I grew up in Herberton, (far north Queensland) working in the family tin mine. That’s where I got my strong work ethic, front-end loader license and experience of remote locations. My father was a mining engineer. My mother a psychologist. I’m fascinated by the ways in which individuals are affected by the systems around them.

I’ve worked for three levels of government and served a term as a politician. I’m on a not-for-profit Board. I’ve worked in Aboriginal communities. Travelled the world. I enjoy seeing things from different perspectives. I’m adventurous.

Walk a mile in somebody else’s shoes. That way, when they realise you’ve got their shoes, you’re a mile away……

Having a sense of humour is important, especially as I am not afraid to dig deep in the dark to get to the bottom of problems.

I’m also an artist, specialising in hand painting silk. I love colour. We can explore your creative potential. I’m a professional problem solver. I like to work out strategies to move people towards happiness.

Information is power. Understanding is freedom.

Testimonials

“Kate has a conscious and unwavering ability to see how systems work. One of Kate’s skills is her ability to read the community – not just from a bureaucratic perspective – to actually understand the needs of the community and be adaptive.”

Nick Ryan, CEO Support Centre Lutheran Services

“Kate challenged my thinking about an issue, where there were a couple of options. I felt that Kate was not only being overly cautious, but the option she was presenting was most likely the least popular for directors and members.  

I was wrong, and her ability to employ critical judgement guided our decision making to a place that made our organisation strategically and financially stronger in the longer term. 

Kate is quite astute in identifying and assessing risks. She challenges the status quo and if we don’t do that we’re not staying on top of issues.

Kate’s also adaptive, flexible and a creative thinker. She encourages those around her to explore a range of ideas and possible ways forward.”

Ellen Weber, Chair, Gulf Savannah Natural Resource Management 

“Kate quickly picks up new information and approaches and is able to use these tools to further local and wider objectives. She is respectful and able to form a positive bond with a wide range of people. One of her traits is, when faced with the unknown, she will work through the issue and gather information in order to make an informed decision and offer advice. Kate is an enthusiastic and talented person who will provide a positive overlay to any situation”

Des Harris, former Australian Government Director and Administrator, Tiwi Islands Regional Council.