Co-Chair

(she/her)

Barkindji/Paakantyi, Kullilli (Quilpie–Cherbourg)

Ada Peterson is a respected Aboriginal Elder and cultural connector for Hands Up Mallee, dedicated to strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities. She honours the wisdom and resilience of Elders, who have long shared knowledge, leadership, and guidance through challenging times.

Passionate about amplifying Aboriginal voices, celebrating culture, and breaking down systemic barriers, Ada supports community-led approaches that honour culture and inspire change—creating inclusive pathways where Aboriginal communities can thrive.

Co-Chair

(he/him)

Steve Parr is Mildura born and bred. A local singer, Steve has a love for the performing arts. He believes that everybody should be able to participate in artistic expression regardless of who they are or where they come from. He knows that communities and people that participate in the arts are healthier, more resilient and more inclusive and has leant on art and creative practice to express his queerness.

Steve is the president of the Mildura Eisteddfod Society and has been a manager in the local health sector for over fifteen years.

Deputy Chair

(he/him)

Bob has been a resident of Mildura since 2011 and has over forty years of teaching experience, specialising in the arts. He earned his tertiary qualifications in Visual Arts at the Australian National University in Canberra.

Bob understands the benefits of creativity in inspiring ambition and building confidence. He is a strong supporter of local theatre and the performing arts, including the Red Cliffs Players and Friends of Mildura Arts Centre. Additionally, Bob is a dedicated film buff and a committed member of the Mildura Film Society. Currently employed by the Mildura Specialist School, Bob’s extensive experience as a teacher of special needs students, combined with his recognition as a local artist, provides valuable and insightful perspectives to our Board.

Treasurer

(he/him)

Chris works in the horticultural management industry, following a successful career as an executive in local government. His professional background spans experience with commercial enterprise, state, local, and federal government with expertise in management, project delivery, and information and communications technology (ICT).

A trained keyboardist in younger days, he studied music theory and music history and literature nurturing his appreciation for the arts in all its forms.

Academically, Chris holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA), is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) along with other technical qualifications and is currently undertaking postgraduate studies in Law.

Chris serves as Treasurer of the Mildura Eisteddfod Society. His involvement has deepened his belief in the power of the arts to support mental health, foster inclusion, and break down barriers of isolation.

Secretary

(he/him)

Benedict Baraka is the President of the Mildura Congolese Association, a disability support worker, and a member of the Governance Group at HUM. Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, he spent 14 years in a Ugandan refugee camp before settling in Australia with his family in 2018.

Since then, he has volunteered with organisations including SMECC, Vision Australia, and Princes Court, earning a reputation for his leadership, warmth, and dedication to inclusion.

In his spare time, Benedict enjoys performing comedy. Benedict is pursuing his Bachelor Degree in Social Work at Latrobe University.

Director

(she/her)

Patsy Doolan is a Barkindji/Paakantyi woman with extensive experience in community work. A highly respected and accomplished artisan, Patsy specialises in weaving and jewellery making, with her cultural practice and connection to country deeply embedded in her art.

Patsy’s roles include involvement with the Local Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (LAECG), the Koori Courts, and Umalek Balit. She is Co-chair of Hands Up Mallee, and Chair of the Mildura Rural City Council’s Ngiwa Yarna Committee.

Patsy has dedicated herself to sharing knowledge and building connection and pride among First Nations people in the region. Through her practice, she demonstrates the power of art in fostering social change.

Director

(she/her)

Born in Broken Hill, Frith moved to Mildura in 2006 and has been working in the health industry for the last 25 years. This includes 20 years educating about diabetes to rural and remote communities across the far west of New South Wales. As well as being a small business operator in the tourism industry for 15 years, Frith is passionate about community and has been a member of Rotary for 30 years.

Director

(she/her)

Tracey is employed with Mallee Printers, writing for the North West Express and Times Ensign, where she researches, collates, and shares stories of local people, groups, and events.

Her professional background includes many years in hospitality, aged care, and education as an integration aide.

She is also a dedicated volunteer, serving as Secretary for Ouyen Inc and the Ouyen Lake Committee, and as a member of the Roxy Theatre Committee since 2013. Past involvement spans numerous community initiatives and events.

Tracey has grown into a respected community leader and advocate, committed to amplifying voices, building resilience, and celebrating the determination of regional volunteerism. Tracey is a proactive and proud Mallee women.

Director

(he/him)

Dylan Lawson is a proud Latji Latji, Barkinji, and Maraura man, born and raised in Mildura. He is well known throughout the community for his ongoing work with First Peoples of the Millewa-Mallee Aboriginal Corporation (FPMMAC), where he has been involved for over five years.

Previously employed through the River Ranger Program for 18 months, Dylan now serves as the Aboriginal Water Officer. In this role he manages a range of programs that support Traditional Owner aspirations in the water sector. This includes working closely with governance structures and Native Title holders to ensure our voices are heard and respected in decisions about land and water.

His work is grounded in cultural knowledge, community leadership, and a commitment to protecting Country for future generations.