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One of the strengths of the Puuya Foundation
and a vital feature of the Puuya Approach is ensuring
that all our initiatives are community-led.
One of the strengths of the Puuya Foundation and a vital feature of the Puuya Approach is ensuring that all our initiatives are community-led.
We maintain a balance of community leadership and corporate experience to deliver our strategy and drive innovation and reform. We are also mindful that the expertise and/or resources we need to support and achieve community-driven objectives will sometimes need to come from outside the community. To this end, we value the commitment and passion shown by all of our board members, our Patrons and our Alumni.
We maintain a balance of community leadership and corporate experience to deliver our strategy and drive innovation and reform. We are also mindful that the expertise and/or resources we need to support and achieve community-driven objectives will sometimes need to come from outside the community. To this end, we value the commitment and passion shown by all of our board members, our Patrons and our Alumni.
Dorothy, or Dotty as she is known in the community, is a proud Kuuku Ya’u woman. She is the Deputy Mayor and previously served as the Council Chairperson from 1994 – 1997. Dotty provides leadership across the community supporting the Lockhart River Arts Centre, Justice Group and the award-winning Kwandia Wimpa Dance Troupe. Previously employed as the Community Development Director, Dotty led the team that won the Queensland Smart Women, Smart State Award in 2008. Regionally, Dottie has led reform for the Cape York region as a board representative of Apunipima Cape York Health Council and led initiatives to empower women, including participation in the National Indigenous Women’s Leadership Program, completing her Diploma in Community Development in 2008.
As a community leader, Dotty firmly believes: “As a leader, you have to be a strong person. You must talk for the whole community, not just for yourself or your own family. You have to be a role model and a fun person”. As a mother of three children, and grandmother, she believes that everyone can be a leader in their community. Dotty also proudly designed the Puuya Foundation logo.
Craig’s career has encompassed all aspects of community and stakeholder engagement over the last 30 years. His current role is as a director of RREDD (Risk Response Engage Design and Develop). RREDD is a majority Indigenous-owned corporation with a focus on matters that are complex or involve violence. RREDD has current contracts in the Northern Territory, Aurukun and PNG. Much of the work involves community engagement, dispute resolution and problem-solving in complex environments. Craig brings design, financial management and dispute resolution strengths to his director role at Puuya. Craig holds a BSc (Hons) in environmental science, an Executive MBA, is a graduate of the AICD, is a graduate of the Australian Rural Leadership Program and is an accredited mediator in Australia and PNG. He is also a current Doctoral student with a research focus on the resolution of community violence. Finally, Craig is a keen bicycle rider and volunteer Surf Life Saving.
Wayne has supported the strategic direction of the Puuya Foundation, as a community leader before becoming a board member in 2019. Wayne is serving in his third term as Mayor of Lockhart River Council, is the former Chairperson of the Torres and Cape Indigenous Councils Alliance and is a member of the Qld Local Government Executive Committee. Wayne is a proud Aboriginal man with kin ties to Uuhtalnganu and Umpila people of Eastern Cape York, Lockhart River region.
Wayne is passionate about building the next generation of leadership in his community, with a focus on education and creating unique learning opportunities and pathways.
Paul Piva is a Lockhart River community member and the Strategic Community Advisor to the Puuya Foundation. Paul previously held the position of Councillor with the Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council from 2016 to 2020. As a local community business owner, Paul is passionate about building the next generation of leaders through education to take on the economic opportunities created by today’s leadership.
Marian Pettit manages a network of over 60 local community organisations across Australia to deliver the Brotherhood of St Laurence’s flagship early learning and parenting – Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY) in 100 communities. Marian has over 30 years of experience working in social policy and delivering services in government. Marian has also worked with Cape York indigenous communities and has lived in the Lockhart River for a time. She holds a degree in applied science and a diploma in public management.
Adam Bray is the inaugural General Manager of Indigenous Strategy and Affairs for the Woolworths Group, having previously also worked as a specialist advisor for the Australian Human Rights Commission, Shell Australia and Telstra Corporation.
Adam is a proud Iman man and active member of the Iman Traditional Owner group who combines his cultural background and lived experiences with his education and diverse career path to advocate for the rights and interests of Indigenous people and communities.
As a proud veteran of the Royal Australia Navy, and having served in numerous operational environments, Adam has a genuine passion for unlocking human potential and building high-value organisational capability.
Kate is a seasoned executive leader with a career that spans the public, education, and community sectors. Previous roles include CEO of ACA Queensland, Principal Advocacy Officer at the Office of the Public Guardian, Head of College at Duchesne College (UQ) and CEO of YWCA Queensland. Kate has a commitment to active citizenship and community service; she has served on governing and advisory bodies for more than 20 years. Kate holds a Master of Business from QUT, a BA (Communication) from UTS and a Certificate in Governance Practice from GIA.
An Indigenous executive with over 23 years of experience driving strategic delivery of projects and organisational and business growth, utilising an extensive network and connections across Cape York communities, within not for profit, corporate and philanthropic communities.
Kirsty joined the Puuya Foundation in 2020, after holding executive roles in not for profit, corporate and the private sector, leading land tenure negotiations, economic development opportunities and indigenous reform agendas. She has built nationally recognised programs and strategies within the Indigenous affairs sector.
In August 2022, after growing the Foundations local capability and operations, Kirsty transitioned into the role of Executive Director, continuing to lead strategic growth, partnerships and stakeholder engagement while committed to expanding networks and building organisational sustainability.
Dorothy, or Dotty as she is known in the community, is a proud Kuuku Ya’u woman. She is the Deputy Mayor and previously served as the Council Chairperson from 1994 – 1997. Dotty provides leadership across the community supporting the Lockhart River Arts Centre, Justice Group and the award-winning Kwandia Wimpa Dance Troupe. Previously employed as the Community Development Director, Dotty led the team that won the Queensland Smart Women, Smart State Award in 2008. Regionally, Dottie has led reform for the Cape York region as a board representative of Apunipima Cape York Health Council and led initiatives to empower women, including participation in the National Indigenous Women’s Leadership Program, completing her Diploma in Community Development in 2008.
As a community leader, Dotty firmly believes: “As a leader, you have to be a strong person. You must talk for the whole community, not just for yourself or your own family. You have to be a role model and a fun person”. As a mother of three children, and grandmother, she believes that everyone can be a leader in their community. Dotty also proudly designed the Puuya Foundation logo.
Craig’s career has encompassed all aspects of community and stakeholder engagement over the last 30 years. His current role is as a director of RREDD (Risk Response Engage Design and Develop). RREDD is a majority Indigenous-owned corporation with a focus on matters that are complex or involve violence. RREDD has current contracts in the Northern Territory, Aurukun and PNG. Much of the work involves community engagement, dispute resolution and problem-solving in complex environments. Craig brings design, financial management and dispute resolution strengths to his director role at Puuya. Craig holds a BSc (Hons) in environmental science, an Executive MBA, is a graduate of the AICD, is a graduate of the Australian Rural Leadership Program and is an accredited mediator in Australia and PNG. He is also a current Doctoral student with a research focus on the resolution of community violence. Finally, Craig is a keen bicycle rider and volunteer Surf Life Saving.
Wayne has supported the strategic direction of the Puuya Foundation, as a community leader before becoming a board member in 2019. Wayne is serving in his third term as Mayor of Lockhart River Council, is the former Chairperson of the Torres and Cape Indigenous Councils Alliance and is a member of the Qld Local Government Executive Committee. Wayne is a proud Aboriginal man with kin ties to Uuhtalnganu and Umpila people of Eastern Cape York, Lockhart River region.
Wayne is passionate about building the next generation of leadership in his community, with a focus on education and creating unique learning opportunities and pathways.
Paul Piva is a Lockhart River community member and the Strategic Community Advisor to the Puuya Foundation. Paul previously held the position of Councillor with the Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council from 2016 to 2020. As a local community business owner, Paul is passionate about building the next generation of leaders through education to take on the economic opportunities created by today’s leadership.
Marian Pettit manages a network of over 60 local community organisations across Australia to deliver the Brotherhood of St Laurence’s flagship early learning and parenting – Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY) in 100 communities. Marian has over 30 years of experience working in social policy and delivering services in government. Marian has also worked with Cape York indigenous communities and has lived in the Lockhart River for a time. She holds a degree in applied science and a diploma in public management.
Jason has over 15 years of experience in finance and accounting roles. He currently works within Westpac’s business bank supporting clients in several industries to achieve their strategic objectives. Jason holds an undergraduate degree in accounting and a master’s degree in finance from QUT. Jason is passionate about helping the Puuya Foundation meet the needs of the Lockhart River community for today and into the future.
Kate is a seasoned executive leader with a career that spans the public, education, and community sectors. Previous roles include CEO of ACA Queensland, Principal Advocacy Officer at the Office of the Public Guardian, Head of College at Duchesne College (UQ) and CEO of YWCA Queensland. Kate has a commitment to active citizenship and community service; she has served on governing and advisory bodies for more than 20 years. Kate holds a Master of Business from QUT, a BA (Communication) from UTS and a Certificate in Governance Practice from GIA.
An Indigenous executive with over 23 years of experience driving strategic delivery of projects and organisational and business growth, utilising an extensive network and connections across Cape York communities, within not for profit, corporate and philanthropic communities.
Kirsty joined the Puuya Foundation in 2020, after holding executive roles in not for profit, corporate and the private sector, leading land tenure negotiations, economic development opportunities and indigenous reform agendas. She has built nationally recognised programs and strategies within the Indigenous affairs sector.
In August 2022, after growing the Foundations local capability and operations, Kirsty transitioned into the role of Executive Director, continuing to lead strategic growth, partnerships and stakeholder engagement while committed to expanding networks and building organisational sustainability.
The Puuya Foundation is privileged to enjoy the patronage of the Honourable Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO (former Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia and Governor of Queensland) and Mr Jim Varghese AM.
Ms Bryce has actively supported the Puuya Foundation for many years, acting as a wise guide, mentor, inspiration, friend and generous supporter of the Puuya Foundation, and women in the community more broadly.
Quentin Bryce first visited Lockhart River in 2004 in her capacity as Governor of Queensland. During this trip Ms Bryce was able to see the significant challenges faced by the people of Lockhart River,
the spirit of the local people and the impact the Puuya Approach
was already having in the community.
Ms Bryce’s support for the work of the Puuya Foundation and for the people of Lockhart River has been steadfast since that time, and has continued on during her time as Governor General of Australia and beyond. We are both honoured and grateful for the ongoing support of our Patron, our mentor, and our friend.
Jim Varghese led the first site visit to Lockhart River, that led to the placement of Denise Hagan supporting the community and instigating the establishment of the Puuya Foundation. Jim was a founding Director of the Puuya Foundation and the Deputy Chairperson before retiring from the board in 2021 and joining Dame Quentin Bryce as our male Patron.
Jim is the owner and Chair of The Leadership Company Qld Pty Ltd which specialises in leadership and organisational transformation.
He was CEO, Springfield Land Corporation from 2008-2012 and is now an Independent Director of the company. Jim has over 30 years experience in the Australian public sector in leading multifaceted government agencies covering transport, education, training, employment and primary industries. As a Director-General, Jim has successfully driven and implemented the Queensland Government’s Smart State reform agenda in Main Roads, Education, Training, Employment and Primary Industries and Fisheries. Jim is the Chancellor of Torrens University and sponsored much innovation there, including Learning Circles.
Jim was recognised in the 2009 Australian Government Honours’
List with the Member of the Order of Australia for service to public administration in Queensland through the development of policy reform and implementation, and to the community. Jim was awarded
the Centenary Medal for services to the Public Sector in 2001.
The Puuya Foundation is privileged to enjoy the patronage of the Honourable Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO (former Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia and Governor of Queensland) and Mr Jim Varghese AM.
Ms Bryce has actively supported the Puuya Foundation for many years, acting as a wise guide, mentor, inspiration, friend and generous supporter of the Puuya Foundation, and women in the community more broadly.
Quentin Bryce first visited Lockhart River in 2004 in her capacity as Governor of Queensland. During this trip Ms Bryce was able to see the significant challenges faced by the people of Lockhart River,
the spirit of the local people and the impact the Puuya Approach
was already having in the community.
Ms Bryce’s support for the work of the Puuya Foundation and for the people of Lockhart River has been steadfast since that time, and has continued on during her time as Governor General of Australia and beyond. We are both honoured and grateful for the ongoing support of our Patron, our mentor, and our friend.
Jim Varghese led the first site visit to Lockhart River, that led to the placement of Denise Hagan supporting the community and instigating the establishment of the Puuya Foundation. Jim was a founding Director of the Puuya Foundation and the Deputy Chairperson before retiring from the board in 2021 and joining Dame Quentin Bryce as our male Patron.
Jim is the owner and Chair of The Leadership Company Qld Pty Ltd which specialises in leadership and organisational transformation.
He was CEO, Springfield Land Corporation from 2008-2012 and is now an Independent Director of the company. Jim has over 30 years experience in the Australian public sector in leading multifaceted government agencies covering transport, education, training, employment and primary industries. As a Director-General, Jim has successfully driven and implemented the Queensland Government’s Smart State reform agenda in Main Roads, Education, Training, Employment and Primary Industries and Fisheries. Jim is the Chancellor of Torrens University and sponsored much innovation there, including Learning Circles.
Jim was recognised in the 2009 Australian Government Honours’
List with the Member of the Order of Australia for service to public administration in Queensland through the development of policy reform and implementation, and to the community. Jim was awarded
the Centenary Medal for services to the Public Sector in 2001.
Our work is led by our CEO Emma Schuh who is supported by our talented team including, 7 indigenous staff in Lockhart River, and our Executive Team based in Cairns. Emma is an experienced indigenous educator who has previously managed both childcare centres and integrated service delivery organisations. Our team is committed to the development of our organisation, to support and empower the Lochart River community, in early year’s education, family support services and social emotional wellbeing.
Our work is led by our CEO Emma Schuh who is supported by our talented team including, 7 indigenous staff in Lockhart River, and our Executive Team based in Cairns. Emma is an experienced indigenous educator who has previously managed both childcare centres and integrated service delivery organisations. Our team is committed to the development of our organisation, to support and empower the Lochart River community, in early year’s education, family support services and social emotional wellbeing.
The Puuya Foundation welcomed the appointment of an indigenous Director of the Kuunchi Kakana Centre in February 2022. Emma Schuh managed local operations at the Kuunchi Kakana Centre and was appointed as CEO in June 2023. Emma brings with her a Bachelor of Education and experience as a Manager of a remote indigenous childcare service and previously in management positions of integrated service delivery organisations. Emma lives in Lockhart River, overseeing operations and mentoring our growing team, supporting their training and development.
Sandra has a proven background in business management, finance and team leadership. With experience across private business, corporate enterprise and professional services, Sandra is a skilled business leader and general management professional. She has worked in senior management and leadership teams in various industries, including the legal sector, financial services, retail industry, health industry,
and shipping industry.
Sandra’s most recent experience managing the delivery of indigenous health services has driven her passion for leadership development and succession planning. Sandra’s business vision and strong leadership qualities are demonstrated by her proven track record of leading organisations to deliver tangible growth and success.
Sandra joined the team as the Executive Officer of the Puuya Foundation in March 2021. Sandra works closely to deliver the highest standards of corporate and financial governance for the organisation.
Matthew Rowe is a professional company secretary and experienced company director and has held senior leadership and financial positions in not-for-profits across Australia.
He is a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of South Australia and a solicitor of the High Court of Australia and the Supreme Court of Queensland, a nationally accredited mediator and Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner.
Matthew also has experience in administrative investigations and complaint resolution, private legal practice and court work, as well as speech writing, general litigation practice and the development and implementation of business administration, financial management and legislative compliance systems.
Our programs operate from the Kuunchi Kakana Centre, Lockhart River and are supported by a talented team of 7 indigenous staff. Our local staff have participated in the Puuya Foundation’s programs over the past 14 years, and now play key roles leading the delivery of support to families in Lockhart River and set the example of local capability building and empowerment.
The Puuya Foundation welcomed the appointment of an indigenous Director of the Kuunchi Kakana Centre in February 2022. Emma Schuh managed local operations at the Kuunchi Kakana Centre and was appointed as CEO in June 2023. Emma brings with her a Bachelor of Education and experience as a Manager of a remote indigenous childcare service and previously in management positions of integrated service delivery organisations. Emma lives in Lockhart River, overseeing operations and mentoring our growing team, supporting their training and development.
Sandra has a proven background in business management, finance and team leadership. With experience across private business, corporate enterprise and professional services, Sandra is a skilled business leader and general management professional. She has worked in senior management and leadership teams in various industries, including the legal sector, financial services, retail industry, health industry,
and shipping industry.
Sandra’s most recent experience managing the delivery of indigenous health services has driven her passion for leadership development and succession planning. Sandra’s business vision and strong leadership qualities are demonstrated by her proven track record of leading organisations to deliver tangible growth and success.
Sandra joined the team as the Executive Officer of the Puuya Foundation in March 2021. Sandra works closely to deliver the highest standards of corporate and financial governance for the organisation.
Matthew Rowe is a professional company secretary and experienced company director and has held senior leadership and financial positions in not-for-profits across Australia.
He is a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of South Australia and a solicitor of the High Court of Australia and the Supreme Court of Queensland, a nationally accredited mediator and Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner.
Matthew also has experience in administrative investigations and complaint resolution, private legal practice and court work, as well as speech writing, general litigation practice and the development and implementation of business administration, financial management and legislative compliance systems.
Our programs operate from the Kuunchi Kakana Centre, Lockhart River and are supported by a talented team of 7 indigenous staff. Our local staff have participated in the Puuya Foundation’s programs over the past 14 years, and now play key roles leading the delivery of support to families in Lockhart River and set the example of local capability building and empowerment.
The Puuya Foundation is grateful for ongoing support and learnings received from the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), Queensland Government, Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council, Montessori Children’s Foundation, PKF Financial Auditors, McCullough Robertson Lawyers, MinterEllison legal firm, Girls from Oz, Skytrans, Cape York Partnership and Cape York Institute, Thread Together.
The Puuya Foundation is grateful for ongoing support and learnings received from the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), Queensland Government, Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council, Montessori Children’s Foundation, PKF Financial Auditors, McCullough Robertson Lawyers, MinterEllison legal firm, Girls from Oz, Skytrans, Cape York Partnership and Cape York Institute, Thread Together.
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