Speakers
WQAC 2026
Hon Ann Leahy MP
Minister for Local Government and Water, and Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers
Ann Leahy was born in Stanthorpe, raised on the family farm, educated via Distance Education and boarding school and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Science. She has a keen interest in aviation and spends her spare time competing in sheep dog trials with her two beloved border collies, Molly and Jess.
Ann has worked in the political sector for over 30 years. She is a passionate voice for the South-West fighting for doctors in local communities and better health facilities in the region.
Ann is a strong advocate for the agricultural, manufacturing, resources and tourism sectors across South West Queensland. She is passionate about ensuring the government's priorities are focused on plans to grow these industries whilst keeping the communities safe and enabling them to grow with more housing opportunities.
Ann was elected in 2015 as the Member for Warrego and is the first female Member of Parliament to win the state seat of Warrego since Federation. She advocates for communities across her electorate from the western parts of the Darling Downs to the South Australian border.
Hon Steven Minnikin MP
Minister for Customer Services and Open Data, and Minister for Small and Family Business
Steve Minnikin is the Minister for Customer Services and Open Data and Minister for Small and Family Business in the Crisafulli LNP Government. He is responsible for establishing a new Department dedicated to delivering Australia’s most customer service-focused government, including streamlining government services for Queenslanders and small businesses.
First elected to the Queensland Parliament in 2012, Steve represents the electorate of Chatsworth in Brisbane’s south-east. He is a long time Chatsworth local, having grown up in Carina and now resides in Belmont with his family.
Prior to entering Parliament, Steve was involved in the retail property management and development industry. As a businessman, Steve understands the importance of investing and backing small and family businesses to deliver more jobs and economic prosperity for all Queenslanders.
Hon Andrew Powell MP
Minister for the Environment and Tourism, and Minister for Science and InnovationDeputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Industrial Relations
Andrew was born in Melbourne and spent his childhood moving between Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney until his family finally settled in Burpengary. He completed secondary school at Redcliffe and gained degrees in both Science and Arts at the University of Queensland.
He kicked off his career with the Defence Department in Canberra and, after a short time working overseas, returned to Queensland where he worked for the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, and the Department of Child Safety. An increasing frustration with how our taxes were being spent, how government policy was being developed and delivered, and a sense that the Glass House electorate was missing out drove him to have a go at politics.
Further to being appointed as the Minister for the Environment and Tourism, and the Minister for Science and Innovation in October 2024, Andrew has had some fantastic roles since including a previous term as Minister for Environment, Shadow Minister for Transport, Main Roads and Local Government and Shadow Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning, but nothing beats being the Member for Glass House.
Hon Kristy McBain MP
Minister for Emergency Management and Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories
Kristy McBain proudly grew up on the NSW Far South Coast, and she is the first woman to represent Eden-Monaro.
Since being elected in 2020, Kristy has built a formidable reputation as a plain spoken, hard-working local member who advocates with all levels of Government and all sides of politics to get results for her constituents.
A former Mayor of the Bega Shire Council, Kristy advocated day and night for people through the darkest days of the Black Summer Bushfires in 2019-20.
Kristy studied law at the University of Canberra and as the first person in her family to go to university, she is passionate that all kids get the chance to go to university or TAFE and have the opportunity to build their careers and lives in the regions as she has done.
Hon Tony Perrett MP
Minister for Primary Industries
Tony Perrett is a father, former councillor and Deputy Mayor, grazier, and is an active community member with a strong connection to the Gympie Region.
He was elected to the Queensland Parliament as the Member for Gympie in January 2015, and in November 2017, and again in 2020.
For much of his life, Tony has always been actively involved in the community and is dedicated to community service joining local organisations at the age of 19.
For 25 years he has been an active supporter and volunteer of regional shows including the Kilkivan Show and Gympie Shows, and Camp Draft Committees. Tony was a member of the Board of St Patrick’s School for six years. He is patron of a numerous community organisations.
Hon David Littleproud MP
Shadow Minister for Emergency Services, and Shadow Minister for Tourism
David Littleproud was elected to the House of Representatives for Maranoa, Queensland in 2016 and re-elected in 2029, 2022 and 2025 .
David became a Cabinet Minister on 20 December 2017 and was the Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources from 20 December 2017 to 29 May 2019.
David was the Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Drought Preparation and Response from 26 November 2018 to 25 January 2019.
On 6 February 2020, David was sworn in as the Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management, and from July 2021 until May 2022 was the Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia.
Since June 2022 David has held several shadow ministries and is currently the Shadow Minister for Tourism and Shadow Minister for Emergency Services.
Prior to entering politics, David worked in Banking and finance roles and owned a small business.
Nikki Boyd MP
Shadow Minister for Local Government and Water
Shadow Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery, Emergency Services and Volunteers
Nikki has dedicated her working life to looking after others and fighting for a fair go for everyone in our society – particularly those who are forgotten about or marginalised.
From her early working life as an Early Childhood Educator to her recent career campaigning for the rights of workers in Queensland – Nikki is about standing up with those who need it most. These are the values she brings to being the member for Pine Rivers.
Over the last decade Nikki has advocated for thousands working people including Early Childhood Educators, Aged Carers, Health Professionals through her work with her union, the United Workers Union.
Now Nikki brings her campaigning experience and passion for a fair go for all to standing up and fighting for a better future for the community she cares about – Pine Rivers.
Her previous ministerial portfolios include: Minister for Fire and Disaster Recovery and Minister for Corrective Services from 18 December 2023 - to 27 October 2024 and Assistant Minister for Local Government: 12 November 2020 - 17 December 2023.
Claire Andersen
Executive Director, Office of Waste Reduction and Recycling, Department of Environment and Tourism and Science and Innovation.
Claire Andersen is Executive Director, Office of Waste Reduction and Recycling, in the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.
She has more than 20 years’ experience in a range of policy, operational and regulatory roles across Queensland Government.
She had led major reforms across fisheries, forestry, Great Barrier Reef policy and environmental regulation and has led the development of the new Queensland Waste Strategy.
Kate Birse
Regional Waste Coordinator, RAPAD
Kate Birse is a Senior Project Officer with the Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD), based in Barcaldine, Central West Queensland.
She works across regional development initiatives that support resilient and sustainable remote communities, with a strong focus on collaboration between local government, industry and community organisations.
Kate has extensive experience in project management, stakeholder engagement and community development, and is passionate about finding practical, locally driven solutions to the challenges facing regional Queensland. She is pleased to contribute to the discussion on waste management and the opportunities for collaboration across Western Queensland.
Cr Samantha O’Toole
Mayor, Balonne Shire Council
In 2016, Cr O’Toole was elected as a Councillor at Balonne Shire Council and was elected Mayor in 2020 and 2024.
Cr O’Toole has been instrumental in delivering ground-breaking and life changing projects across the Shire for over almost two decades, involving partners from Federal, State and Local government levels.
She’s passionate about rural communities and has a goal to make Balonne Shire more liveable, while providing and pursuing opportunities to ensure future generations have a positive future in the bush.In 2016, Cr O’Toole was elected as a Councillor at Balonne Shire Council and was elected Mayor in 2020 and 2024.
Cr O’Toole has been instrumental in delivering ground-breaking and life changing projects across the Shire for over almost two decades, involving partners from Federal, State and Local government levels.
She’s passionate about rural communities and has a goal to make Balonne Shire more liveable, while providing and pursuing opportunities to ensure future generations have a positive future in the bush.
Major General Jake Ellwood (Retd)
Chief Executive Officer, Queensland Reconstruction Authority
As Chief Executive Officer since March 2023, Major General Jake Ellwood (Retd) is responsible for ensuring the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) delivers as lead state agency for disaster recovery and resilience.
QRA has helped impacted communities recover from more than 140 disaster events since its establishment in 2011. Major General Jake Ellwood’s distinguished Australian Defence Force (ADF) career included serving as: State Recovery Coordinator, 2021-22 Southern Queensland Floods; Commander of 1st Division (Brisbane); Deputy Chief of Army; and ADF National Coordinator Black Summer Bushfires 2019-20. He has served in Kosovo, Iraq, Afghanistan, and East Timor.
Andrew Nehill
Chief Finance Officer, Queensland Reconstruction Authority
Andrew Nehill is Chief Financial Officer of the Queensland Reconstruction Authority, bringing extensive experience in senior financial leadership, corporate finance and business valuations across the public and private sectors.
Prior to joining QRA, Andrew was a partner in a Big Four corporate finance practice, working across industries including construction, infrastructure, mining, manufacturing and tourism.
As CFO, Andrew leads QRA’s corporate services functions, supporting the organisation responsible for coordinating Queensland’s disaster recovery, reconstruction and resilience programs. He has a strong track record in building high-performing teams and working with boards, senior executives and stakeholders to deliver in complex and demanding environments.
Alison Smith
Chief Executive Officer, Local Government Association of Queensland
After 12 months of leading the LGAQ’s Advocacy team – advancing and promoting policy positions and funding priorities critical to Queensland councils and their communities with State and Federal governments – Alison became the LGAQ’s first new CEO in almost three decades in November 2021.
Prior to that, Alison led the corporate affairs functions of ASX-100 companies from 2007-2020; as Group Executive of External Affairs at The Star Entertainment Group and, previously, in media and corporate affairs roles at Rio Tinto’s coal and uranium businesses in Australia, Africa and Canada.
Alison has worked in the public and private sectors in ICT, transport, energy, police and corrective services, and worked 14 years as a print, radio and television journalist before spending two terms as a senior media advisor in the Queensland Government.
Cr Ernie Camp
Mayor - Burke Shire Council
Cr Ernie Camp was elected to his fourth term as Mayor in 2024, following two terms as Deputy Mayor before 2012 and before that as a Councillor.
In all, Cr Camp has been involved in Local Government for 17 years. He is a Chair of the Australian Beef Association, as well as a member of AgForce, Gulf Cattleman’s Association, and NORTHBeef. He is a member of an implementation committee developing a new national grassfed beef representative body - Cattle Producer’s Australia - following on from recommendations by a senate committee into compulsory levies paid by the grassfed beef industry and is an inaugural Director of CPA. Cr Camp is a member of the Gregory Downs Jockey Club and has been race starter for many years. He is also a member of the Isolated Children’s Parents Association (ICPA), Gregory Downs Sporting Association and Southern Gulf NRM.
Cr Camp represents Council as a board member on the Riversleigh Community Scientific Advisory committee (RCSAC), North West Minerals Province Stakeholder Advisory Group (NWMPSAC), Isa Superbasin User’s Panel and is the Chair of Gulf Savannah Development.
Cr Sally O’Neil
Mayor - Barcoo Shire Council
Sally O’Neil was born and raised in Longreach and brings extensive experience in civil engineering, infrastructure delivery and local government to her role as Mayor of Barcoo Shire Council.
A qualified civil engineer, Sally has worked across major road, transport, mining and infrastructure projects throughout Queensland. She returned to Western Queensland in 2016 and later joined Barcoo Shire Council as Director of Works and Services, giving her first-hand experience in the delivery of essential infrastructure and services in remote communities.
Sally was elected Mayor of Barcoo Shire in 2020 and is a strong advocate for the communities, infrastructure and long-term development of the region.
Cr Ben Hall
Mayor - Quilpie Shire Council
Mayor Ben Hall is fifth generation and has lived in Quilpie his whole life. His career began working in Retail at a family run news agency business for 20 years, then commencing as Branch manager in 2014 at Nutrien Ag Solutions.
Ben has previously been a Councillor from 2004-2008. Ben’s motivation to run for Mayor is his passion for all things Quilpie Shire having lived and raised a family in the community.
Ben’s key focus is on the economic outcome in our community and would like to expand on and look for more initiatives and encourage new enterprises that will deliver more jobs and greater economic return for our communities 365 days a year. He would like to open more opportunities to promote regional growth, commercial opportunities, sustainability and equality for our people from locals to opportunity seekers, whilst continuing to upgrade and improve infrastructure including roads and childcare and advocate for the availability of all health services from pre-natal to palliative care.
Gemma Pinnell
Partner, Right Lane Consulting
Gemma is a partner at Right Lane Consulting. She has worked in senior positions in superannuation and the labour movement for over two decades.
Her areas of expertise are Affordable Housing and Superannuation. Gemma has delivered projects across strategy, policy and program evaluation, new service design and implementation, data and analytics, and transformation. She is focused on partnering with clients to tackle challenging problems and deliver solutions that can be executed to achieve impact.
Ben Perkins
Senior Associate, Right Lane Consulting
Ben is an evidence-driven strategy consultant with a strong background in sustainability, social value and transformation.
Ben’s experience spans public, private and not-for-profit organisations across a range of sectors, including the care and support economy, property development, infrastructure, aviation, international development, and education. Ben’s areas of speciality include strategy development, operating model design, economic and social impact assessment and sustainability.
Darren Mew
National Manager Strategic Growth & Development, BlueCHP
Darren has more than 30 years of experience in the Queensland property industry, including senior roles with major property developers and consultancies.
Darren established BlueCHP’s Queensland office in 2014, of which he is responsible for managing all aspects, including engagement with government, industry and the community.
In his current role, Darren drives national growth through partnerships with government, corporate, and philanthropic entities. He leads advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and co-investment strategies to secure development opportunities and strengthen policy influence. He also oversees the management of Connect Housing Group based in Mackay.
Darren is the Deputy Chair of Queensland Shelter, the state’s peak homelessness and housing association.
Greg Hoffman PSM
Executive Officer, Western Queensland Alliance of Councils
Greg Hoffman PSM is one of Australia’s leading local government professionals with over 45 years’ experience working in State and local government across three states and the Northern Territory. He has held positions of CEO, Commissioner, Managing Director, policy analyst, advocate and industry representative. He most recently concluded eight years as Executive Officer of the North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils, where his focus was on the people, policy and politics of the State’s remote and productive North West Region.
As a foundation member of the Western Queensland Alliance of Councils (WQAC) Leadership Group, he has proudly ensured the growth and impact of united Western Queensland initiatives including the WQAC Assemblies, State and Federal election strategies, and the delivery of a nation-first Regional Housing Study and Local Housing Action Plans across the region.
Greg is passionate about regional Queensland and has devoted a lifetime assisting councils, regional bodies and communities to ensure their voices are heard and that they receive a fair return for the contribution they make to the State and national economies.
Greg holds qualifications in accounting, management, public policy, media and company directorship. He has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to local government having received a Public Service Medal in 1993 and a Centenary Medal in 2002 for his contribution to Australian society and government.
Dominique Lamb
Director of Community Affairs, Brisbane 2032 Olympic & Paralympic Games Team
Dominique Lamb has a diverse background in corporate affairs, industrial relations, and not-for-profits. Dominique was previously the CEO of the National Retail Association and a director of NRA Legal.
In her role as CEO, Dominique advocated on behalf of 60,000 shop fronts across the country about a diverse range of issues, including but not limited to crime, ESG, youth employment, industrial relations, leasing and tenancy, franchising, and the digital economy.
Dominique served as the Queensland Small Business Commissioner from December 2022 until October 2025, where she focused on improving the operating environment for small businesses and reducing the time and cost of resolving disputes.
From October 2025, Dominique has taken on the role of Director of Community Affairs for the Brisbane Olympic Games, where she will continue her commitment to community engagement and advocacy.
Beyond her professional endeavours, Dominique is deeply committed to social causes, particularly those addressing domestic and family violence and closing the gap in our regional, remote, and rural communities.
Brent Hill
Chief Marketing Officer, Brisbane 2032 Olympic & Paralympic Games Team
Brent Hill is Chief Marketing Officer for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, bringing more than 20 years of marketing and executive leadership experience across Australia and internationally.
Prior to joining Brisbane 2032, Brent was CEO of Tourism Fiji, where he led the destination’s global marketing and tourism recovery, and previously served as Chief Marketing Officer of the South Australian Tourism Commission. His career has also included senior marketing roles across finance, retail and telecommunications.
Recognised among the world’s top 25 Chief Marketing Officers, Brent now leads the development and delivery of Brisbane 2032’s brand, marketing and experiential campaigns, helping showcase Brisbane, Queensland and Australia to audiences around the world.
Frankie Carroll
Principal, Solutions Consulting Group
Frankie is the Principal at Solutions Consulting Group and was most recently with the Suburban Rail Loop Authority (Vic) as Chief Executive Officer, coming from the Queensland Public Service where he held a number of positions, including leading the Queensland Treasury.
Hailing from Ireland, Frankie spent 20 years living in his home country before travelling the world, to gain global experience in major financial service centres.
As the former Director-General of Queensland’s Department of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning, Frankie was responsible for the delivery of planning reforms and infrastructure across Queensland.
As former Chief Executive of the Queensland Reconstruction Authority, Frankie delivered a $13 billion program of reconstruction works following major natural disasters. With experience as Chair and Director of Brisbane’s Cross River Rail Delivery Authority, he has a deep understanding of city-shaping infrastructure and mega-project delivery.
Frankie was also Director of Trade and Investment Queensland, Director of Building Queensland and Chair of Economic Development Queensland. He previously held the roles of Chief Financial Officer and Chief Executive Officer of Queensland Water Infrastructure.
Frankie is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, a Charter Accountant of Australia and New Zealand, a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and a Member of the Association of Institute of Taxation in Ireland.
Ben Myers
Principal Consultant & Executive Advisor, HBR Dowling
Ben Myers is an independent strategic adviser and former Chief of Staff with more than 20 years’ experience at the centre of government, industry and public policy.
He has advised Premiers, Ministers, mayors, boards, CEOs and industry leaders on complex policy, funding, infrastructure, regulatory and stakeholder challenges. His career includes serving as Chief of Staff to the Premier of Queensland, senior roles in federal and local government, national head of government relations and communications for QGC during early development of the QCLNG project on Curtis Island, and Executive Director of Australia’s peak industry body for retirement living.
Ben has worked on some of Queensland’s most significant infrastructure, economic development, community engagement and reform initiatives, including major resource, transport, planning and regional policy issues. He brings a practical understanding of how governments make decisions, how funding and policy proposals are assessed, and how regional leaders can build persuasive, evidence-based cases for change.
Cr Peta MacRae
Mayor - Mount Isa City Council
Peta MacRae came to Mount Isa from Central Queensland in 1997 as a teacher and has embraced outback community life ever since.
She has worked in many positions within Education Queensland, has been involved in many community groups such as the Quamby Rodeo committee, Zonta, and Commerce North West, and, more recently, is chair of the Country Universities Centre Mount Isa board.
She has also served as a Councillor for Mount Isa City Council for 8 years, occupying the portfolios of sport and recreation, tourism and events, youth, community engagement, the pool, and the library.
Her passion for local government has led her to further study, including the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) course and an MBA.
Mayor MacRae’s priorities for the local area are strengthening the economy through encouraging diversity of business, growing our own through educational opportunities and professional development, and creating an appealing and livable city to attract residents and visitors alike.
Cr Shaun ‘Zoro’ Radnedge
Mayor - Murweh Shire, and Chair - Outback Queensland Tourism Association
Shaun (Zoro) is a born and bred Charleville boy, he is married and has three children. Zoro and his wife have operated a local business in Charleville. Zoro was first elected to Council in 2016 and elected Mayor in 2020.
He has been involved in several clubs within the Shire, including Charleville RSL, Junior and Senior League, Western Rugby League and Warrego Pony Club.
His goals are to keep our youth engaged, active and be able to offer employment for our young adults. He is keen to showcase what a great lifestyle we have to offer in Murweh Shire.
Denise Brown
CEO - Outback Queensland Tourism Association
Denise Brown is affectionately known as ‘DD’ harking back to a shortcut for her maiden name ‘Deveney’. As Chief Executive Officer of Outback Queensland Tourism Association , DD brings 38-years tourism experience and dedication to Outback Queensland, it’s communities and tourism operators.
As CEO she advocates for the regions, Councils and operators to ensure the voice and needs of Outback Queensland is heard. With a solid understanding of the different needs across the regions, DD lobbies for destination marketing and infrastructure funding initiatives and allocations to drive destination development in line with future consumer expectations, rising market demand and lifting experience development opportunities.
As CEO, she manages the day to day responsibilities of the organisation, working to serve members interests and the promotion of tourism in Outback Queensland.
DD has a deep understanding of the tourism industry having worked across the accommodation sector, as an inbound tour operator and product manager; as a Destination Director with TEQ for the Outback and Gold Coast, and more recently working in aviation and cruise attraction.
Kristina Neylan
Executive Director, Strategic Sourcing & Delivery - Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business
Kristina leads the Strategic Delivery team within CDSB who deliver digital economy programs for Queensland communities.
Kristina thrives on tackling some of the most challenging (and rewarding) areas for digital in our state, including regional digital connectivity, digital inclusion, digital adaption for small businesses, digital capability and employment, and Queensland’s First Nations Digital Service Centre program.
Jay Sindorff
Executive Director, Strategic Policy - Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business
Jay leads the Strategic Policy team within CDSB who lead the development of data, digital and cyber security strategies, and policies for Queensland Government, and for the benefit of our customers and Queensland communities.
Jay is a strong advocate for better use of data and technology to help drive better digital outcomes for communities across the state.
Radmila Desic AM
Digital Connectivity Project Manager - Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business
Radmila Desic AM is a qualified carpenter and joiner who has built a diverse career spanning construction, training, workforce development, industry advocacy and government.
A longstanding champion for women in construction, Radmila has held senior leadership roles with the National Association of Women in Construction, including National Director, National Vice President and Queensland Chapter President. Her work has focused on creating opportunities for women and other underrepresented groups to enter and build careers in the construction industry.
In 2021, Radmila was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to women in the construction industry and to unemployed youth. She now brings her extensive experience in industry engagement and government programs to her role as Digital Connectivity Project Manager with the Queensland Government.
Peter Oost
Director – Networks Field Operations – Queensland, Optus
Peter Oost is an experienced telecommunications leader with an extensive background in network operations, engineering, service delivery and infrastructure management.
As Director of Networks Field Operations for Optus in Queensland, Peter brings significant experience in the delivery, maintenance and resilience of large-scale telecommunications networks. His career spans technical engineering and senior operational leadership, with particular expertise in business continuity, disaster and emergency response, transformation and managing field operations across complex network environments.
Peter brings a practical industry perspective on the challenges of maintaining reliable connectivity across regional and remote communities.
Loretta Willaton
Regional Australia Executive, Telstra
Loretta Willaton is Telstra’s Regional Australia Executive and an experienced telecommunications leader with a strong focus on improving connectivity for rural, regional and remote Australians.
She works closely with communities, government and industry to advocate for regional connectivity needs and support the adoption of new technologies and digital solutions.
Kylie Lindsay
Head, nbn Local, Queensland
Kylie Lindsay is Head of nbn Local Queensland at NBN Co.
With over 15 years’ experience in media, communications, crisis management and strategy, she has worked in all levels of government with Prime Ministers, Premiers and Lord Mayors, as well as the private sector. In that time she managed high-level state based, national and international media as well as providing internal communications advice and strategic direction. An expert in crisis communications, she managed all media for the Brisbane City Council during the 2011 flood and aftermath, and played a pivotal role in running the Queensland State Government response to cyclones, floods and natural disasters for a number of years. Kylie is an accredited IAP2 practitioner (community and stakeholder engagement) with a very strong track record of delivery in both the proactive and reactive media spaces.
As a proud regional Queenslander, Kylie is passionate about bridging the divide between the city and the country, and believes the telecommunication industry has a very important role to play in achieving this. A redhead, Kylie is fun and feisty and lives in Queensland with her husband and young son, rescue mutt Rosie, an assortment of chooks and a hive of bees.
Cr Matt Burnett
Mayor - Gladstone Regional Council, President LGAQ and President ALGA
Mayor Matt Burnett was born and raised in the Gladstone Region with his family’s connection to the area extending six generations.
He is a former small business operator and qualified journalist, having his own newspaper, the Port Curtis Post, at the age of 19.
He has served in local government since 2000, including five years as Deputy Mayor prior to his election as Mayor.
During his time in local government, Cr Burnett served as Chairman of Technical Services with Gladstone City Council and as portfolio representative in Technical Services, Infrastructure Services and Town Planning with Gladstone Regional Council after amalgamation in 2008.
Cr Burnett represented Central Queensland on the Local Government Association of Queensland Policy Executive prior to his election as President in October 2024 and is also President of the Australian Local Government Association, as well as a Central Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (CQROC) director and Gladstone Local Disaster Management Group Chair/Recovery Coordinator.
Commissioner Martin Stokie
Productivity Commission of Australia
Martin Stokie commenced a 5-year term as a full-time Commissioner with the Productivity Commission in April 2022.
Prior to joining the Commission, Martin was the lead partner for PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Economics and Policy practice. Martin was with PwC for 14 years and for the 7 years before that Martin was a Director with the (then) Allen Consulting Group. Martin started his career with the Victorian public service where he held roles in Treasury, Economic Development and Regulatory Reform.
Martin brings a wealth of experience of practical economic policy from his engagements across a broad array of clients. In particular, Martin has deep experience in regulatory policy at the State and Federal level and he has contributed to various government guides to regulation and the application of cost benefit analysis.
Rob Walker
CEO - Regional Aviation Association of Australia
Rob is an experienced executive and strategic leader who has worked in the aviation industry for over 25 years. He was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of the RAAA in February 2024 after working at the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) for eight years as the executive manager responsible for regulatory oversight and surveillance, and as executive manager stakeholder engagement. Prior to CASA he worked for Airservices, Australia’s air traffic control provider as head of corporate communications. The RAAA represents the interests of regional airlines and aviation related businesses across Australia with over 125 member airlines, charter operators, flight training organisations and aircraft maintenance companies. Rob is passionate about aviation and has extensive experience in the successful delivery of complex industry wide and organisational programs in politically sensitive environments.
Rob is also the Chair of the Federal Transport Minister’s General Aviation Advisory Network (GAAN) and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) and a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society (FRAeS).
David Helm
Deputy Director-General, Network Services and Operations, Department of Transport and Main Roads
Dean Helm is an experienced senior executive with leadership experience spanning transport, defence, infrastructure, supply chain and asset management across the public and private sectors.
As Deputy Director-General, Network Services and Operations, Dean leads the delivery and coordination of passenger transport and network operations across Queensland. He previously served as General Manager of RoadTek, bringing extensive experience in operational delivery, major change and complex, highly regulated environments.
Dean has an engineering background, holds a master’s degree in systems engineering and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Cr Paul Poole
Burke Shire Council and Owner - Savannah Aviation
Cr Paul Poole is a long-time Burke Shire resident, local business owner and experienced local government representative. First elected to Burke Shire Council in 2012, Paul served as Deputy Mayor for eight years and was returned as a Councillor at the 2024 Queensland local government elections.
Paul is co-owner and operator of Burketown-based Savannah Aviation, which has provided air charter services across the Gulf of Carpentaria, regional Queensland and the Northern Territory for more than 28 years.
Through his roles in local government and aviation, Paul brings extensive practical experience of the opportunities and challenges of living, doing business and delivering essential services in remote northern Australia.
Cr Andrew Martin
Mayor - Blackall-Tambo Regional Council and Deputy Chair - RAPAD
Andrew Martin is the Mayor of Blackall-Tambo Regional Council having been elected at the 2016 and 2024 local government elections. Andrew is well known through agribusiness and agri-politics due to the many roles he has been held in over the years.
Andrew, with his wife Louise, own and operate Macfarlane Station near Tambo. Andrew holds Diplomas in Agriculture and Rural Business Management and has completed the Australian Institute of Company Directors program. Andrew was one of the early adopters of wild dog cluster fencing which has enabled him to run a far more profitable enterprise while enhancing land and environmental management.
Councillor Martin also has had interests in many businesses and is well versed in directorship.
His current focus is driving the creation of a wool processing plant in his community which would create jobs and underpin the local economy.
Bronwyn Blagoev
Director-General, Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers
Bronwyn Blagoev has more than 20 years’ experience in the Queensland Government across a range of portfolios. She has spent considerable time within the local government portfolio and has a strong understanding of local government in Queensland. With significant experience in policy and legislation, she has led key reforms for the Queensland Government, most recently in relation to integrity reforms within local government.
Prior to being appointed as Director-General, Bronwyn was Queensland’s Independent Assessor, working closely with stakeholders to implement significant and enduring reform to the councillor complaints framework. Bronwyn is pragmatic and well regarded by stakeholders, seen as someone who works across Government to drive solutions.
Originally from the Balonne Shire, Bronwyn is passionate about regional Queensland and has a particular interest in ensuring the sustainability of local communities, understanding the important role local government, water and volunteering plays in regional Queensland.
Bronwyn is an active volunteer herself and brings this experience to the role of Director-General.
Bronwyn is a strong believer in strengths-based leadership and in leading with kindness and compassion. She is focussed on mentoring others and creating workplaces where staff feel valued.
Joshua Hannan
Deputy Director-General (Local Government), Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers
Josh has more than 20 years’ experience in the Queensland public sector and is especially passionate about delivering for regional communities. Josh has a Bachelor of Business (Organisational Communication), Bachelor of Arts (Media/Journalism) and Master of Business Administration. Josh has a comprehensive and contemporary understanding of the strategic issues facing governments and has expertise in the areas of infrastructure planning and delivery, local government relations and strategic policy.
As General Manager, Transport Strategy and Planning at Transport and Main Roads, Josh forged strong relationships with local governments across Queensland. His experience engaging with the local government sector through the Roads Alliance provides him with a deep appreciation of the challenges faced by councils, particularly related to sustainability, which is the key priority of the department’s Local Government Division.
Josh believes in working hard to find meaningful solutions to complex problems and make a real difference to long-term sustainability.
Jae Lancaster
Deputy Director-General (Water Infrastructure, Policy & Partnerships), Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers
Jae is an experienced senior public service leader whose career is defined by delivering complex, multi-portfolio initiatives that bring together government, industry, and community stakeholders to achieve meaningful outcomes. She has played a central role in shaping state-wide and regional infrastructure strategies, driving economic development, and leading major reform agendas.
Jae has led the Economic Functional Recovery and Resilience Group within Queensland’s Disaster Management Framework for the last decade and has been called on to lead bespoke disaster response and recovery projects across the state – a testament to the trust placed in her ability to mobilise teams and deliver under pressure.
Her leadership is defined by a strong strategic lens, a relentless focus on outcomes, and a proven ability to build high-performing teams through periods of significant change.
Jarrod Cowley-Grimmond
Deputy Director-General (Water Resource Management), Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers
Jarrod has more than 20 years’ experience in policy development and implementation, project management, and best-practice regulation in Queensland and the United Kingdom, with skills in leadership, stakeholder management, intergovernmental relations, strategic reform and legislative development.
Jarrod is also active in the National Regulators’ Community of Practice, and represents Queensland at the Murray–Darling Basin Regulatory Leaders Forum.
Prior to joining the public sector, he worked as a solicitor and as a barrister of the Supreme Court of Queensland.
Jarrod is also the department’s Executive Champion for the LGBTQ+ community, actively supporting inclusion, representation and advocacy for LGBTQ+ employees and stakeholders.
Cr Tony Rayner
Mayor – Longreach Regional Council
Chair - RAPAD
Cr Rayner is a proud Longreach local having completed his primary and secondary education in Longreach before completing his tertiary qualifications at the University of Queensland (Queensland Agricultural College).
He was elected Mayor in the 2020 local government elections after serving the previous four-year term as a Councillor on Longreach Regional Council.
Six years prior he was the Chief Executive Officer of RAPAD Employment Services Queensland (RESQ).
He has a career spanning 30 years as a senior executive within the Queensland Government including roles such as Executive Director for the Australian Agricultural Colleges, Assistant Director-General Department Primary Industries, Executive Director Employment and Economic Development, and Regional Director.
Councillor Rayner was elected as Chair of the Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) following his Mayoral appointment and is also a Board Director for RESQ.
Rachael Webster
Senior Project Coordinator, RAPAD
Rachael Webster is a Senior Project Coordinator with the Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD). Her role involves working across key regional projects including early childhood education and care (ECEC).
Part of this work has seen her lead the development of the RAPAD Review: Early Childhood Education and Care in CWQ report – released in February 2025. She initiated the RAPAD ECEC Alliance of Councils, bringing together councillors and local government staff to work together to strengthen coordinated advocacy, share knowledge and improve service outcomes for families across the region.
The RAPAD ECEC Alliance is working on delivering projects aimed at bringing together stakeholders, service providers, and community representatives to identify practical, region-wide solutions. This has included the first region-wide ECEC online forum in 2025 and targeted meetings with services providers and communities, and most recently the ECEC Action Forums hosted in Longreach and Blackall. Working with The Future Care Project the group currently has a Regional Childcare Access Survey underway.
Rachael is passionate about ensuring equitable access to childcare across the region. Living on a property outside Longreach, Rachael brings a deep personal perspective to her work, understanding firsthand the demands of balancing family life, property responsibilities, and a professional career.
Angela Cochrane
Founder and Director, Future Care Project
Angela Cochrane is the Founder and Director of The Future Care Project, a Queensland-based social enterprise working to close the childcare access gap across regional, rural and remote Australia. Based in Goondiwindi, Angela brings a workforce strategy and operational management lens to the early childhood education and care sector, grounded in two years of research and direct lived experience navigating the complexity of the childcare system in a rural town.
Her work spans grassroots community initiatives through to national advocacy. She presented formal evidence to the Senate Inquiry into the quality and safety of Australia's early childhood education and care system (Submission 60) and works closely with regional councils, peak bodies and federal parliamentarians to advance fit-for-purpose policy provisions that actually work for regional communities. Angela is a mother of three and believes that where a family lives should never determine the opportunities available to them or their children.