26th - 27th August 2026
Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre
Meet the Presenters
Over 70 presenters will be added to the 2026 program, check out the updates each day
Chief Executive Officer, AUSactive
Ken Griffin
Ken Griffin is the Chief Executive Officer of AUSactive, the peak body for Australia's exercise and active health sector. With more than 20 years' experience in healthcare, government affairs, communications and stakeholder engagement, Ken has held senior leadership roles with organisations including GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer, Linfox and the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA). A passionate advocate for preventative health, Ken is committed to strengthening the connection between physical activity and Australia's health system. He works closely with government, industry and health stakeholders to advance policies and initiatives that support more active, healthy communities.
Fitness Business Speaker, Chair Rex Round Table
Justin Tamsett
Justin Tamsett is Australia's most awarded fitness business speaker and an internationally recognised thought leader in the health and fitness industry. With a career spanning more than three decades, Justin began as a gym instructor in 1989 before owning and operating fitness clubs between 1993 and 2008. Since 2005, Justin has chaired REX Roundtables across Australia, supporting fitness business owners, suppliers and franchisees to improve performance, leadership and profitability. In 2020, he joined the US REX Roundtables team, further expanding his influence and industry reach on a global scale. Known for his practical insights and consumer-focused approach, Justin has personally visited and trained in more than 500 fitness facilities since 2015 to better understand the member experience. Combined with the hundreds of gym communications he receives each month, this provides him with a unique global perspective on trends, innovation and best practice across gyms, studios and fitness businesses. Justin is also the host of The Fitness Business Podcast, the world's leading podcast for gym owners and fitness professionals. His passion is helping businesses improve efficiency, leadership and customer experience, all in pursuit of his ultimate goal: getting more people moving, more often, to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs around the world.
Senior Health Club Team Leader, Cockburn ARC
Andrew Ng
Andrew Ng is a senior health, fitness and recreation leader with more than 30 years of experience across community leisure centres, aquatic facilities, premium health clubs and multi-site operations. Beginning his career as a personal trainer in the early 1990s, he has built a broad leadership career focused on participation, member retention, team development and sustainable health and wellbeing outcomes. Andrew currently works in a senior health, fitness and wellbeing leadership role at Cockburn ARC, where he supports health club operations, programming, member experience and team capability within one of Western Australia’s leading leisure facilities. He is recognised for translating strategy into practical systems that strengthen engagement, improve retention and enhance the overall member experience. Prior to joining Cockburn ARC, Andrew held senior leadership roles with Belgravia Leisure, including Area Manager and State Health and Wellness Manager, supporting facilities across Western Australia, South Australia, Queensland and New Zealand. He has also held Centre Manager and operational leadership roles with YMCA WA, contributing to the growth, performance and community impact of recreation facilities across metropolitan and regional Western Australia. Andrew’s career has also included senior management roles in Australia and internationally with Fitness First and The Spa Health Clubs in Hong Kong. Across each stage of his career, he has developed a strong reputation for building high-performing teams, strengthening customer experience and helping facilities use programming, service, data and human connection to drive long-term participation and retention.
Manager Community Planning, City of Karratha
Dr Ceit Wilson
Dr Ceit Wilson is Manager of Community Planning at the City of Karratha. She leads strategic planning for community infrastructure across the City and recently led the development of the Community Infrastructure Plan 2025–2035, which establishes a long-term framework for investment in sport, recreation, aquatic and cultural facilities. Her work focuses on translating community needs and aspirations into practical, deliverable outcomes that balance technical, operational, and organisational considerations.
Senior Project Manager, City of Swan
Jane Redford
Jane Redford is an architect and project manager with over 20 years of experience delivering community-focused design projects across the UK and Western Australia. As City of Swans Senior Project Manager, Jane led the Swan Active Ellenbrook project.
Director, Urbis
Sam Stewart
Samantha Stewart is a Director at Urbis specialising in social infrastructure strategy, recreation planning and community infrastructure business cases across Western Australia. With experience spanning both local government and consulting, she works with councils and agencies to plan and deliver aquatic, recreation and community infrastructure that is evidence-based, financially sustainable and aligned to long-term participation outcomes. Her work spans recreation master planning, strategic planning, business cases and infrastructure investment advice, with a focus on helping organisations make confident and practical decisions about future community infrastructure. Samantha regularly works across multidisciplinary projects involving economics, engagement, governance and urban planning, bringing a strong understanding of the relationship between infrastructure planning, participation and community outcomes.
CEO Perth Glory
Anthony Radich
Anthony Radich is the Chief Executive Officer of Perth Glory Football Club and an experienced sports executive with more than 20 years of leadership experience across professional sport, commercial operations and business management. Prior to returning to Perth Glory as CEO in 2022, Anthony held senior executive roles with the Perth Wildcats and previously served as Head of Commercial and Chief Operations Officer at Perth Glory. Anthony has extensive expertise in strategic leadership, commercial growth, stakeholder engagement and organisational development. He has played a key role in strengthening sporting organisations through challenging periods while building sustainable partnerships and driving long-term growth.
Principal School of Swimming & Water Safety, Dept of Education
Peter Lillywhite
Peter is the inaugural Principal of the School of Swimming and Water Safety at the Department of Education, Western Australia. Established in 2025 with $3.3 million in State Government funding, the specialist school oversees the delivery of VacSwim and in-term swimming programs to more than 230,000 students each year. Peter brings extensive experience as a senior educational leader, having previously served as Principal of Duncraig Senior High School, Associate Principal at Rossmoyne Senior High School, and Manager of Physical and Health Education within the Department. Peter is a regular contributor to national water safety forums, including the 2025 National Water Safety Summit and is passionate about ensuring equitable access to swimming and water safety education for all Western Australian children.
Founder, Purpose Driven Performance
Peter Minchin
Pete Minchin is the founder of Purpose Driven Performance, a sport and recreation consultancy helping organisations develop strategies that grow participation, strengthen communities and deliver sustainable business outcomes. With more than 25 years’ experience across the sport, fitness and recreation sectors, Pete has worked with national and state sporting organisations, local governments, clubs, recreation providers and community sport organisations. His work focuses on strategy, governance, organisational capability, member and participant engagement, and turning insight into practical action. Pete has held senior industry roles including Association CEO, Board Director, Sport Australia Consultant and leisure facility manager, and has also co-owned and grown a swim school from 40 to 800 students per week. He holds an MBA, a Bachelor of Science with Honours, and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Manager Community Development, City of Wanneroo
Katie Russell
Katie Russell is an award-winning senior local government leader with 20 years’ experience strengthening trust, connection and communication capability across complex community-facing services. She has led major transformation initiatives spanning community development, cultural services, customer experience and emergency management, consistently delivering customer-first, evidence-based approaches. Katie is known for her expertise in co-design and meaningful community engagement, working with diverse groups, including Aboriginal Elders, multicultural communities, young people and people with disability, to embed authentic community voice into service design and decision-making. As Chair of the WA Government North West Metropolitan District Leadership Group, she brings agencies together to address complex issues and improve regional wellbeing. A collaborative, values-driven leader, Katie is recognised for building high-performing teams and cross-sector partnerships that deliver positive public outcomes.
Manager Community Facilities, City of Wanneroo
Rohan Klemm
Rohan Klemm is a community-focused local government leader with more than 20 years’ senior leadership experience across community facilities, sport and recreation, and public service delivery. With a Master’s degree in Sports Management, he brings both strategic insight and a genuine passion for creating places and services that support people to connect, participate, and thrive. Throughout his career, Rohan has led multidisciplinary teams, strengthened partnerships, and supported facility and service improvements that respond to local needs. Known for his collaborative and practical approach, he is committed to delivering meaningful outcomes that make communities more inclusive, accessible, and welcoming
Childsafe & Compliance Officer, Shooting Stars
Ava Brock
Ava Brock is a proud Gunditjmara Kerrupmara woman born and raised in Victoria’s north-east. As Childsafe and Compliance Officer at Shooting Stars, she leads child safety, governance and compliance practices across the organisation- safeguarding the wellbeing and legislative rights of participants, staff and community, to help ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls participating in the program are supported in safe, culturally responsive environments. Ava's commitment to this work is deeply personal. Witnessing her father's family reconnect with culture and identity in the wake of the Stolen Generations ignited a lifelong journey to strengthen her own connection to culture, community and purpose. This passion led her to the Kimberley, where she worked as a Case Manager across Aged Care and the NDIS with a local Aboriginal Medical Service. Immersed in communities with strong cultural connections to Country, Ava built meaningful relationships and gained valuable experience that continues to shape her approach to leadership and advocacy. Drawn to Shooting Stars vision and values, Ava later relocated to Perth to join the organisation. Since then, she has found not only a career, but a powerful network of women whose cultural knowledge, lived experience and collective wisdom continue to inspire her. She is particularly proud that community voice guides the organisation's decision-making, ensuring programs are designed with, by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Witnessing young Aboriginal girls grow in confidence and thrive through the program is, for Ava, the heart of why this work matters.
General Manager at Royal Life Saving NSW
Craig Roberts
Craig Roberts is the General Manager at Royal Life Saving NSW and Drowning Prevention Australia. With a background in public safety and emergency management, Craig leads work across government relations, advocacy and public affairs, sector development, and statewide initiatives that strengthen capability and deliver impact across drowning prevention and the aquatic industry. Craig is a lead author of the GSPO, Inland Waterway and Coastal Public Safety Guidelines and is an experienced Lead Investigator and Expert Witness in aquatic safety. He has a particular interest in leadership development, people behaviour, and organisational culture, with a strong focus on building leadership capability and collaboration across the aquatic and community safety sectors.
Dangerous Goods Safety Officer, WorkSafe WA
Heather Shaw
Heather Shaw is a seasoned Dangerous Goods Safety Officer with an Environmental Science background and over 15 years’ experience managing dangerous goods in both heavy industry and regulatory roles. She currently leads safety initiatives within WorkSafe WA’s Dangerous Goods Safety Branch, across all classes, industries, and aspects of dangerous goods management throughout the state. Heather recently investigated a significant chlorine gas release at a public swimming pool, and is using this experience to identify safety learnings and promote enhanced compliance across the aquatics industry. She is committed to working collaboratively with organisations to protect communities through effective risk management, regulation, and knowledge sharing.
Division Manager, Shenton Aquatics
David Watson
David Watson is currently Division Manager for Shenton Aquatics. He has worked in the swimming pool industry since 1986 across several countries. David is an ex accredited dangerous goods consultant.
General Manager, Hamersley Public Golf Course
Clarke Osborne
Clarke Osborne is a dynamic and results-driven General Manager with more than 12 years’ leadership experience in golf and leisure facility management, backed by over 33 years in the golf industry, including a decade as a Touring Golf Professional. He currently leads Hamersley Public Golf Course for the City of Stirling, where he has driven major growth in participation, revenue, and community engagement through strategic planning, operational excellence, and facility redevelopment. Passionate about sustainable growth and community-focused leisure operations, he brings practical insight into leading high-performing recreational facilities in an evolving industry.
Coordinator Programs, Cannington & Riverton Leisureplex
Candy Murphy
Candy Murphy is the Coordinator Programs for the City of Canning Leisureplexes (Riverton & Cannington), overseeing health & fitness, swim school and sports & leisure programs across two major facilities. She leads a workforce of over 220 staff contributing to more than 1.5 million visits annually. Candy has progressed through the aquatic and recreation industry over the past 18 years from operational staff to senior leadership, bringing extensive frontline and strategic experience. She is passionate about developing people, building high-performing teams and creating clear pathways for emerging leaders. Her leadership approach focuses on coaching, performance optimisation, team cohesion and creating strong workplace culture. Candy is committed to supporting leaders to grow their teams and improve participation outcomes across the industry through practical, people-focused leadership..
Programs Coordinator, Armadale Fitness & Aquatic Centre
Shai Zerbes
Shai Zerbes is an experienced leisure and recreation industry manager with more than 15 years’ experience managing large and dynamic teams in multi-functional operations. She’s developed her leadership style to foster engagement and commitment from team members to drive high performance and achieve organisational excellence. Shai’s current role is the Program’s Coordinator for the City of Armadale – Armadale Fitness and Aquatic Centre (AFAC) overseeing the health and fitness, swim school and creche programs. Recognised for building high-performing teams, improving operational systems and creating safe, engaging environments for both staff and customers. She’s passionate about being hands on to bring a solutions-focused approach to leading people, managing complexity and driving continuous improvement.
Leadership Expert
Ian Crawford
Ian Crawford is an international leadership speaker, facilitator and coach with more than 30 years of experience helping leaders build high-performing teams. As the owner of Candor Training and Consultancy, he has worked with organisations across Australia and internationally, delivering leadership and team development programs throughout Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. Drawing on a unique background in education, elite sport, organisational consulting and international facilitation, Ian combines practical leadership strategies with engaging stories and real-world experience. His clients include the United Nations, Rio Tinto, BHP, Woodside, Downer, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Singapore Government and organisations across all levels of government. Known for his energetic, thought-provoking style, Ian challenges leaders to move beyond leadership theory and focus on creating genuine impact through the people they lead. His sessions are practical, interactive and designed to leave participants with tools they can immediately apply in the workplace.
Sport & Recreation Infrastructure Planner, City of Melville
Michelle Francis
Michelle Francis is passionate about creating lasting community impact through sport, recreation, and community infrastructure. She began her career in club development roles across local government and state sporting associations before transitioning into community facilities planning. Alongside her professional career, Michelle has contributed extensively to the sector through volunteer leadership roles, serving on committees from general member positions through to Board Director appointments. Having started her facilities planning journey in regional Western Australia and now working with the City of Melville, she is committed to delivering community-focused facilities that create meaningful and lasting outcomes for local communities
De-escalation Facilitator, Evolve
Dr Christian Mauri
Earning glowing reviews for his insight, knowledge and deep human connection, Dr Christian Mauri is a community organiser, author, experienced educator and self‑described “recovering academic”. Prior to focussing his career on facilitation, speaking and training, Christian was an associate lecturer in the fields of sociology and international development. He holds a Ph.D. in Sociology and a Bachelor of Arts with First Class Honours in disability studies. Specialising in sociology and the relationship between work and stress, his academic research appears in numerous international publications. Best known for bringing leaders in politics and business together with workers and citizens, Christian is a recognised expert in community engagement with a rare ability to connect people who hold clashing views and values. A sought-after keynote speaker, Christian blends rigorous sociological insight with a talent for making complex ideas clear and accessible. Admired for his eloquence, intellect and calm presence, Christian’s greatest strength is his capacity to tailor every keynote presentation to the specific needs, dynamics and nuances of each audience. A grounded, compelling speaker, he brings warmth, clarity and inspiration to any event, leaving audiences energised and deeply connected.
Team Leader, Naturaliste Community Centre, City of Busselton
Chiara Philipoff
Chiara Philipoff is an experienced local government sport and recreation leader with over 15 years in the industry. Beginning her career as a swim teacher in 2011, she has progressively advanced through operational and leadership roles across major multi-use leisure facilities. The early part of Chiara’s career was spent in metropolitan Perth, where she worked across four different local governments in aquatic and recreation centres. During this time, she developed strong operational expertise and learned to effectively manage and oversee large, complex, multi-faceted facilities. Chiara later transitioned to regional Western Australia, where she has now spent seven years working in both the Pilbara and the South West. In her role with the City of Karratha, she progressed into senior leadership positions, overseeing multi-site operations, leading teams, developing strategic infrastructure plans, and delivering large-scale community programs and events. Her regional experience has given her a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by regional communities, as well as the differences in delivering sustainable and impactful recreation services compared to metropolitan environments. Now based in Busselton, Chiara is the Team Leader at the Naturaliste Community Centre, where she leads the day-to-day operations of a multi-use community facility. She applies a community-led approach to service delivery, shaped by ongoing engagement, testing, and continuous improvement. Passionate about health and wellbeing, Chiara is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where people feel inspired to participate, build social connections, and improve their overall wellbeing. Chiara holds a Bachelor of Science (Nursing) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching, bringing a unique, people-centred perspective to community development and service delivery.
Coordinator Recreation Centre, City of Mandurah
Adrian Timms
Adrian Timms has more than 30 years of experience in the aquatic and recreation industry across the United Kingdom and Western Australia. Currently the Recreation Centre Coordinator at the City of Mandurah, Adrian has held a range of leadership roles in local government, specialising in aquatic facility operations, recreation management and community service delivery. With extensive experience in facility management, strategic planning and operational leadership, Adrian is committed to delivering high-quality aquatic and recreation services and sharing practical industry knowledge.
Vice President of IAKS International
Yvette Audet
Yvette Audet is Vice President of IAKS International and Marketing Manager for Fluidra Commercial ANZ. Currently serving her second four-year term on the IAKS International Board, she also contributes to the International Aquatic Expert Circle, supporting global collaboration in sport and leisure facility development. Yvette leads commercial marketing across Australia and New Zealand for Fluidra, a multinational aquatic manufacturer, driving initiatives that promote innovative, sustainable aquatic solutions. With more than 30 years’ experience in the sport, leisure and aquatic industry, she brings extensive knowledge across facility operations, community engagement and strategic marketing. Passionate about facilitating a more active world, Yvette champions participation through her professional roles and her relatable “sporting mum” persona, inspiring communities and the next generation to stay active
Chairman, Pickleball WA
Peter Withnell
Peter Withnell is Chair of the Pickleball Association of Western Australia (PAWA), the recognised State Sporting Association responsible for the promotion and development of pickleball across Western Australia. A passionate advocate for the sport, Peter has played a key role in its rapid growth since its introduction to Western Australia in 2016, supporting the establishment of clubs, playing venues and competitions throughout both metropolitan and regional communities. PAWA works closely with Pickleball Australia, local governments and community organisations to grow participation, develop facilities, deliver education and training opportunities, and build sustainable pathways for players of all ages and abilities. As one of Australia's fastest-growing sports, pickleball is attracting thousands of new participants through its social, inclusive and accessible nature. Peter is passionate about helping communities embrace the sport and creating more opportunities for people to stay active, connected and engaged through recreation.
Trainer, Workplace Mental Health, Evolve
Helen Hanson
Helen Hanson has worked as a Registered Nurse for over 35 years including significant experience with mental health nursing. Also an experienced adult educator, Helen has extensive training experience, specialising in change management and Workplace Mental Health. She is a certified practitioner in the Intuitive Intelligence method and also works as a Mindfulness coach and as a Self -Expression and Leadership coach. In 2020 she completed Therapeutic Crisis Intervention training with Perth Children’s Hospital, which directly informs all of her work in Mental Health and interpersonal skills. Helen is an engaging and interactive trainer who draws on her unique combination of health sector experience and performing arts skills to engage groups in stimulating and thought provoking training
Recreation and Community Development Coordinator, City of Busselton
Adrian Fisher
Adrian is a sports and leisure industry professional with extensive experience in community recreation, facility management, program development and stakeholder engagement. Throughout his career he has worked across a broad range of leisure, sport, and community services focusing on creating accessible, sustainable and impactful opportunities for participation. He currently serves as a National Board Director with the Australian Council for Health, Physical Education and Recreation (ACHPER) contributing to the advancement of health, physical activity, recreation, and education outcomes across Australia. Passionate about innovation and continuous improvement, Adrian has led initiatives that strengthen community wellbeing, enhance operational performance and build meaningful connections between people and places. He is particularly interested in practical solutions that help organisations adapt to changing community needs while delivering high quality experiences.
Trainer & Assessor, RLSWA
Paris Kelley
Paris has worked in the aquatics industry for over 16 years, building extensive experience across a range of operational and leadership roles. Beginning her career as a cleaner, she progressed through positions including Pool Lifeguard, Duty Officer and, more recently, Swim Teacher. Currently serving as the Trainer and Assessor Co-ordinator at Royal Life Saving WA, Paris has spent the past three years focused on developing the next generation of aquatic professionals. She is passionate about sharing her industry knowledge and practical experience with aspiring first responders, lifeguards and aquatic technical operators, helping to build a skilled and capable aquatic workforce.
Technical Directors, AIS Water
Blake Pearl
Blake is the Technical Director at AIS Water, where he leads the company's technical strategy and customer engagement across Australia and international markets. With extensive experience in water treatment and disinfection technologies, he is recognised for combining technical expertise with a practical, customer-focused approach. As the primary technical contact for many of AIS Water's clients, Blake works closely with pool builders, commercial operators, engineers and distributors to develop tailored water treatment solutions that deliver reliable performance and long-term value. His ability to understand complex technical challenges and communicate them in a straightforward, practical way has earned the trust of customers and industry partners alike. Blake also plays a key role in connecting customer needs with product development. Working alongside AIS Water's Research and Development team, he provides valuable market intelligence and real-world feedback that helps guide innovation and ensures new products continue to meet the changing demands of the industry. Driven by a passion for excellence, Blake is committed to delivering outstanding customer service while helping AIS Water maintain its reputation for quality, innovation and technical leadership. As the business continues to expand, he remains focused on building lasting partnerships and supporting customers with practical solutions that make a real difference.
Business Planning & Service Coordinator, City of Stirling
Duncan Hutton
Duncan is the Business Planning and Service Coordinator at the City of Stirling and the Treasurer of the Leisure Institute of WA. With over 20 years of experience in the aquatic and recreation industry, Duncan’s career spans frontline aquatic roles, facility management, and strategic service planning. He has driven major capital projects including the $14 million Stirling Leisure Inglewood Outdoor Redevelopment and pioneered the implementation of AI drowning detection systems in Western Australia. A lifelong surf lifesaver with City of Perth Surf Club, Duncan is passionate about community safety, equitable access to aquatic facilities, and delivering services that make a genuine difference.
Operations Coordinator, Recreation & Leisure Services, City of Stirling
Tenille Kenny
Tenille Kenny brings over 20 years of experience in the fitness industry, throughout her career, she has led the development and delivery of inclusive, high-quality health and fitness programs within local government facilities. As the Health & Fitness Team Leader at the City of Stirling, Tenille was responsible for coordinating health and fitness operations across four major facilities: Stirling Leisure – Inglewood, Balga, Scarborough, and Scarborough Beach. Currently, Tenille works as the Operations Coordinator at the City of Stirling.
Enrichment & Development Manager, Shooting Stars
Casey Monk
Casey Monk is the Enrichment & Development Manager at Shooting Stars, where she leads the strategic design and evolution of place-based programs that support the social and emotional wellbeing, leadership, and development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls and young women across regional and remote Australia. With a background in health promotion and youth development, Casey specialises in creating culturally grounded, community-led initiatives that strengthen resilience, identity, belonging, and participation. Her work sits at the intersection of health promotion, early intervention, and community engagement, bringing together evidence-informed practice, cultural knowledge, and lived experience to create meaningful opportunities for young people to thrive. Casey has led the development of innovative enrichment initiatives including Deadly Minds Matter, Sparks, Art With the Stars, and On Country experiences, each designed to foster social and emotional wellbeing, emotional literacy, cultural connection, confidence, and leadership. Her approach is grounded in the belief that sustainable wellbeing outcomes are built through trusted relationships, community voice, and culturally responsive environments where young people feel safe, connected, and empowered. In 2025, the Deadly Minds Matter program was recognised with the WA Mental Health Award for Innovation in Service Delivery, presented by Youth Focus. In 2026, Shooting Stars also received the Excellence in Health Promotion Award for Innovation in recognition of its Enrichment Program. Casey is passionate about creating systems, programs, and opportunities that support long-term thriving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls and young women.
Group Exercise Supervisor, Aqua Jetty, City of Rockingham
Jodie Moore
Jodie Moore has been a qualified fitness professional since 2003 and is passionate about helping older adults stay strong, active and independent through evidence-based exercise. Jodie works closely with COTA WA and delivers the award-winning Strength for Life program at the City of Rockingham's Aqua Jetty. Strength for Life is a progressive strength training program for people aged 50 and over, designed to improve strength, balance, mobility and overall wellbeing while supporting healthy ageing and reducing the risk of falls. The program has been operating in Western Australia since 2004 and now supports more than 5,500 participants through over 40 accredited providers across the State. Jodie has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to healthy ageing, receiving COTA WA's Most Outstanding Metropolitan Instructor award in both 2017 and 2018. She has also led the Aqua Jetty team in delivering an award-winning Strength for Life program, recognised for its positive impact on the health, wellbeing and social connection of older adults in the Rockingham community.
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Team Leader Aquatic Operations, AFAC, City of Armadale
Kristen Olivieri
Kristen Olivieri is currently the Team Leader Aquatics Operations at the multi award-winning Armadale Fitness & Aquatic Centre and has more than eight years of experience in the Local Government and Leisure Industry. Throughout her career, Kristen has worked across several leading Western Australian facilities, including Kwinana Recquatic, Riverton Leisureplex and Cannington Leisureplex, developing extensive experience in aquatic operations, team leadership and workforce development. Holding a Bachelor of Health and Physical Education (Secondary), Kristen is passionate about education, professional development and improving water safety outcomes within the community. She is recognised for her front-facing leadership style, her ability to engage and motivate teams, and her commitment to creating practical, innovative training and education programs that build capability and strengthen workplace culture. Kristen is dedicated to developing confident, knowledgeable aquatic professionals who deliver safe, high-quality experiences for their communities.
Team Leader Aquatic, Recreation Centres, City of Mandurah
Amy Giltrow
Amy Giltrow is an experienced aquatic professional with 17 years in local government. Currently working with the City of Mandurah, her background is in aquatic operations, team leadership, and community-focused service delivery. She is passionate about facility maintenance and takes pride in ensuring safe, reliable, and high-quality environments that support health, wellbeing, and strong community connections.
Senior Inspector Scientific Officer, WorkSafe WA, Dept of Local Government, Regulation and Safety
Mark Lewis
Mark Lewis is a Senior Inspector / Scientific Officer in the Occupational Health and Hygiene Team at WorkSafe WA. In this role he deals with a wide range of occupational health and hygiene issues throughout many sectors of industry. Mark has 22 years experience in occupational safety and health and prior to this worked in Environmental Health where he dealt with the aquatics industry for many years.
Acting Manager Community Wellbeing, City of Bunbury
Dave Russell
Dave Russell is currently the Acting Manager Community Wellbeing overseeing rangers, health, community safety and emergency management although his substantive position is the Manager of Sport and Recreation for the City of Bunbury and has the SW Sports Centre and Community Recreation portfolio since 2020. Dave has worked in local government for 34 years. Dave made his entry into the industry at 18 as a lifeguard at Melville Aquatic Centre and has managed aquatic facilities at Kellerberrin (many moons ago), Exmouth, Leschenault Leisure Centre and in more recent times the South West Sports Centre. Dave took a break from the recreation industry for 8 years and undertook work in the area of contracts and tenders, project management, fleet management, procurement and stores. Dave has also covered Director of Infrastructure and Director of Planning Positions a number of times when called upon for extended periods. With a passion for workplace culture and leadership Dave loves to explore getting the most out of teams and making things as simple and effective as possible. Dave is privileged to be here today and grateful after all these years in the industry he still has all his hair (albeit grey). Useless fact about Dave is if he always has a holiday countdown “app” on his phone for his next trip overseas.
State Manager Employment Services, RLSWA
Tim Turner
Tim Turner is an innovative award-winning community development professional focused on workforce solutions. Engaged as the State Manager for Employment Services with Royal Life Saving WA he has championed the establishment and statewide expansion of the Talent Pool Academy dedicated to first time jobs for Aboriginal youth. More recently Tim and his team have partnered with the Town of Port Hedland and Aboriginal leaders to support their vision for a safer community and safer pool deck in a project called “The Guardians”. The success of this project is embedded in a framework of cultural safety and respect led by the Aboriginal community working closely with local government. The opportunity exist to hear about this journey and how it might be applied to your local area
Director Planning and Community Development, Shire of Wyndam|East Kimberley
Nick Allen
Nick Allen is the Director of Planning and Community Development at the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley, where he leads a diverse portfolio of planning, recreation, community development and major infrastructure projects that support some of Western Australia's most remote communities. Passionate about recreation and community development, Nick has extensive experience delivering strategic community infrastructure and fostering active, connected communities. His project leadership includes the $15.5 million Kununurra Leisure Centre Aquatic Redevelopment, the Kununurra Splash Park, Wyndham Oval Change Room Upgrade and major sports lighting projects. He has also played a key role in developing strategic plans, mentoring recreation teams and strengthening community outcomes across the East Kimberley. Nick is committed to creating high-quality, accessible community facilities that enhance liveability and support participation, health and wellbeing for current and future generations.