Our People

Mr. Peter Colin Cadwallader, B.Ec, FCA

Chairman | Sydney

Appointed as a Director and Founding Chairman of the Board on 15 November 2007. Peter is the owner and Chief Executive of Intercontinental Shipping and Investment Group. He was a Board member of Opportunity International Australia for a number of years.

Mr. John Burn, B.Sc, EMBA

CEO & Managing Director | Sydney

John joined Many Rivers in October 2009. He was appointed Managing Director and CEO on 11 April 2014.

Prior to joining Many Rivers, John worked at Commonwealth Bank for 21 years, including 10 years across a range of senior leadership roles.

Ms. Kristal Kinsela, MBA, BEd (Adult Education), MAICD

Non-Executive Director | Port Macquarie

Appointed as a Non-Executive Director on 19 August 2021. Kristal is a proud and passionate Indigenous business owner and leader who enjoys connecting people and moving them into action. Through determination, resilience and hard work, Kristal built her professional career and successful consultancy business. Today, she channels her experience and energy into helping others succeed.

​A descendant of both the Jawoyn and Wiradjuri nations, Kristal brings her personal story and over 16 years of business expertise to every project. She has worked with well-known global businesses and all levels of government to drive their supplier diversity efforts, helping develop procurement plans, up-skill teams and positively impact communities. She authored the first book published in Australia on Indigenous business procurement, “Supplier Diversity How”, based on her proven approach.

A multi-award winner, Kristal has been awarded the 2019 AFR 100 Women of Influence, 2019 Indigenous Defence Leader of the Year, 2017 NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year and 2017 Supplier Diversity Advocate of the Year.

Mr. Terry Winters, FAICD

Non-Executive Director | Melbourne

Appointed as a Director on 23 September 2010. Terry is the Chairman of Converge International Pty Ltd and TasmaNet Pty Ltd and is a Director of Redflex Holdings Limited (ASX: RDF) and TSPI Development Corporation Inc, a Micro Enterprise Development NGO in the Philippines. He has over 30 years experience in operation and governance of microfinance organisations with Opportunity International Network.

Ms. Trish Botha, BA Intercultural Ministry, MBA

Non-Executive Director | Perth

Appointed as a Non-Executive Director on 19 August 2021. Trish brings a varied professional life, from banking and finance through to co-founding multiple community programs and consequently a WA-based charity, where she served as its CEO for 7 years, servicing thousands of families across Perth’s northern suburbs.

Trish also has experience in creating a nationally recognised Job Active program which sought to transition people from chronic unemployment into sustained and fulfilling vocations. After working in the Federal Government, Trish established her own business, pursuing her passion for creating economic development opportunities, particularly within the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Island community.

Trish is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander woman, with family connections to Far North Queensland.

Mr. Sinclair Taylor, LLB

Non-Executive Director | Sydney

Mr. Michael Bond, Dip Bus & Mgmt, AICD

Non-Executive Director | New Mapoon

Appointed as a Non-Executive Director on April 15, 2021.  Michael is currently the General Manager of the New Mapoon Aboriginal Corporation and founding member since 2008 and a current Shareholder on the ELY Beneficiary Mines Trust. Michael is one of 6 Community Members on the Joint Coordinating Committee for the Qld Government’s Local Thriving Communities appointed by the Deputy Premier.

He is a former Councillor and Deputy Mayor of the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council in Queensland (2008 -2012, 2016-2020). He has 27 years as a qualified TAFE Teacher in his trade as a Horticulturist, teaching throughout many North Queensland Indigenous Communities including the Torres Strait Island Communities. Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) trained and recently completed the Commissioner for Declarations.

Nathan Hawkins

Executive Team | Sydney

Head of Business Development.

Nathan has over 15 years’ experience in leadership roles across education, marketing, not-for-profit and philanthropic sectors. After an early academic career phase in public health research and teaching, Nathan moved into community-based work designing, implementing, and evaluating Government-funded public health initiatives.

Since then, he has led charities working to tackle disadvantage both nationally and internationally. He has also provided strategic marketing consulting to a variety of Australian-based companies and most recently, has helped develop growing major and principal gift philanthropic programs, working with some of Australia’s most significant philanthropists. Nathan holds a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) (Hons).

Bridget Centenera

Executive Team | Sydney

Head of Community Economic Development.

Bridget has worked in microenterprise and community development for 18 years. She has worked extensively in South-East Asia, South Asia and Africa; engaged directly with communities and with Microfinance Institutions, building capacity and developing programs. Bridget became involved with Many Rivers in 2009; since 2015 she has been leading the Many Rivers’ Community Economic Development Program with Indigenous communities in regional and remote Australia. She holds a BA and Masters in International Studies (Development Studies) and Postgraduate Certificate in Accounting and Finance.

Justin Lippiatt

Executive Team | Brisbane

Head of Microenterprise Development Program.

Justin is a Senior Executive with over 25 years’ experience working across retail, financial, NFP, education, transportation, manufacturing and more recently in the microfinance sectors. As a seasoned Chief Executive, he is experienced in managing executive teams and reporting to Company Boards.

Justin has excellent interpersonal and relationship management skills and provides strategic and commercial leadership at senior levels of organisations. He has been instrumental in driving significant growth of revenue with decreasing costs within organisations over his career. Furthermore, Justin has been a driving force in the positive cultural transformation in organisations leading to improved systems, efficiency in process and increased revenue. His visionary, collaborative and empowering approach to managing teams has resulted in overall business improvements that add shareholder value.

He has completed a Master of International Business to add to his Master of Business Administration and Graduate Diploma in Management amongst other qualifications. Justin is particularly passionate about the economic and cultural transformation of organisations and communities.

Dean Candler-Szabo

Executive Team | Sydney

Head of Operations.

Dean has over 20 years of project management and process design experience working as a former IT Management Consultant. He has been involved in project implementation in the UK, Europe, North America and Australia/New Zealand. Dean joined Many Rivers in March 2014.  He leads Strategic Project delivery and manages the organisational infrastructure to support service delivery and operations. In May 2018, Dean was appointed Company Secretary.  He holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical) (Hons) and a Bachelor of Commerce.

Linda Li

Executive Team | Sydney

Executive Assistant to CEO.

Linda is a senior Executive Assistant with more than 25 years’ experience working internationally and locally with C-suite executives in global industries spanning FMCG, luxury, magazine publishing, media consultancy and local government.

Linda applies her passion for excellence, creative problem-solving and diverse skills set to serving as an enthusiastic team player whose aim is to make things happen and make things as smooth and pain-free as possible. Linda joined Many Rivers in April 2021.

Britta Zimmermann

Leadership Group | Sydney

Head of People and Organisational Development.

Britta joined the Many Rivers team in October 2018 with over 13 years HR experience across the facets of people & culture, training & development, organisational development as well as compensation and benefits. Having worked across a range of positions nationally and internationally, Britta has a strong passion to support organisations and their people to grow and unlock their full potential. Britta holds a Bachelor and Master in Business Administration.

Lisa Kelman

Leadership Group | Perth

Head of Region | WA & SA.

Lisa has over 25 years experience in the banking and finance industry and has completed numerous management and leadership training programs. Her diverse background encompasses consumer and business lending, equipment financing and front line team management. Lisa has also owned and operated two small businesses. Lisa began working with Many Rivers as a client Mentor in early 2016 and realising her passion she joined the team in October 2016 to oversee the WA and SA operations.  

Kat Lee

Leadership Group | Darwin

Head of Region | NT, FNQ & TSI.

Kat is a local to the Northern Territory having grown up in the Katherine region and residing in Darwin for the past 16 years. Kat has lived in remote areas such as Tennant Creek and is familiar with the struggles and hurdles that many people encounter when starting small businesses in remote locations. Kat has a finance and business background with 8 years in the banking industry and has successfully owned and operated a small business, as well as having held management and mentor roles within the Darwin region. Kat is passionate about the value of support and trust when going into microenterprise and is excited to share her knowledge and experience.

Kat joined Many Rivers as a Microenterprise Development Manager and in October 2021 she became the Head of Region for the Northern Territory.

Anwar Salim

Leadership Group | Sydney

Head of Systems and Projects.

Anwar joined Many Rivers team in August 2019 with over 13 years IT and Project Management experience. Previously worked across Asia Pacific region covered a range of IT Service Management, Service Delivery and Operation in national scale and international organisations. Anwar holds a Bachelor in IT and Mathematics, and currently studying Master of Business Administration.

Kirrily Tough

Leadership Group | Grafton

Loan Support Officer.

Kirrily has many years experience working in the finance and administration field, with a Certificate 3 and 4 in Accounting. Based in our Grafton office, Kirrily has worked as a Finance Support Officer since 2010 and is now responsible for providing loan support to the operations team.

Simon Pachos

Leadership Group | Grafton

Head of Finance.

Simon joined Many Rivers in June 2017 and is also the Company Secretary. He brings many years of experience in accounting and finance, mainly from the mining sector. Based in Grafton, Simon manages the back office, is CPA qualified and holds a Bachelor of Commerce.

Robert Collins

Leadership Group | Brisbane

Head of Region.

Robert has over 30 years experience in banking and risk roles throughout rural, regional and metropolitan Queensland, including senior leadership roles in risk. Robert holds tertiary qualifications in Business (Banking and Finance) and Management and is a senior associate of FINSIA (Financial Services Institute of Australasia). Robert has also been active in youth development at a national level and commenced with Many Rivers in 2017 to oversee the QLD and NT operations.

Scott Woodward

Leadership Group | Sydney

Head of Region | NSW/VIC/TAS.

Scott has over 20 years commercial banking experience in managerial and senior finance roles. He has been involved in various bank-wide projects and throughout his career been actively involved in the community. Scott joined Many Rivers in July 2012 and oversees the NSW and VIC Operations. Scott holds a Bachelor of Economics and has completed various management and leadership training including Macquarie University Principles of General Management and the Harvard Club of Australia leadership program.

Graham Poon

Community Economic Development Manager | Cairns

Graham has worked in community and economic development internationally and with Indigenous groups in Australia, collectively for 18 years. He has performed this work in a variety of consultancy and senior roles in the private sector and all levels of government including three years with an Indigenous Shire Council. He also has over 30 years of varied commercial experiences through work done in Australia, South East Asia and the Pacific.

He has specific business expertise in tourism across Northern Australia and overseas, finance, retail and management consulting to SME businesses and government organisations. Roles overseas included GM of a marine tourism operation and Trade Commissioner with Austrade specializing in winning development projects.

Alicia Rackett

Community Economic Development Manager | Tasmania

Alicia has 30 years of small business experience across diverse industries including television production, corporate communications, and horticulture. With extensive experience in project management, business development and communications she has worked with partners around Australia, and in India, Thailand, and Vanuatu. Born and raised in Tasmania, Alicia is passionate about achieving positive and sustainable outcomes for communities in her home state.

She has an undergraduate degree in Landscape Architecture, post graduate qualifications in Management and Screen Business and is currently completing a Masters in Disaster Resilience and Sustainable Development.

Jayson Burhop

Community Economic Development Manager | Darwin

Jayson has over 20 years project management and community engagement experience, designing and implementing projects and programs in remote Aboriginal communities, the climate change industry (renewable energy and energy efficiency), the natural resource management industry and the aquaculture industry. Jayson has extensive business operation and development experience, having set up and run 2 owner operated businesses, offering home energy assessments and aquaculture consultancy services.

He also has extensive practical construction experience, having designed and built his own energy efficient home, built a large shed on his rural property that incorporated rain water tanks and a small stand alone solar system and also designed and built several tank based recirculating systems during his time in the aquaculture industry. Jayson has lived and worked in 2 large remote Indigenous communities in Arnhem Land, working as a manager to support a local Aboriginal Corporation in Ramingining to set up and run local businesses and employ local people and as a supervisor in Gapuwiyak, designing and implementing activities and training programs for local people.

He is looking forward to utilising this experience with Many Rivers and supporting Indigenous communities to build a sustainable future on their country.

Robert Brittain

Community Economic Development Manager | Perth

Robert began his career in the banking industry at Westpac, and over 15 years held various front and back office roles in WA. Robert has also held state government and private sector roles delivering business development advice and grant funding to regional and remote Aboriginal community organisations. Before joining Many Rivers in 2019, Robert completed a role as Aboriginal Affairs Coordinator. Awarded an Indigenous Scholarship from Curtin University, Robert has completed a Graduate Business qualification and is now undertaking a Masters in Business Administration.

David Sharkey

Community Economic Development Manager | Dubbo

David has over 20 years’ experience working across Northern Australia in Indigenous health, employment and community enterprise development.  David has developed and implemented a large number of region wide programs that involved extended community engagement. This includes Apunipima’s Health Action Teams across 11 Cape York Aboriginal Communities and working as Operations Manager at Community Enterprises Australia’s, the not-for-profit enterprise development arm of the My Pathway Group.

David has extensive business experience as an owner operator, contractor and as a Director of an Indigenous not-for-profit. David’s three children are of Torres Strait Island descent and while he has long-held relationships in Cape York and the Torres Strait, he is fully dedicated to building new relationships, experiences and contribution in Western NSW.

Brett Mackie

Community Economic Development Manager | Toowoomba

Brett is a highly experienced community relations practitioner who has specialised in land rights, native title and community engagement. Drawing on over 20 years working and advising Indigenous corporations, native title representative bodies, state governments and multi national corporations, Brett has delivered meaningful engagement strategies, successful agreement making and sustainable implementation programs. Brett brings a passion for community empowerment and economic development as well as extensive corporate experience and knowledge.

Marcus Tanke

Community Economic Development Manager | Ceduna

Marcus comes from an extensive retail business management and financial services background and has worked throughout many metro and rural locations around South Australia. Based in Ceduna, Marcus is passionate about bringing Many Rivers’ support to his local communities and helping those communities thrive through economic development.

Andy Rushton

Community Economic Development Manager | Cairns

Andy has over 18 years of community development experience in Australia. He held the position of CEO for a welfare service in Victoria, followed by several community development senior management appointments, including 3 years in a remote Aboriginal community in Northern Territory and more recently 5 years with a child welfare service based in Far North Queensland. Andy has extensive remote employment and business enterprise development knowledge and hopes to combine his expertise and experience for the betterment of remote communities. Andy is currently completing a degree in Anthropology.

Andy supports communities in Far North Queensland

Matthew Beare

Microenterprise Development Manager | South Coast NSW

Matt has a background in financial services with over 15 years’ experience in management, business development and sales.

Matt  successfully operated his own business in hospitality and retail. He has lived on the South Coast of NSW for the past 15 years and has a passion to support people to realise their potential in their small business and to help their community thrive.

Matt’s region is the South Coast of NSW covering Nowra to Eden and everything in between.

Rita Gutchen

Microenterprise Development Manager | Torres Strait

Born and raised in Cairns, Rita worked extensively in the region, for a State government department for eighteen years, in the areas of employment and training.  Upon completion of her studies of BAS Indigenous Community Management and Development, Rita  moved to Bamaga, and focused further on Indigenous contexts for employment and training. Rita has lived and worked in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area for combined total of almost eighteen years. She has extensive experience of government, community organisation, job network and the business sector.  Rita set up and operated her own small car rental business for ten years on Thursday Island.  Rita is passionate about empowering individuals, who have a dream and desire to create a small business for themselves, to journey with them, to create inter-generational wealth for themselves and their families in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area region.

Tracey Lonergan

Microenterprise Development Manager | South West NSW

Tracey has over 30 years’ experience in senior management and consulting roles including 9 years working in Economic Development and operating several businesses of her own.  She has taught financial management at university and assisted a broad variety of organisations with business and strategic planning. Tracey holds a Bachelor of Business and an MBA and is an active investor who enjoys sharing her experience & passion with her clients to help them grow successful, sustainable businesses.

Tiani Cook

Microenterprise Development Manager | Gympie, South Burnett QLD

Tiani is an enthusiastic and passionate advocate for rural and remote families, having firsthand experience in raising and educating a family alongside business, study and community engagement in Outback Australia. Tiani has owned and managed various businesses and NFP’s for over 23 years. She studied Agribusiness and is an ARLP C25 Alumni of the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation. Tiani joined the Many Rivers family in May 2019 as the Microenterprise Development Manager (MEDM) in Alice Springs NT. Since November 2021, Tiani has been the MEDM in Gympie and South Burnett in QLD.

Lester Hamilton

Microenterprise Development Manager | Alice Springs

Lester is from a small business background, having been a partner in his families’ irrigated cropping farm at Goondiwindi in Qld. He also operated a Bed and Breakfast business on the farm.

Lester left the farm and travelled to the Northern Territory in 1998 to take up a position managing the dairy farm at Katherine. With a desire to be his own boss again he moved with his family in 2000 to open the Brumbys bakery in Alice Springs. After 19 years he sold this successful business and took up a role managing the National Transport Museum in Alice Springs for 18 months. Lester is extremely motivated to give back and help others. Many Rivers will allow me to share the skills he has learnt throughout his journey with those beginning out in business and he is extremely excited about this opportunity

He enjoys being a part of the local community here in Alice Springs and helping out where he can. He also enjoys many sports including motorbike, mountain bike and golf.

Shelley McCarthy

Microenterprise Development Manager | South Coast NSW

Shelley has a background in retail and business, with over 17 years’ experience in retail management, customer services and sales.

Shelley owned and operated two small businesses with her husband – an online/markets business and a trade based business. For the last 8 years Shelley has worked as a Vocational trainer and assessor, teaching retail, business, foundation skills and vocational pathways to students with complex backgrounds and barriers in language, literacy and numeracy.

She has lived on the South Coast (Illawarra region) for the past 41 years and has a strong connection with the community and a love of the people and the area.

Shelley’s region is the Wollongong region, covering Nowra to Campbelltown and surrounds.

Colin Long

Microenterprise Development Manager | Perth

Colin is a Many Rivers small business mentor in Perth. He has with a dynamic career of experience and has lived in the UK, New Zealand and Australia. His experience varies from industries including dairy farming, social media marketing for the hair and beauty sector, and the steel industry. He has successfully operated his own business three times, developing each business from a start-up enterprise to a mature company.

Colin was a Many Rivers business coach in Roma QLD for two years before taking up the same role in Perth three years ago. Colin is highly motivated to make a difference and help people succeed.

Colin’s strength is his confidence around technology after working in the sector and owning a social media marketing business. He is also always looking on the bright side and believes that this is a very helpful skill to have. “If someone tells you bad news there is always good news to go with that.”

“Working with Many Rivers, you start off with clients – but you end up with friends. Seeing them succeed is what motivates me everyday. Seeing what they do. Sometimes I see what they are doing and I think ‘wow I could never do that’. We have our own skill set to help them succeed but then looking at what they do is so motivating. So I don’t have favourite memories, I just think most of what I do creates memories. It’s about the people.”

Colin’s business tip is to make sure your social media posts are quirky and have captions that make the customer want to go and purchase the product or service you offer. Colin recommends books by the author, Mick Michalowicz. He has read quite a few and says that they are really good and practical. He also listens to a lot of podcasts on personal development as well as business managed as he thinks that his role as a Many Rivers business coach is just as much about supporting the personal development of his clients as it is about supporting their small business goals.

Danny Hile

Microenterprise Development Manager | Dubbo

Danny has over 20 years of experience in new business development and growth, working primarily in the fields of media, information technology and e-commerce.

During this time, he developed core strengths in sales, marketing, new product incubation and time management.

Previously Danny earned a Master of Business and Commerce degree, as well as a Bachelor of Commerce with a Marketing Major.

Joy Thacker

Microenterprise Development Manager | Perth

Joy has a background in financial services with 14 years experience in marketing, sales and management roles. She has successfully started and operated three businesses in different industries including marketing and training, gardening and sports. Joy has a heart for equality and is passionate about making a positive difference.
Joy covers the north side of Perth.

Adam Troyn

Microenterprise Development Manager | Darwin & East Arnhem

Adam brings with him a wealth of experience through his previous role with the NT Government as a Small Business Champion and an Economic Development Officer, along with practical, ‘hands on’ experience of operating his own business.

He holds a Masters of Marketing from the Ehrenberg-Bass Institute for Marketing Science, and has extensive experience in community economic development projects.

Adam is a volunteer for the NT Coast Guard. Adam works in Darwin and East Arnhem.

Michael Jack

Microenterprise Development Manager | Geraldton

Michael has 30 years’ experience working in the health sector. He was an ambulance paramedic based in Geraldton before taking on the role of regional manager for the Midwest Region. Michael played a pivotal role in the development and roll out of regional ambulance services across the state incorporating both career and volunteer ambulance officers. In the last 5 years, Mike was the general manager for a large regional aged care facility. A background of leading larger teams and businesses combined with his practical and common sense approach will benefit those wishing to develop their own enterprise. A “bushie” at heart, Mike is keen to get back out into the region and assist individuals to seek out and realise their opportunities and potentials to achieve small business goals.

Kris Young

Microenterprise Development Manager | Kimberley

Kris has over 15 years experience in the development of small business and 19 years experience working with community organisations. He holds a Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) and has previously provided mentoring under the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS).  Kris is enthusiastic about helping clients start and grow their businesses and achieve their personal goals.
Kris is based in Broome.

Maninder Malhi

Microenterprise Development Manager | Katherine

Maninder comes with a successful career in banking and business development management along with the real practical experience of starting and operating his own small business in accommodation. Maninder holds a bachelor’s degree in Management (Human Resources) and brings in a wealth of experience in areas of sales, account management, business development, product growth management and client financial wellbeing management.

He is also committed to community-based activities and is currently on the board of Katherine community radio station to secure sponsorships through local businesses.

Shaun Atkinson

Microenterprise Development Manager | Goldfields

Over the past 6 years Shaun has volunteered his time for the community as an Emergency Medical Technician with St John Ambulance. He loves supporting the people of the community and surrounding communities. His previous work history he spent 4 years working with CDP and jobactive supporting people back into work and helping them obtain the necessary experience and identification required upon being successful in their new role. Prior to this he successfully operated the businesses in the fast food industry, the first of which he bought at 21 years-old.

Chris Moore

Microenterprise Development Manager | Kimberley

Chris has over 25 years of Banking and Finance experience working with Small Business and Regional and Agribusiness clients.

Chris has a passion for coaching and training in large groups or one on one. He supports Many Rivers’ clients in the Kimberley region in Western Australia.

Ruth Trueman

Microenterprise Development Manager | Port Augusta

Ruth brings a wealth of experience with her as a business consultant, trainer, and accounts manager from her own previous business and employment.

Originally from South Australia, Ruth has lived and worked in both Katherine and Darwin, including the Tiwi Islands and is looking forward to making Katherine her home and venturing out to the remote communities in this region.  Ruth’s much loved mother was a Nukuna Elder from SA, and Ruth is deeply passionate about supporting Indigenous people and building business.

Sam Drummond

Microenterprise Development Manager | Adelaide

Sam has an extensive background in business management that spans the private, community and government sectors. This includes successful business operations, senior management, business development and consulting experience. Sam has a supportive and creative business coaching style. That is well placed to assist micro and small business operations.

He has been working with Many Rivers for four years and enjoys meeting with clients one-on-one to support them to reach their business goals. Sam recognises that one of the biggest strengths that a Many Rivers business coach must have is emotional intelligence. He says that it is important to understand each small business owner and their story, in addition to typical business skills.

“Throughout my career, even though there seems like there has been a lot of different things that I have done, the one theme is service and wanting to do things in an ethical nature. For me, Many Rivers is about providing equal access to services where there is huge inequality. There are so many people who can’t access the business services sector in Australia. There are all sorts of reasons why they are never going to provide quality services. So for me, Many Rivers is a package of services supported by amazing people to provide access to those services. We give access to finance, legal support and business coaching. It is almost impossible to access if you are experiencing the kind of challenges that our clients are.”

Sam tailors his support to each client. One of the most important pieces of advice he can give is to to step into the shoes of a customer. He explains that a lot of people go into business and are not careful to see that their offering is a reflection of customer needs. Sam continues to explain if are about to pour a lot of money into a product or service you need to know where and why. You need to refine this type of customer so that this investment does not go to waste.

Sharon Briggs

Microenterprise Development Manager | Pilbara

Sharon grew up in Perth but has found her heart belongs to the regional people and areas of Australia, including Busselton, Kalgoorlie, Leonora, WA and Milingimbi and Nhulunbuy NT.  She has over 25 years of finance and business experience.  Her knowledge is diverse and unique, including managing a retail/food store in a remote community in Arnhem Land NT, owning a Par 3 golf course as well as 13 years managing her own financial services business.

She also has experience in the community services sector having worked with a CDP provider in Yirrkala and Nhulunbuy NT.  Sharon enjoys helping and coaching people to be realise their full potential and is looking forward to making her new home in Port Hedland.

Penelope Dodd

Microenterprise Development Manager | Central South Australia

Penelope has a background in micro business, social enterprise and community development. Most recently she founded and was GM of the award winning Tasmanian social enterprise Produce to the People, she also has worked as GM of the high end muesli manufacturer Whisk & Pin, owned her own gourmet food business and food consultancy, and spent over a decade in the hospitality industry. Penelope has also helped entrepreneurs launch, run and grow their businesses as a Small Business Consultant with a Business Enterprise Centre. Penelope has a Graduate Certificate in Business from UTAS, a Certificate 4 in Small Business and an Advanced Certificate in Community Welfare.

Alan Radford

Microenterprise Development Manager | Tasmania

Alan has over 20 years’ experience as a Senior Business Consultant with a specialised focus on supporting the development of Aboriginal community organisations within Tasmania and throughout Western Australia.  Being a proud Tasmanian Aboriginal man, Alan has worked and assisted his community through the delivery and design of specialised employment and business development programs.  He is also an emerging Aboriginal Artist.

Alan has experience across a multitude of industries and sectors such as:  construction, hospitality, retail, aged care, disability services and the fishing industry.  He is a qualified facilitator and trainer.  In recent years he has specialised in the NEIS program and the writing of NILs Loans to assist newly established business in Tasmania.

He has a Masters in Business, a Graduate Diploma of Business, Diploma’s in Leadership, Management, Human Resources, Business and Employment Service’s.

Alan’s driver is to see people succeed and to assist them to realise their dreams and aspirations, for there is no truer a picture of success than a individual achieving their personal goals!

Richard Morfaw

Microenterprise Development Manager | Mildura

Richard has over 25 years’ business and management experience, including managing Mildura City for 5 years and acting as Operations and Marketing manager for a chain of 15 hotels in Papua New Guinea. Most recently, Richard successfully owned and operated three registered training organisations in Melbourne and regional Victoria. Richard is passionate about making a difference in his community.
Richard’s region includes Mildura, Broken Hill and Wilcannia

Frankie Opie

Microenterprise Development Manager | Bendigo

Frankie has over 15 years of program management experience working in both government and private sectors in rural and regional communities. Frankie has also owned and operated a successful small business developing it from start-up to a prosperous enterprise. She is passionate about working within her local communities to assist others realise their full potential.
Frankie’s region includes Bendigo, Sherpparton, Echuca and everything in between.

Richard Belford

Microenterprise Development Manager | Melbourne

Richard has a background in small business development and has successfully owned and operated several cafés in metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria. Richard also has extensive experience in the community sector having worked with schools and businesses to promote career education and youth employment. Richard is passionate about working with the local community to help people thrive in small business.
Richard covers the Hume area of Melbourne.

Gina Ezard

Microenterprise Development Manager | Melbourne West

Gina has extensive experience across a diverse range of industries and roles including community development projects and social enterprise initiatives. Gina is qualified in business management and as a youth worker and has held managerial and consultant roles in the community sector.
Gina covers the Melbourne Metro and West region.

Garry Harris

Microenterprise Development Manager | Western Sydney

Garry was appointed as Many Rivers Microenterprise Development Manager in Western Sydney in 2011 and has been managing the Mentoring program since in 2015. Garry has a passion to see people become personally and financially successful and expects to see these benefits achieved for Many Rivers’ clients through microenterprise development and the Mentoring Program.

Ricky Roth

Microenterprise Development Manager | Sydney

Ricky has over 15 years’ experience owning and operating successful small businesses. He started a professional development events and conference business before trying his hand at retail, where his niche toy business forged a reputation as an industry icon.

Born and bred in Sydney, he is enthusiastic about the role small businesses play in helping local communities thrive.

He is passionate about helping people start business as a way to climb the socio-economic ladder and provide positive generational change.

Tania Kelland

Microenterprise Development Manager | Newcastle, Hunter, Mid-Coast NSW

Tania has 30 years’ experience in the tourism industry and has also operated her own economic development agencies, mentoring and developing Indigenous, multicultural and mainstream commercial businesses and community organisations. Tania has 20 years governance experience in the agriculture, not-for-profit, education and health sectors. With a post graduate diploma in business, specialising in Indigenous development, Tania is keen to journey with clients to reach their potential.
Tania’s region includes the Newcastle, Hunter and Mid-Coast NSW.

Tod Wills

Microenterprise Development Manager | Central Coast, Lake Macquarie NSW

Tod has over 30 years experience in  Banking and Finance, both in leadership, retail, commercial, credit and operational roles. He is passionate about small business and his local community, and has supported local charities including Lifeline, Coast Shelter, Sunnyfield and Meals on Wheels.

Through his involvement with local rugby, he has been influential in shaping the lives of both Indigenous and Non Indigenous youths from the Frank Baxter Juvenile Detention Centre. Tod has a Diploma in Financial Markets, is Level 2 Rugby Union Coaching accredited and is currently a Board member of Central Coast Rugby Union.

Tod is looking forward to making a difference to lives in the disadvantaged sector, and helping these clients reach their true potential. Tod’s region includes Central Coast and Lake Macquarie.

Natalie Young

Microenterprise Development Manager | Moree

Natalie has been with Many Rivers for 5 years assisting people in disadvantaged circumstances to start sustainable small business as a means to financial independence. Previous to this, Natalie has held various positions in the health services sector. She has maintained her community service connections and works closely with local organisations.

Ofelia Benn

Microenterprise Development Manager | Grafton

Ofelia has over 25 years experience in financial, administrative and human resource management environments as well as many year in the banking sector in the Philippines. She has also operated as a sole proprietor in a mortgage brokerage and bookkeeping business. Ofelia has always been involved in local community development organisations and continues to be an active participant in the changing perspective of community support in the Clarence Valley.

Gary Lawrence

Microenterprise Development Manager | Bunbury

Gary is a local to the South West of Western Australia residing in Bunbury.

He has many years experience in agribusiness banking and has lived and worked in WA’s wheatbelt and coastal regions supporting his farming and business clients. He has also been the General Manager of a WA Liquid Fertlisier Manaufacturer and for something completely different, a Drillers Offsider (FIFO) up in the Pilbara region.

Gary is passionate about making a difference to people starting out or needing a helping hand in their business journey.

Jamie McMillan

Microenterprise Development Manager | Toowoomba

Jamie has over 16 years’ experience in business banking throughout rural, regional and metropolitan Queensland. His experience has been in the areas of relationship management, business development and community development. Jamie holds tertiary qualifications with a Bachelor of Information Technology, majoring in IT Management and Administration Management and a Diploma in Banking Services Management. Jamie is passionate about community engagement and small business development to ensure future opportunities and growth can be achieved in his local area.

Gordon Rowlings

Microenterprise Development Manager | Roma

Gordon has a wide range of experience and skills from a variety of different industries having spent his early life working on his family’s cattle, orchard and vegetable growing properties and later working for major banks as well as successfully owning and operating a convenience store and a mortgage broking franchise. Gordon is experienced in areas of workplace health and safety, insurance, staffing and financing. Gordon is keen to ensure the future strength and depth of the local communities and hopes to ensure future generations have improved opportunities.

Gordon covers from Charleville, across to Roma, Dalby and down to St George.

Kyle Bischoff

Microenterprise Development Manager | Brisbane South

Kyle has spent his career working in not-for-profit organisations supporting education in the South Pacific region as well as supporting the financial growth of a local hospital in the Brisbane area. Kyle studied business and has had extensive experience owning and operating small businesses. Kyle is driven to support people experiencing disadvantage to create, expand and thrive in business.

Ross Smith

Microenterprise Development Manager | Brisbane North

Ross has contracted direct to state and federal government to deliver programs and has worked for large national organisations. He has completed tertiary studies in engineering and business, and successfully operated his own small businesses in telecommunications contracting, and energy efficiency consulting and assessment. Ross has held executive positions in a range of community organisations, and received an Australia Day Award in 2012 recognising service to the community. He enjoys working with clients to assist them achieve their business goals. Keen on community development, Ross welcomes and encourages healthy living, partner support, business collaboration and community connections as clients move forward in business.

Ross covers northern Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast

Troyson Bassani

Microenterprise Development Manager | Rockhampton

Troyson has spent most of his career working in Indigenous affairs with a specific focus on economic development and Indigenous home ownership. Troyson has a strong policy background and has studied both business and politics. Troyson has also successfully operated his own consultancy business, assisting property developers with development projects. Troyson is a big believer in economic participation being the pathway out of disadvantage and is eager to help individuals get on this pathway.

Stacy Szczerbinski

Microenterprise Development Manager | Bundaberg

Stacy has worked as an accredited trainer, mentor and business field officer for over 20 years and her experience includes employment in community programs and organisations. She has successfully operated her own consultancy business where she was involved in the development of a world class training facility in Darwin. Stacy is passionate about assisting people achieve their goals.

Charles Fisher

Microenterprise Development Manager | Townsville

Charles has spent most of his working life in North Queensland and after a long and successful career in the banking industry he is now using his skills to help Many Rivers’ Clients achieve their dreams. Charles’ two passions are rugby league football and social justice for all Australians. He is still actively involved in his football club in Townsville. Charles believes everyone should have the opportunity and assistance to start their own small business and looks forward to helping his Many Rivers’ Clients start, stay and thrive in their businesses.

Charles looks after Townsville, Palm Island, Mackay and everywhere in between.

Jenny Carmichael

Microenterprise Development Manager | Cairns

Jenny has many years experience owning and operating small businesses. She has successfully operated a building company, a zoo, a mortgage brokerage and online businesses. Jenny  is currently involved in small business groups and continues to encourage small business into the community. Born in Far North Queensland, Jenny has lived in Cape York, Horn Island, Lockhart River and Coen and is keen to support local businesses to start, stay and thrive.

Donna Burton

Microenterprise Development Manager | Cairns

Donna has experience working as a Financial Counsellor with people living in remote communities as well as diverse roles in community development and adult education. Donna is passionate about social justice and believes in helping people to achieve their life goals by supporting them to develop confidence and a belief in their own ability to succeed.