Mayor of Lake Macquarie since 2016 and Councillor since 2004, representing the East Ward. Emeritus Mayor of Lake Macquarie since 2016. Awarded the Local Government NSW Lifetime Achievement Award
Experienced director and manager across private and public sectors and Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Led major strategic initiatives that strengthened Lake Macquarie’s development as a key regional centre.
Presided over Council meetings, strengthened stakeholder collaboration, and represented Council at regional, state and Commonwealth levels.
Championed the Community Strategic Plan and encouraged broad community engagement in planning.
Served on multiple boards and committees, including the Youth Council, International Children’s Games Reference Committee, Lake Mac Awards, Business Excellence Awards, Hunter Sports Centre Board, Dantia Board, The Place Board, and Joint Organisation of Councils for the Hunter.
Advocated for cultural and religious diversity, supporting the Culturally Diverse Lake Mac Plan 2021–2024 and the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
Welcomed hundreds of new residents at citizenship ceremonies each year.
Led the Diversity, Equity and Belonging Strategy 2023–2025 and increased women’s representation in Council leadership roles.
Supported development partnerships with the University of Newcastle, Transport for NSW and regional agencies.
Helped secure more than $70 million in major infrastructure funding and supported over $1.2 billion in development approvals in 2023–2024.
Awarded “Business Leader 21 Employees and More” by Business Hunter 2024
Practical HR and industrial relations experience through workforce strategy and gender equality initiatives.
Allambi Care acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work in New South Wales, the Awabakal, Worimi and Bundjalung nations and in Victoria the Boonwurrung nation. We recognise the continuing connections to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respects to their Ancestors, Elders, families and children, who are our next leaders of a reconciled Australia. Allambi Care is committed to a Reconciled Australia, by addressing disadvantages, racism and injustice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in our community.
Allambi Care actively strives for Diversity and Inclusion across all areas of operation, with committees and working groups ensuring words and plans are put into action.