During this time of working in schools directly, running early intervention programs for youth, organising community events etc. I developed a genuine passion to engage and facilitate improved futures not only for our youth, but better outcomes for our whole community in Cairns, especially southside.

It is a privilege to work with my community now on a broader scale in the role of Divisional Councillor for Bayview Heights, Forest Gardens (Mount Sheridan), White Rock and Woree.  This is a responsibility I take seriously and continue to do my utmost to serve the local community and residents.

I have lived in Cairns for over 40 years.  I enjoy sport and the outdoors.  Having gained my black belt at Matsumoto Karate many years ago, I now engage in less aggressive activities such as hiking our local area and beyond.

Early on I worked at Wild World (Cairns Tropical Zoo, which is now closed) doing shows for the tourists.  This then led me down the path of becoming a veterinary nurse for Earlville Veterinary Surgery.  Later on, as well as running my own business, I worked at Cairns Christian College (now Freshwater Christian College) as a Personal Assistant to the Principal which gave me more time with my three daughters who attended the school.  Working amongst children and teenagers inspired me to further my career in the community service sector.

I still enjoy being involved in schools and attend 6 local school P&Cs every month, helping out as needed.  Roles including President of White Rock State School, Vice President at Cairns Special School along with general membership of Woree State School, Woree State High School, St Mary’s Catholic College and St Gerard Majella Primary School.

Working with people from various backgrounds to improve their qualify of life is something I really enjoy.  In 2008 I became involved in working with a number of children and their carers who were living in poverty in remote areas of Kenya.  Working together with some amazing supporters this small interest grew to become Boldlyigo Inc. which is now a registered ACNC Charity with DGR tax status with the Australian Government, based right here in Cairns.  I am extremely fortunate to have the support of many generous local individuals and families who support these children through a child sponsorship model, breaking the poverty cycle through education.

Being involved in local not for profit organisations as well as my own, is educating and very rewarding.

I volunteer my time as Chair of the Board for The Junction Clubhouse; a wonderful organisation that focuses on supporting members on their mental health recovery journey. 

Deputy Chair of Cairns South Together; a collective impact project supported by Mission Australia.  Focusing on finding and addressing ways to improve the future of our youth on the southside, especially the First 1,000 Days and those teen years.

Cairns River Improvement Trust member – helping farmers and landholders get support to carry out works designed to improve the flow of water in the rivers and tributaries within the region of Cairns to correct erosion and provide flood mitigation.

Along with Patron positions on local sporting clubs, support for Centacare and various cultural groups, community engagement is an enjoyable key in serving to the best of my ability.

My passion is in community development, to be able to facilitate positive improvements in people, their surrounds and find the ‘big picture’ solutions to challenges that occur both in my work locally and in the broader community.