Management Committee
As U3A Sunshine Coast President, I bring 40 years’ leadership experience as a Queensland school principal and teacher, plus CEO roles and community involvement. I’ve led large teams, managed budgets, and organised international events. My strong communication and interpersonal skills enable effective collaboration, goal achievement, and group development within volunteer organisations.
As U3A Sunshine Coast Vice President, I bring three years of service, including two years as Vice President of U3A Network Queensland. I’ve enhanced digital capabilities through website redesigns, eVoice email systems, IT support, and an online registration platform for the 2023 State Conference. Skilled in digital communication and strategic development, I aim to contribute more broadly to U3A’s growth and innovation as part of the Executive team.
With five years as a U3A member and experience as an office volunteer and Project Officer, I understand the organisation’s goals. My 25 years in finance at Queensland Treasury and ENERGEX, plus procurement governance expertise, equip me as Treasurer. I’m skilled in Microsoft tools and financial systems, with strong governance, process improvement, and administrative capabilities essential for effective financial management.
I moved to the Sunshine Coast in 2011 and joined U3A in 2016. My career spanned finance with major banks and American Express, focusing on international exchanges and quality control. I also managed Vodafone’s night operations in telecommunications and ran a hospitality business, gaining diverse leadership and operational experience.
With 12 years in U3A—since 2015 on the Sunshine Coast—I’ve served three years on the Management Committee and as Secretary in 2019. My career in administration at Director and Board levels gives me strong governance and regulatory expertise. As a Category One Not-for-Profit, our organisation demands sound administration, and I am committed to upholding best practices in governance and financial stewardship for the benefit of all members.
Retired from managing IT at KPMG Darwin, I’ve served as U3A Sunshine Coast’s System Administrator since 2015, leading the implementation and ongoing improvement of the MASS system. With a background in IT infrastructure and large event management, I’m committed to ensuring MASS remains efficient and user-friendly. I continue to volunteer locally and value contributing my technical expertise to support U3A’s operations and member experience.
With over 40 years in electronics—from mining industry x-ray systems to managing air traffic control technology and running a successful electronics business—I bring extensive technical expertise. I’ve maintained and installed complex systems and networks, and since joining U3A in 2018, I’ve continued applying my skills. As Equipment Officer, I’m committed to maintaining and enhancing U3A’s technical resources for the benefit of all members.
Helen moved from Canada to Australia in 1966 after studying accounting. She enjoyed a 25-year career in technology and retail management before retiring. A U3A member since 2024, she previously served as Administrative Tutor and now excels as Course and Tutor Coordinator, supporting tutors, managing course logistics, and assisting the Management Committee. Her role is essential in coordinating the diverse range of U3A courses.