadership, teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills. My military service demanded strategic thinking, sound judgement, discipline and adaptability, while fostering resilience and the ability to perform effectively under pressure. Alongside this experience, I bring a creative and practical skill set supported by expertise in graphic design, photography, communicating complex information clearly to different audiences, and practical project delivery. Combined with strong digital literacy and communication skills, I offer a balanced perspective and a practical approach to board decision-making and community representation. ### QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE #### Board leadership experience - St Helens – St Marys RSL Sub Branch: President (October 2024 – March 2026); Treasurer (March 2026 to current); Secretary (July 2026 to current). #### Formal qualifications - Certificate IV in Government - Certificate IV in Business - Certificate III in Leadership and Training (Defence) - Certificate III in Logistics and Warehousing #### Volunteer organisations - St Helens – St Marys RSL Sub Branch – June 2023 to current (volunteer) - St Helens Neighbourhood House – Oct 2025 to current (Co-facilitator for Woman’s workshop program) - St Helens Online Access Centre – April 2024 to current (Volunteer) - RSPCA Wacol QLD 2018 – 2020 (Animal foster carer) #### Employment - Swimming Instructor – Oct 2025 to current: deliver swimming and water safety instruction to participants of varying ages and abilities; develop lesson plans tailored to individual learning needs while promoting confidence, safety and skill development; build positive relationships with participants and families through effective communication and encouragement. - Australian Army – Dec 2008 to May 2023 (Corporal), Logistics and Warehousing Supervisor: supervised logistics and warehouse operations in support of Defence capability; managed procurement, inventory control, stocktaking and corporate governance processes; maintained accountability for assets and compliance with established procedures; managed classified documentation and information in accordance with Defence security requirements. - Australian Army – Multimedia Technician: produced visual and digital communication products to support Defence operations and training, both internationally and domestically; managed information and databases to support operational requirements; applied graphic design, photography and videography skills to communicate complex information effectively; regularly communicated and collaborated with people across diverse roles, levels of responsibility and professional backgrounds. Throughout my military service I developed a disciplined, accountable and collaborative approach to leadership, governance and decision-making, qualities that continue to guide my professional and volunteer work today. ### OFFICE BEARER INTEREST The following signals interest only; it does not commit the candidate or the Board. PresidentNoVice PresidentNoTreasurerNoSecretaryNoPublic OfficerNoOrdinary Board MemberYes ##### Peter Paulsen ### CANDIDATE STATEMENT The St Helens Neighborhood House has been an integral part of this community since the mid-1980s. I was there at the beginning, alongside my wife, Gail, and a number of her friends, mostly new mothers, who identified a need for basic services and support within our municipality. Through determination and persistence, they established what became the St Helens Neighborhood House. Gail was engaged as Co-ordinator for two years before becoming President and later State President of the Association. Through her involvement, I have gained a strong understanding of the culture, values and purpose of the House. Having been involved from those early days, I hope to bring this knowledge, perspective and commitment to the table as a Board member. ### QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE I have been a long-term resident of St Helens since 1981 and have maintained a strong commitment to the community throughout that time. I joined the local Chamber of Commerce in the late 1980s and served on the Executive for more than 35 years, including four terms as President. I have also had a long involvement in tourism through operating a SCUBA diving and charter business and creating the Great Abalone Bake-Off in 1999. I am a small business operator and, with my wife Gail, currently own and manage Bay of Fires Holiday Homes. For the past 10 years, I have also worked for MAST as a Port Officer (Harbour Master) and provide training for the MAST BoatSafe recreational boat licence courses. I am also a member of the steering committee for the Bay of Fires Master Plan. These experiences have given me a strong understanding of our community, local businesses, tourism and the challenges and opportunities facing our region. I hope to bring this experience and commitment to my role as a Board member. ### OFFICE BEARER INTEREST The following signals interest only; it does not commit the candidate or the Board. PresidentNoVice PresidentNoTreasurerNoSecretaryNoPublic OfficerNoOrdinary Board MemberYes ##### Mary Poiesz ### CANDIDATE STATEMENT Having been associated with the St Helens Neighbourhood House Op Shop for the past 23 years, I know how important the House is to the community and to the people who volunteer their time to support it. I have always enjoyed being involved in community organisations. Over the years I have served as Secretary and committee member of the Binalong Bay Ratepayers Association, as well as Secretary of the St Helens Golf Club, and have had a thirty year association with the Suncoast Jazz Club, where I was honoured to receive life membership in 2005. My role at the Op Shop is as a volunteer, working alongside a wonderful group of people who give their time freely. One of the most satisfying parts of our work is being able to support local organisations and people through the shop's community grants that are passed on to the Board for approval. Those decisions are made collectively by all of the volunteers attending our Op Shop meetings. Volunteering at the Op Shop has given me a great deal over the years, including friendship, purpose and a sense of wellbeing. I would now like the opportunity to give something further back to the House by serving on the Board. After the difficulties of the past year, I believe it is very important that the House moves forward with integrity, respect and consideration for its staff, volunteers and members and the community that we have helped for decades. ### QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE - Two years as the Secretary and one year on the Committee of the Binalong Bay Ratepayers Association. - Seven years Secretary of St Helens Golf Club. - Thirty-three years Registration Officer of the Suncoast Jazz Club. - Twenty-three years volunteer, St Helens Neighbourhood House Op Shop. ### OFFICE BEARER INTEREST The following signals interest only; it does not commit the candidate or the Board. PresidentNoVice PresidentNoTreasurerNoSecretaryNoPublic OfficerNoOrdinary Board MemberYes ##### Keri Sidney ### CANDIDATE STATEMENT I am seeking election to the Board of St Helens Neighbourhood House because I believe the House plays a vital role in supporting and strengthening our community, and I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to its future. As a long-term local resident and a regular participant in the Neighbourhood House, I have seen firsthand the important role it plays in strengthening our community. I value the welcoming, inclusive environment it provides and would be honoured to contribute to its ongoing success. My background includes serving as Secretary (about to be President) and strategic organiser for Break O’Day Artists Inc, past Treasurer and current President for the Friends of the History Room and Museum, and coordinator of multiple community arts events, all of which required clear communication, transparent decision‑making and reliable organisational oversight. Professionally, I have worked across bookkeeping, hospitality management, training, and business ownership, giving me a strong foundation in financial literacy, compliance, staff support and operational problem‑solving. I am committed to building inclusive, well‑run community organisations where members, volunteers and service users feel respected, informed and engaged. My experience in drafting committee documents, managing events, coordinating stakeholders and maintaining governance standards equips me to contribute meaningfully to the Board of St Helens Neighbourhood House. ### QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE Over the past nine years I have served on a number of not-for-profit boards and committees, including several Treasurer positions. These roles have provided practical experience in financial management, strategic planning, governance, risk management and organisational compliance. They have also reinforced the importance of ensuring organisations remain financially sustainable, well governed and focused on delivering meaningful outcomes for the communities they serve. My combination of governance experience and local knowledge allows me to understand both the strategic responsibilities of a board and the practical needs of the people who use the Neighbourhood House. I believe in collaborative leadership, open communication, and making decisions that reflect the interests of the wider community. I believe this is an opportunity to help build a positive, respectful and forward-looking future for the House, working collaboratively with members, volunteers, staff and the wider community. ### OFFICE BEARER INTEREST The following signals interest only; it does not commit the candidate or the Board. PresidentNoVice PresidentNoTreasurerNoSecretaryNoPublic OfficerNoOrdinary Board MemberYes ##### Suzanna van den Heuvel ### CANDIDATE STATEMENT My intention to nominate as a board member is an extension of my 11 year volunteering role at the St Helens Neighbourhood Op Shop. The necessary groundwork is now in place and I would like to be part of the team who steer our Neighbourhood House forward from this point to all it should and can be. ### QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE - Registered Nursing (Hospital & Community) & Midwifery - Assessment, Coordination, Provision & Evaluation of In-Home Care (Carer Respite Care – Sunshine Coast, RSL Home Care – S/C, Range Care – Blackall Range) - Training qualifications enabled me to teach ESL in China. - JP (Qual) Qld - OH&S Officer - Diversional Therapist - Healing Touch Practitioner I am currently on the – - St Helens Hospital Auxiliary Committee - Scamander Bowls Club Committee I am well-travelled mother and grandmother, who had Dutch parents, and grew up and worked in a multicultural region. I have a broad scope of knowledge and acceptance of cultural diversity. I have always volunteered in some capacity (Red Cross Blood Bank, op shops and privately) during my working life and since retiring to St Helens. ### OFFICE BEARER INTEREST The following signals interest only; it does not commit the candidate or the Board. PresidentNoVice PresidentNoTreasurerNoSecretaryNoPublic OfficerNoOrdinary Board MemberYes