Nicky is the CEO of Community Industry Group, with extensive experience in community services, local government, marketing, tertiary education, finance, and small business ownership. In addition to her busy role, she serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director of aged care provider, Warrigal, is Deputy Chair of Regional Development Australia Illawarra Shoalhaven, and Chair of the Board of Wollongong Conservatorium of Music. Nicky holds degrees in Dementia Care, Community and Environment, Marketing, and Project Management, is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and an Honorary Fellow of the University of Wollongong.

Ed is committed to driving quality service delivery and change management for positive outcomes across communities. He has held operational, project, training, and management roles at regional, state, and national levels, delivering innovative support services for people with disability and young people in care. Ed actively supports his community as President of the Illawarra Bicycle Users Group and advocates for liveable communities. A skilled communicator, he regularly contributes opinion pieces to the Illawarra Mercury on active transport. Passionate about systemic reform, Ed champions initiatives that strengthen communities and improve support outcomes.

Tanya is a Project & Policy Officer and currently coordinates the STARS Volunteer Program, which supports older people blocked in hospital to access aged care services. She has extensive experience in workforce development, with a background in retail, telecommunications, local government, mental health, aged care, and the tertiary sector. Tanya holds a degree in Adult Education and Human Resources Management from UTS and a Master’s Degree in Strategic Organisational Development from UNE. She is also an active community member, serving as secretary of her local community garden and supporting the local men’s shed.

Renee is a Project and Policy Officer, providing whole of sector support. With extensive experience in local government, Renee is a dedicated community development professional specialising in community safety, program delivery. Working across the whole of community, Renee has experience in case management and working with vulnerable communities, and excels at capacity building and developing strong networks and partnerships. Nearing completion of a Diploma of Community Services, Renee brings a versatile skill set and a strong commitment to enhancing community wellbeing.

Mark Sewell is a seasoned leader in the aged care and community services sector. He is a Director of Ageing Australia, Wesley Mission, and Grand Pacific Health, bringing extensive governance and strategic expertise to these roles. Mark previously served as CEO of Warrigal and has held leadership positions as Regional Councillor at Business Illawarra and Chair of the Lighthouse and Cedars boards. His wealth of experience supports his commitment to driving positive outcomes in aged care and community services.

With a strong background in administration, project coordination, and customer service, Jessica brings organisation, attention to detail, and a hands-on approach to supporting workforce development in the aged care sector. Jessica is passionate about helping to build a skilled, supported, and valued Aged Care workforce, one that meets the needs of our communities now and into the future.

Tina has extensive financial, administration and community work experience in the community services sector, within the Illawarra area. She has Advanced Certificates in Accounting, Community Services, Counselling and Financial Counselling. Tina’s diverse exposure to the sector has made her highly adaptable and knowledgeable, enabling her to approach financial management with a deep understanding of the unique challenges and needs within the community services sector. 

Melissa brings a background in financial services, retail, small business, and office management, offering a well-rounded skill set to our organisation. Melissa manages our Homelessness Health Program, Membership and Event bookings, handling multiple responsibilities with professionalism and efficiency, making her an indispensable part of our team, contributing significantly to our mission and overall success. As the events planner for our Community Service Awards, Melissa also ensures each event is a success.