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Jennifer Bott AO

Chair

Jenny is an experienced mentor, arts leader and consultant. She has recently chaired the Review of the future impact and sustainability of Sturt Gallery and Studios as well as bring a founding Director of the Board of the Southern Highland’s regional gallery, Ngununggula. Currently she is also on the Board of the Australian National Academy of Music.

Over her career, Jenny has chaired the Bundanon Trust, NIDA and been CEO of the Australia Council for the Arts, Musica Viva and the National Portrait Gallery of Australia as well as many other roles.

Michael Walker MICDA

Director / Treasurer / Chair Data & Research Committee

With a background in mathematical statistics, Mike initially worked in the field of operations research in the public and private sectors, specialising in optimisation of distribution systems. He later held senior marketing and management roles in the paint industry and the banking industry. In 1984, he commenced his own management consulting practice, specialising in industrial market research, marketing and business planning. He has consulted to a wide range of clients in markets across Australia and New Zealand.

Annabel White

Director / Chair Grants Committee

Annabel moved to Berrima in the Southern Highlands in 2012. Annabel has extensive experience in the philanthropic and not for profit sectors in Australia and is a keen supporter of grassroots initiatives. Annabel is passionate about working together with other community organisations, individuals and government, leveraging support to create what is needed for flourishing communities. Prior to her career in philanthropy, Annabel worked in publishing and the media.

Peter Roach

Director / Chair Finance & Audit Committee

Peter moved to the Southern Highlands in 2017. Originally from Sydney, he served as CEO of a large Family Office from 2000 to 2012. In conjunction with this role, Peter was a Non-Executive Director of Rural Press Limited and Landis+Gyr AG.

Emma Calver

Director / Chair ER Committee

Emma is a community relations and marketing specialist who was Head of Enrolments and Community Relations at a Southern Highlands’ independent school for more than 15 years. Originally a film and television producer, Emma moved to Robertson with her husband and three small children 26 years ago and has been a passionate member of the community, volunteering at numerous organisations within the Southern Highlands including Joynt Youth Action, Relay for Life and the Robertson CTC. To build a strong community, Emma understands the importance of grassroots involvement and fostering a feeling of belonging and connection.

Christopher Brown AM

Director

Christopher Brown AM is Honorary Chair of not-for-profit regional think tank, the Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue. He is also Executive Chair of national strategy firm, Taylor Street Advisory. Christopher retired recently as Pro-Chancellor of Western Sydney University (WSU) after eight years as a Trustee Director and he chaired WSU’s engagement subcommittee and Academy. The university awarded him an Honorary Doctorate of Letters in recognition of his significant regional contribution in 2019 and before that was Adjunct Professor of Business at the University of Technology Sydney. Raised and educated in Parramatta, Christopher Brown AM was awarded Australian Honours for services to industry and community in 2014. He and his family now shuttle between homes on a small cattle farm in the Southern Highlands and in an old tram workshop in Rozelle.

Conor Lynch

Director

Conor has lived in the Southern Highlands for over 23 years. For the past 6 years he has been working as an Accountant serving the community in taxation and compliance. Conor is currently a member of the Berrima Residence Association overseeing the treasury function as well as member of the Charter Accountants Australia & New Zealand.

Hugh Mackay - AO

Patron

Hugh Mackay is a social researcher and bestselling author of 19 books, including The Good Life, The Art of Belonging and his latest, Australia Reimagined. Hugh resided in the Southern Highlands for many years and serves as the patron of the Southern Highlands Foundation.

Shelley Boyce - OAM

Patron

Shelley Boyce - JP, PHF, moved to the Southern Highlands in 1979 with her husband Philip, where they have lived, worked and raised their five children. Through her work as a legal administrator and her extensive work in Community Philanthropy and volunteering, she has had association with countless members of the community, government, local authorities and agencies in the Southern Highlands.