The essence of Healthy Land and Water is its people. We are a passionate team of leaders, scientists and engineers dedicated to improving and protecting South East Queensland’s environment.
Board of Directors
Stephen Robertson
Stephen Robertson is a consulting expert in environmental sustainability and natural resource management and was named inaugural chairman of Healthy Land and Water in 2016. Previous to joining Healthy Land and Water, Stephen was a state government minister for 13 years and was responsible for portfolios including energy, water, natural resources, mines, trade health and emergency services.
Stephen is highly regarded for his insight and for his ability to identify emerging challenges and develop strategies to effectively deal with them. He is passionate about community engagement and collaboration and is dedicated to finding science-based solutions to environmental issues affecting South East Queensland and beyond.
Other roles:
- Chairman of NRM Regions Queensland
- Non-executive Director of Greening Australia
Cameron Costello
Cameron Costello is a Quandamooka man from Moreton Bay, Queensland, who brings a deep knowledge of First Nations people’s role in natural and cultural resource management to the Healthy Land and Water Board.
He has over 15 years’ experience delivering First Nation policies and programs including the establishment of the Queensland Government’s Backing Indigenous Arts Program, the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair and the Black Diamonds Program for Brisbane City Council. Cameron is also Chair of Healthy Land and Water’s Indigenous Engagement Committee.
Most recently, Cameron completed seven years as the CEO for the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC).
In 2020, Cameron received both the Griffith University Outstanding First Nation Peoples Alumnus Award and the University of Queensland Indigenous Community Impact Award.
Melissa Impiazzi
Melissa is a senior executive and consultant with over 20 years’ experience gained in Australia and the United Kingdom in financial services, asset management, recruitment and change management. Her career to date has focused on business development and the strategic management of key client and stakeholder relationships.
During her eight years at QIC, Melissa predominantly focused on the strategic management of their foundation clients including many key Queensland state bodies and associated organisations. Her non-executive director experience has been gained in the philanthropic, social venture and not-for-profit sectors. She is a Director of the Board of Governors for the Queensland Community Foundation (QCF) and has served on the Queensland Advisory Committee at Social Ventures Australia (SVA).
Melissa holds a Graduate Diploma of Applied Finance and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Melissa is excited to join Healthy Land and Water and work towards our strategic goals of sustainability and growth for the future.
Nadia O’Carroll
Nadia O’Carroll is a qualified accountant with experience in chartered accountancy, academic administration and as a self employed professional. Nadia was Division 2 Councillor for the Scenic Rim Regional Council from 2012 to 2020. During her term in council she held positions as Finance Chair and Deputy Mayor as well as being appointed to a number of committees including Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Community Advisory Committee.
Nadia has a long history of volunteering in the not for profit sector including emergency services, natural environment, animal welfare, citizen science, arts and culture, sport and public health.
With a strong interest in the natural environment, science and biodiversity Nadia is passionate about the role of Healthy Land and Water in improving social and environmental outcomes in South East Queensland and beyond.
Simon Warner
Simon Warner is an experienced Director and corporate executive. Simon has a history of successfully leading and managing both corporate and not for profit enterprises. He is currently Executive Chairman of an enterprise software company, Tactiv Pty Ltd. Previously he was Chief Executive Officer and Director of SEQ Catchments Ltd.
Simon has a Business degree and a post graduate qualification in IT and has spent a good deal of his working career in executive roles ranging from IR to Logistics and Operations management. He has also worked closely with government on policy and regional planning issues including overseeing the development of the South-East Queensland Rural Futures Strategy and the SEQ Regional NRM plan.
He is passionate about agricultural sustainability and innovative ways to fund and support positive social and environmental outcomes. Simon lives at Murphys Creek in the Lockyer Valley and operates a small grazing holding in addition to his corporate activities.
Nikki Poteri-Collie
Nikki Poteri-Collie is a senior leader with more than 25 years’ experience building the strategic and financial success of organisations across the water, energy, mining and industrial sectors. With a diverse background gained in large corporations and government agencies, Nikki brings extensive experience across commercial and financial management, strategy and business planning as well as marketing and business development.
In addition to her board role at Healthy Land and Water, Nikki is General Manager Finance, Strategy and Growth, Asset Services with Downer EDI Limited. Prior to joining Downer, Nikki held executive roles with Seqwater and Thiess.
With a passion for the environment and the health of Australia’s precious waterways, Nikki is driven to apply her experience and skills to ensure the enduring success of Healthy Land and Water so that it continues to deliver for future generations.
Rhett Duncan
Rhett Duncan has more than 15 years’ leadership experience at executive and general management levels. In his role as Executive Manager Customer Delivery at Unitywater, he is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the water supply and sewerage systems to provide reliable services to customers.
Rhett has previously worked in Waste Management, Transport Infrastructure and Construction Materials and led teams in challenging and changing business environments.
He is experienced in working across all levels from the Board to the front line with a demonstrated track record for engaging, building and leading teams that deliver results in challenging and changing business environments.
Executive Team
Julie McLellan
Julie McLellan has been the Chief Executive Officer of Healthy Land and Water since its inception in 2013. Julie has over 25 years’ experience leading high-performance organisations and is an expert in waterway management, governance, strategy, risk and company finance.
Prior to her role at Healthy Land and Water, Julie held senior positions at Queensland Urban Utilities and Brisbane City Council and was responsible for portfolios including research and businesses development, innovation, service delivery and design.
Julie is passionate about improving the quality of landscapes and waterways in South East Queensland through strategic initiatives and productive partnerships. She understands the importance of collaboration and enjoys working closely with all levels of government, industry groups and community members on initiatives that ensure South East Queensland is protected for future generations.
Dr Andrew O’Neill
Dr Andrew O’Neill is Healthy Land and Water’s Chief Operating Officer. He is responsible for driving innovation and guiding Healthy Land and Water’s talented scientists and engineers as they work to improve South East Queensland’s environment. Andrew is an expert in sustainable urban water management and water sensitive urban design and is recognised globally for his innovative work in building leadership and technical skills in professionals and students.
Andrew has a proven track record of designing and delivering award-winning integrated water policy and water sensitive urban design projects and has researched and delivered projects in many countries around the world. Andrew is passionate about collaboration and utilising science to improve education, policy and services in the community.
Key initiatives
- Water by Design
- Erosion and Sediment Control
- Living Waterways
Michele Clatworthy
In the role of Chief Financial Officer, Michele Clatworthy’s primary responsibility is to provide leadership and strategic advice to internal and external stakeholders and manage the deliverables of the financial services team. Michele has over 25 years of executive and board level experience across the commercial and not for profit sectors. As well as Chief Financial Officer, she has previously acted as Company Secretary and National Strategic Advisor and Member of various Committees for the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS).
Michele is an expert at leading strategic development, governance frameworks and financial management and has a passion for supporting the considerable contributions of the not for profit sector. She has represented the professional issues and needs of CPA members as a past a member of CPA Australia (QLD) commerce committee. She is also a volunteer director promoting improved social and emotional wellbeing outcomes for children. As an experienced transformation leader who understands the importance of building empowered teams, Michele will apply her considerable business experience to Healthy Land and Waters’ strategic priorities to protect and enhance South East Queensland’s natural assets.
Michele has a Master of Business Administration, a Graduate Diploma in Applied Corporate Governance, a Bachelor of Business in Accountancy and is a Fellow of the CPA and a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Portfolio Management
Thiago Ferreira
- E: thiago.f@hlw.org.au
- T (07) 3177 9100
Daniela Yamaguti
Daniela is Portfolio Coordinator at Healthy Land & Water, and her role is implementing Strategic Portfolio Management, best practices, and continuous improvement. With 15 years of experience in project management, business analyst and integration systems, she committed to bring better project controls and decisions.
Her value is wellbeing, personal and professional. Constantly searching/creating new ways to be and feel better, healthier, and wealthier.
Daniela holds a Bachelor of Accountant (Hons), a Master’s degree in Business Management, a Diploma in Project Management and a certification as Scrum Master.
Strategic Science and Partnership
Dr Grace Muriuki
Dr Grace Muriuki is the Strategic Science Manager at Healthy Land and Water. As Strategic Science Manager, Grace provides a focal point for Healthy Land and Water’s scientific rigour, regional strategy, presence and growth in monitoring and research. She guides a significant portfolio of environmental research and practice for advancing natural resource management. Grace has a passion for the science strategy underpinning natural resource management, especially in a millennium of large and complex threats to sustainable development.
Grace holds a PhD in Geography, Planning and Environmental Management (University of Queensland), a Master of Science, and a Bachelor of Agriculture – Range Management (University of Nairobi, Kenya). She enjoys working with diverse stakeholder networks and is passionate about co-design and the application of science in policy and development. A trans-disciplinary researcher with quantitative, spatial, and social science qualifications, Grace has delivered projects and published widely on natural resources, sustainability, urbanisation, land use, food systems, migration, and energy.
Bringing over twenty years’ experience to the role, Grace has worked in a range of research, program, project management, and consulting roles. Prior to joining Healthy Land and Water she worked as a Research Fellow at the University of Queensland’s School of Agriculture and Food Science and Sustainable Minerals Institute and as a Program Manager at the University of Queensland’s Global Change Institute. She has held various roles at the Queensland Government’s Department of Environment and Resource Management and Crime and Corruption Commission and has worked as a Research Scientist at CSIRO. Before that, Grace had worked on resource and agriculture development projects in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Grace is a passionate volunteer in her professional domains, mentoring in culturally and linguistically diverse groups and in the community as a Rotarian.
Joel Bolzenius
Joel draws on over 20 years’ experience in the field of natural resource management across Queensland, having guided significant policy development and investment into coastal and catchment management by all levels of government as well as initiatives funded by philanthropic and commercial sectors.
He possesses a unique skillset and is experienced in bringing together scientists, government, First Nations, multi-national corporations, and community for effective policy, planning, business, and on-ground environmental restoration outcomes.
Passionate about empowering and supporting Traditional Owners to realise aspirations for Country, Joel has a track record of delivering holistic and transformative outcomes for landscapes through collaborative and effective partnership arrangements.
- E: joel.b@hlw.org.au
- M: 0457 104 997
Knowledge Research
Shannon Mooney
Shannon Mooney is Healthy Land and Water’s Team Leader for Knowledge Research. Shannon is responsible for driving innovation and working with Healthy Land and Water’s scientists and engineers to harness data and knowledge and use it to inform the next generation of natural resource management.
Shannon is an expert in data mapping, analysis and interpretation. He utilises his experience and knowledge to interpret complex data, and provides his findings to internal and external stakeholders which enables more insightful planning and decision-making.
- E: shannon.m@hlw.org.au
- P: 07 3177 9116
Key initiatives
- Data Analysis
Dr Emily Saeck
Dr Emily Saeck is the Principal Scientist – Ecosystem Health Monitoring Program with Healthy Land and Water. This program monitors and models water quality, habitat condition, human health and social/economic benefits of waterways in South East Queensland. This research and data contributes to the annual Healthy Land and Water Report Card.
Dr Saeck has more than 15 years’ experience in marine science. Upon graduating with a degree in zoology and ecology, Dr Saeck joined Healthy Land and Water in 2004 to assist with the management of its science program and the development of science communication products.
Key initiatives
- Ecosystem Health Monitoring Program
- Report Card
Dr Wing (Iris) Tsoi
In her role as Senior Scientist at Healthy Land and Water, Dr Wing (Iris) Tsoi monitors waterway condition in South East Queensland and is involved in developing the annual Healthy Land and Water Report Card.
Dr Tsoi has 15 years experience in aquatic ecosystem health. She has been responsible for various aquatic monitoring and research projects across South East Queensland and the Murray Darling Basin. Dr Tsoi specialises in the design and assessment of mechanisms that drive responses of water quality, ecosystem processes and biological patterns to different environmental pressures.
In 2014, Dr Tsoi completed her PhD in Freshwater Science and also maintains a research portfolio focusing on food webs, zooplankton and macroinvertebrate in freshwater ecosystems.
Key initiatives
- Ecosystem Health Monitoring Program
- Report Card
Maddie George
Maddie George is a Scientist – Ecology and Culture at Healthy Land and Water who specialises in project management, planning and policy support, data analysis and GIS mapping.
She provides support to several Healthy Land and Water initiatives including social and economic monitoring for the Ecosystem Health Monitoring Program, supporting Traditional Owner land and sea country management and the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding with the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation.
Maddie grew up in Central Queensland where she developed a passion for marine and coastal environments.
In 2019, Maddie completed a Bachelor of Applied Biology.
- maddie.g@hlw.org.au
Key initiatives
- Project management
- Planning and policy support
- Data analysis
- GIS mapping
Jack Coates-Marnane
Dr Jack Coates-Marnane is a Scientist principally supporting the Ecosystem Health Monitoring Program (EHMP) and the production of the annual Report Card.
Jack has conducted applied research across waterways of South East Queensland to support improved natural resource management decision making. This has included research to improve our understanding of the frequency and impact of high-magnitude floods. He has also developed State of Environment Reports for the State of Victoria, while working for the Victorian Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability.
Jack completed a PhD at the Australian Rivers Institute in 2017 and holds a Bachelor of Marine Studies (Hons) from the University of Queensland.
Melissa Walker
Melissa Walker is a Scientist and Knowledge Innovations Officer at Healthy Land and Water. Melissa helps implement and manage Healthy Land and Water’s open data portal, which provides complex information in a clear and easy to understand format for clients and the community. She also works to support several Healthy Land and Water initiatives including Grazing BMP, the Environmental Health Monitoring Program, the South East Queensland Natural Resource Management Plan, citizen science, habitat modelling and fire management planning.
In 2011, Melissa completed a Bachelor of Environmental Management (Hons) in Sustainable Development.
Key initiatives
- Data Analysis
- Report Card
Michael Castiglione
Michael is a graduate scientist in the Knowledge Research team, providing support for the South East Queensland Natural Resource Management Plan, the Ecosystem Health Monitoring Program (EHMP), and Science Committee.
Michael is passionate about the law, environmental management and exercise. He enjoys understanding how the law works, how it effects people and how it manages natural resources. He studied law and science because he sees legal change as critical in protecting our environment.
Michael wants to see the law change to better protect and manage natural resources so they can be enjoyed for years to come.
Azrai Parish-Perandis
Azrai Parish-Perandis is a Scientist in Healthy Land & Water’s Knowledge Research team.
With over three years’ experience, Az is an early professional who has proven track record in leading and supporting in successful ongoing environmental monitoring programs and assessments in Queensland and the Northern Territory.
Az has led and supported a variety of clients across a diverse range of programs, which has given him a broad skillset and understanding of environmental challenges.
He has led multi-year water monitoring programs and supported threatened species assessments, bio-condition assessments, land capability assessments and cultural heritage assessments.
Az holds a Bachelor of Science from QUT and has a passion for conserving and improving natural environmental and cultural values.
Climate Adaptation
Rachael Nasplezes
Rachael Nasplezes leads Healthy Land & Water’s Climate Adaptation. Rachael is a Senior Scientist specialising in behaviour change, co-design, strategic planning and stakeholder relations. With over 20 years’ experience in natural resource and catchment management and sustainable business development, Rachael is an expert in project delivery and strategic program integration and has a proven track record of managing projects and programs that improve the quality of waterways and communities across Queensland.
Rachael is passionate about collaboration and she works closely with government, industry, the community, and schools to drive innovative projects that deliver environmental, social, and economic benefits for Queensland. Rachael has worked around the world on various capacity-building initiatives and is a wildlife biologist by trade. She holds a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) and has completed a New Venture Leadership Certificate from world-renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Key initiatives
- Clean Up Program
- Brisbane River Recovery
- Environmentally Friendly Moorings
- Fish Habitat Map
- Love Brisbane River
- go2zone
Dr Samantha Lloyd
Dr Samantha Lloyd is the manager of the Queensland Fire and Biodiversity Consortium (QFBC), a program administered by Healthy Land and Water. Dr Lloyd has 20 years’ experience in research and environmental management with a focus on ecology, entomology, bushfire, disaster recovery and natural resource management.
Sam has undertaken two stints as an Entomologist for the New Zealand Fire Ant Control Program and in 2009, Sam became the Coordinator of the Moreton Bay Oil Spill Environmental Restoration Program. Sam has a keen interest in land management, fire ecology, plant-insect interactions, weed and pest management and entomology.
Key initiatives
- Queensland Fire and Biodiversity Consortium
Jaime Kruusmaa
Jaime Kruusmaa is a Scientist specialising in fire ecology working in the Climate Adaptation team.
Jaime has over 10 years’ experience across the environmental sector, including fire management, community engagement and threatened species monitoring. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (Wildlife Management and
Conservation Management) and a Master of Social Change and Development.
Jaime’s role involves facilitating the establishment of the Queensland Fire and Biodiversity Consortium into south west Queensland and providing support to the Queensland Fire and Biodiversity Consortium team.
Jaime is passionate about community change and working with stakeholders to achieve a holistic approach to conservation and environmental outcomes.
- jaime.k@hlw.org.au
Dr Diana Virkki
Dr Diana Virkki is Principal Scientist – Bushfire Resilience in Healthy Land and Water’s Climate Adaptation team. Diana provides technical expertise in the fields of bushfire management and mitigation, fire ecology, and strategic landscape and community resilience.
Diana primarily supports Healthy Land and Water’s Queensland Fire and Biodiversity Consortium, as well as across the broader Healthy Land and Water team. With almost a decade of experience working with a range of clients in the public and private sectors, Diana is an expert at providing tailored, best-practice outcomes that promote ecological and cultural values for resilient landscapes and communities.
Diana strongly believes in holistic and sustainable outcomes for the landscape and enjoys working with all stakeholders to achieve that goal across Queensland. Diana’s background is in wildlife ecology, with a specialty in fire management. Her PhD provided a foundation of understanding on contemporary fire regimes and their effects on flora, fauna and habitat structural features in open eucalypt forests in South East Queensland.
Key initiatives
- Queensland Fire and Biodiversity Consortium.
- Township Fire Management Strategy – Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation.
- Black Summer Bushfire Recovery.
Karen Toms
In her role as Senior Scientist at Healthy Land and Water, Karen Toms supports the Water by Design program.
Karen works closely with community groups, stakeholders and organisations and provides them with the skills, capacity and knowledge necessary to successfully complete environmental restoration projects in the Brisbane, Redlands and Moreton regions. Karen is skilled at coordinating, delivering, monitoring, evaluating and reporting on projects in close consultations with government, corporate and commercial partners.
Karen has almost 15 years’ experience in environmental project management throughout North Queensland, South East Queensland and New South Wales. She is passionate about working with community groups to achieve positive changes for the environment.
Biodiversity Conservation
Paul Donatiu
Paul Donatiu leads the Biodiversity Conservation team at Healthy Land and Water who manages projects in the Gold Coast region. Paul is a conservation expert and oversees critical projects which help protect lowland subtropical rainforest, restore threatened species habitat, improve water quality and monitor the health of marine and forest ecosystems. Paul also delivers educational workshops on a range of natural resource management topics which are designed to build the skills of landholders and the community.
Paul has a background in architecture, psychology and environmental management and has worked in community development and for conservation groups including the National Parks Association of Queensland and Protect the Bush Alliance.
Bruce Lord
Bruce Lord is a Principal Scientist – Sustainable Agriculture in Healthy Land and Water’s Biodiversity Conservation team and a Regional Agricultural Landcare Facilitator. Bruce Lord has a pivotal role in guiding the organisation’s on-ground projects. Bruce has over 22 years’ experience in natural resource management, project management and community engagement, and is one of Healthy Land and Water’s longest-serving employees.
Bruce is responsible for coordinating projects and activities in the northern area of South East Queensland, including delivery of the Grazing BMP workshops and other projects such as the Green Army program and the 20 Million Trees program.
Bruce is deeply knowledgeable about soil health, erosion and salinity management, vegetation and habitat management, riparian restoration, weeds and pest eradication.
Key initiatives
- Grazing BMP
Marc Leman
Marc Leman is a Senior Project Manager and is delivering the Building Drought Resilience program being rolled out by Healthy Land and Water across the region.
With over 30 years’ experience in the agriculture sector, Marc brings a wealth of experience and on ground knowledge to the team.
He has previously worked with the Lockyer Valley Regional Council as the local Drought Support Officer.
Marc spent 16 years as an agronomist specialising in pasture and broadacre cropping in central west New South Wales before relocating to South East Queensland. He is now a Gatton local and has lived in the region for 20 years.
- E: marc.l@hlw.org.au
- T: 0417 643 586
Liz Gould
Liz Gould is a Senior Principal Scientist at Healthy Land and Water who specialises in nature conservation. Liz works within the Biodiversity Conservation team and has almost 30 years of experience in natural resource policy and practice. Throughout her lengthy career, Liz has worked within state and local governments and is one of Healthy Land and Water’s longest-serving employees.
Liz is skilled in stakeholder engagement and project delivery and is an expert at using her networks and knowledge to leverage additional resources from corporate, government and philanthropic partners. Liz is deeply passionate about conservation and has a proven track record of delivering complex, multi-year and cross-regional programs and projects that help preserve South East Queensland’s environment.
Key initiatives
- The Wild Macadamia Hunt
- Gondwana Rainforests of Australia
Vanessa Smolders
Vanessa has over 20 years’ experience in grazing and rangelands. She has also worked in dryland cropping and horticulture.
Her role is to support sustainable agricultural initiatives in her RALF role as well as working on sustainable agricultural projects throughout the SEQ catchment.
Vanessa is passionate about supporting farmers & graziers in South East Queensland in achieving sustainability outcomes.
Chelsea Kluske
Chelsea Kluske is a Senior Scientist at Healthy Land and Water on the Biodiversity Conservation team. Her role supports the delivery of projects that help strengthen the resilience of South-east Queensland’s threatened flora, fauna and vegetation communities.
Chelsea is passionate about conserving the stunning and unique biodiversity of SEQ and has a multi-disciplinary background having worked on threatened species management programs and consulting on ecological and environmental complexities associated with infrastructure developments.
- E: Chelsea.k@hlw.org.au
- M: 0439 767 497
Patrick Malone
Patrick Malone is a Project Manager at Healthy Land and Water who manages projects in the Moreton Bay and Redland Bay region. Patrick oversees critical projects which help protect coastal biodiversity through the restoration of threatened ecological communities and the reduction of threats from feral animals. Patrick also delivers workshops on a range of natural resource management topics which are designed to build the skills of landholders and the community and promote collaboration amongst natural resource managers.
Patrick has a diverse skill set in botanical and fauna surveys, soil analysis, ecological restoration planning, landscape planning, professional report writing, and community engagement. Organisations he has previously worked for include Conservation Volunteers Australia, Envirosphere Consulting and the City of Gold Coast. His experience and qualifications as an Urban and Environmental Planner are demonstrated through his practical approach to conservation and natural resource management.
Key initiatives
- Regional Land Partnerships program (Moreton Bay Ramsar)
- Queensland Biodiversity and Fire Consortium
Land Restoration
Dennis Gannaway
Dennis Gannaway is a Senior Scientist at Healthy Land and Water and Team Leader for the Land Restoration team with decades of experience managing large-scale projects. Dennis manages projects in the southern and western regions of South East Queensland and is an expert in invasive species management, habitat restoration and community engagement.
Dennis works alongside researchers and academics to translate science into practical delivery tools for on-ground projects. He also collaborates with landholders and catchments groups to develop their land management skills and empowers them to help improve and protect South East Queensland’s environment.
Key initiatives
- Riparian Weed Control Program
Mark Waud
Mark Waud is a Principal Scientist – Innovative Land Restoration with Healthy Land and Water who specialises in large scale restoration projects. Mark works with the Land Restoration team delivering erosion control, ecological restoration and invasive species control projects to restore and protect our environment.
Mark is passionate about integrating technology into projects to ensure better decision making, bring people with common objectives together and achieve great outcomes in South East Queensland.
In 2018, Mark completed a Diploma of Project Management through Australian Institute of Management.
Key initiatives
Mid Brisbane Partnerships programSamille Loch-Wilkinson
Samille Loch-Wilkinson is a Senior Scientist Engineer with the Land Restoration team at Healthy Land and Water. With 17 years’ experience in engineering, consulting and project management, Samille brings a unique set of skills and insight to the environmental sector.
Samille recently completed a Masters in Environmental Management, majoring in Conservation and Natural Resource Management and was awarded the Deans’s Commendation for Academic Excellence in 2017, 2018 and 2019. She also holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) and a Graduate Certificate in Business and Technology.
Samille is passionate about the environment and thoroughly enjoys working with and learning from people to deliver projects in South East Queensland.
Dr Robert Chataway
Robert Chataway has an extensive background in research, development and extension in the dairy industry and has experience investigating strategies to reduce the off-farm movement of sediment, nutrients and pesticides with the grains cropping and sugarcane farming industry.
Rob studied applied science with a focus on grazing animal production. He completed a PhD in the early 2000s looking at a range of practices to rebuild soil capacity on dairy farms on the Darling Downs.
He seeks to address environmental issues such as soil fertility rundown, water use efficiency, nutrient management and riparian issues.
Rob hopes to use the skills and experience he has acquired across various industries in his role with Healthy Land and Water.
Amy George
Dr Amy George is a Senior Scientist with the Land Restoration Team. With over 25 years’ experience she is an environmental scientist with a passion for building and maintaining healthy environments.
Amy specializes in driving and delivering science-based solutions through integrating science, communication, and management underpinned by comprehensive technical expertise. As a natural problem solver, she thrives in working collaboratively to find solutions with wide ranging benefits.
- E: amy.g@hlw.org.au
- M: 0448 721 404
Tom Lally
Tom Lally is a Project Officer in Healthy Land & Water’s Land Restoration team, leading restoration projects across the region that focus on enhancing the habitat of threatened species, managing invasive species and improving ecosystem and catchment health.
Previously, Tom has led ecological restoration field teams across South East Queensland and has completed post graduate qualifications in wildlife and landscape ecology. Tom is passionate about the science-driven protection and restoration of Australia’s incredible flora, fauna and landscapes.
With his diverse field experience and passion for community engagement, Tom hopes he can make a valuable contribution to the protection and preservation of the natural assets of South East Queensland.
Hannah Sherlock
- E: hannah.s@hlw.org.au
- M: 0419 951 434
Leonard Ainsworth
Leonard is a Project Officer for Healthy Land and Waters Land Restoration team.
Leonard’s background is in terrestrial ecology, providing consultancy advice to the public and private sectors.
- E: leonard.a@hlw.org.au
- M: 0483 371 671
Jordan Green
Jordan is a Project Officer for Healthy Land & Waters Land Restoration team. She has a strong background in urban wildlife management and implementing habitat enhancement projects in the public sector.
Jordan is passionate about whole-of-community involvement in conservation and improving regional biodiversity outcomes and strives for purposeful and empathetic approaches to complex challenges.
- E: jordan.g@hlw.org.au
- M: 0483 111 520
Environmental Offsets Team
Ross Bigwood
Ross Bigwood is Healthy Land and Water’s Development Manager – Environmental Offsets. Ross has over 20 years’ experience in grazing land management, soil conservation, stream rehabilitation and stakeholder engagement.
Ross is responsible for coordinating and delivering rehabilitation programs and projects in rural catchments throughout South East Queensland. Utilising his expert engagement skills, Ross collaborates closely with stakeholders and landholders to build their capacity, knowledge and skills to sustainably manage land and improve water quality in the region.
Key initiatives
Healthy Catchments programVanessa Durand
Vanessa Durand is a Project Engineer within the Environmental Offsets Team at Healthy Land and Water. Vanessa specialises in projects aimed at reducing sediment and nutrient runoff entering South East Queensland’s waterways.
Vanessa has 10 years of engineering experience and been involved in a range of projects aimed at minimising ongoing impacts on waterways and the sensitive receiving environments including ex-Cyclone Debbie Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements and the Healthy Country Program.
In 2016, Vanessa completes her Master’s in Integrated Water Management.
Key initiatives
- The Wild Macadamia Hunt
Margie Dickson
Margie Dickson is a Project Engineer in the Environmental Offsets team at Healthy Land & Water. Margie completed her Bachelor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Queensland and has four years’ experience as a consulting engineer in infrastructure approvals and project development.
She supports the delivery of projects which prevent sediment and nutrient runoff from entering waterways, supporting healthier ecosystems, more efficient water and wastewater services and creating shared value for communities. Margie is passionate about putting her skills to work delivering on-ground projects that protect and regenerate catchments and waterways around South East Queensland.
Marketing and Communications
Suzi Moore
Suzi Moore is Team Leader – Marketing and Communications at Healthy Land and Water. She leads the communications team, delivering a robust communications and marketing approach with a strong stakeholder focus for the organisation.
She joins us from the agricultural and energy optimisation sectors, where she specialised in strategic planning, crisis management, media relations, product marketing, stakeholder engagement, change management, policy lobbying and market intelligence.
- E: suzi.m@hlw.org.au
- M: 0427 641 239
Georgia Glidden
Georgia Glidden is a Marketing and Communications Coordinator at Healthy Land & Water who specialises in science communication and creative design. She is passionate about making science accessible and engaging for all audiences and finding creative communication solutions to improve education around environmental issues.
Georgia also supports the Water by Design program, working with the Climate Adaptation team part time.
She has a dual background in science and communications, holding a Bachelor of Science (Zoology) and a Master of Communication (SciComm) from The University of Queensland.
- E: georgia.g@hlw.org.au
- T: 07 3177 9100
Kelly McDonough
Kelly McDonough is our Events Officer for the Healthy Land and Water team. She will work collaboratively with all team members across the organisation to deliver events that meet high expectations.
Kelly has worked in the Event industry for the last 20 years in both the private and government sectors. She has previous experience organising events in the water industry to build capacity for Integrated Water Management.
Kelly is passionate about delivering workshops and events relevant to industry needs that strengthen the relationships between Healthy Land and Water, Stakeholders and the Community within Southeast Queensland.
Karis Leung
Karis Leung a dedicated communications officer with experience in both in-house and agency roles in the digital space.
Armed with Organic brand building and PPC expertise, Karis loves telling stories that bring a bit of light to a dark news cycle with online and offline activities.
- E: karis.l@hlw.org.au
- T: (07) 3177 9111
Alberta Guadagnini
Alberta Guadagnini is a Marketing and Communications Coordinator at Healthy Land & Water who is incredibly passionate about sustainability and the environment. She is an enthusiastic and tenacious multi-lingual marketing professional, with an extensive global portfolio of relevant successful experience in all aspects of communication and marketing.
Some of her career highlights include the coordination, management and roll out of advertising and marketing strategies for several international brands on their network.
Alberta holds an MBA, a Diploma of Management & Project Management, and has over ten years’ experience in marketing, communications, and events. She loves to travel, dance, practice yoga and can speak four languages
- E: alberta.g@hlw.org.au
- T: (07) 3177 9131
Corporate Services
Noeme Evans
Noeme Evans coordinates and advises Healthy Land and Water’s Board on corporate governance administrative and regulatory requirements. Complimentary to her role, she also manages compliance and quality management.
Noeme’s admissions to the legal professions include Australia and New Zealand, having practiced for 12 years as a lawyer, together with certification level of a Chartered Company Secretary.
She delivers a skill set borne from a worldly background of experience, having engaged in a wide variety of professional development. She is a member of the Queensland Law Society and associate member of the New Zealand Governance Institute.
While very process driven, she engages in a deeper understanding about the theory behind the “check box” in execution of risk monitoring within the organisation. Noeme is well-travelled in Asia having hiked several mountains and has an adoration of bird life and the preservation of our native species.
Cathy Brinkley
Cathy is a Senior Finance Officer who has over 15 years’ experience as a senior team manager in business services and finance roles in the not for profit sector.
Responsible for the operational and transactional elements of Healthy Land and Water’s finance, Cathy oversees the organisation’s accounts, payroll, monthly reconciliations and the integrity and accuracy of the General Ledger.
She also leads and manages the team of IT and Facilities Officer, Payroll and Finance Officer and Receptionist/Administration, while also providing support to the Finance team to deliver on their activities as directed by the Finance Manager and the CFO.
Cathy is passionate about creating a business services “engine room” that is efficient and effective, maximises the team’s skills and abilities and truly supports Healthy Land and Water through excellent internal and external customer service.
Tim Lloyd
Tim Lloyd is a Chartered Accountant with more than four years’ experience in the not-for-profit and public accounting sectors.
Tim’s primary responsibility is to assist Healthy Land Water’s various project teams with financial reporting, budgeting and forecasting.
He enjoys assisting the teams with their financial reporting needs and is driven to continually improve.
Rachel Quinn
Ali McNiven
Ali McNiven leads the People & Culture function at Healthy Land & Water and is responsible for the design, development, and implementation of strategy for exceptional and progressive people practices and systems that underpin growth.
She has a broad range of practice, delivering strategically aligned people initiatives and programs, organisational change, engagement, learning & development, talent acquisition, and employment relations for complex global organisations.
Ali holds a Master of Business in Human Resource Management. She is a key driver for change and is both adaptable and collaborative in her approach. Her passion for the values and culture at Healthy Land & Water helps to create a clear vision for the organisation.
Eric Nguyen
Eric Nguyen is Workplace Health & Safety Lead at Healthy Land & Water. Eric has over five years’ experience working in commercial construction in both Project Safety Advisor and WHS&E Manager capacities.
Eric’s primary responsibility is to develop, implement and maintain the WHS management system ensuring it is functioning as intended to internal and external stakeholders. He provides additional oversight and advice for complex situations.
Eric has expertise in WHS legislation and WHS system development and is passionate about proving that excellent safety can significantly excel productivity in a business.