Meet the Team

Dr Dean Blomson joined Aftercare in July 2012 as a Director and is now our Chairman. Dean is best known for providing strategic business advice, and has shown his passion for the sector through his work on mergers and acquisitions in the not-for-profit sector, as well as other areas of business. Dean has facilitated strategic planning in the not-for-profit sector and has contributed to strategic planning for various organisations through his understanding of this area.

In his day job, he is a partner with Helmsman International, a specialist strategic advisory firm dealing with complex capital assets and project commitments.

Dean has a Bachelor of Business Science (Hons.), LLB and a Higher Diploma in Company Law. He completed his PhD in 2015 which researched Board governance aspects of Mergers and Acquisitions. He has presented papers to a number of high level conferences and is quoted extensively in various magazines and publications, drawing on his significant experience in the areas of growth strategies, organic growth and corporate governance.

Steve has been a director on the Aftercare Board since July 2012 and is our honorary Treasurer. Steve has a finance background with extensive experience across Australia, Pan-Asia and the US. Since joining Aftercare, Steve has involved himself in the organisation’s operations by sitting on the Finance, Audit and Risk Subcommittee, where he brings attention to detail to Aftercare’s accounting, risk and financial matters.

Steve is passionate about mental health services and in addition to sitting on the Board of Aftercare, Steve is also actively involved the St. Vincent De Paul Society, he is a member of the Marrickville Council Multifaith Roundtable Inc., sits on the UTS Human Research Ethics Committee and holds other voluntary roles in smaller charities.

Previously, Steve was also an honorary Treasurer and a Director on the Board of the Mental Health Association of NSW and a Director of Minimbah Challenge Inc. for people with severe intellectual disabilities and complex support needs, as well as a member of  US CPA, as a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).

Rod has spent many years as an ex officio member of the Board and has been an Aftercare Board member since 1998. More recently Rod has become a full Board member.

As well as having a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology (Honours), Rod is a registered Psychologist, has a NSW Teacher’s Certificate and is an Associate Member of the American Psychological Association. With nearly 30 years’ experience working with intellectually disabled clients in the area of behavioural programming and differential diagnosis, he has provided diagnostic services to refugee clients with suspected intellectual disability/psychiatric illness and worked with homeless persons who might have been previously undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

Rod has studied anthropology, ethnography and the culture of Aboriginal Australians, and has a deep understanding of cultural issues and considerations. He is passionate about the work of the non-Government sector to ensure that appropriate support services are available to people experiencing mental illness, particularly those with an intellectual disability.

Leanne joined the Aftercare Board in November 2014 with over 25 years’ experience in Executive and Senior Management roles in the financial services sector, she has an extensive background in strategic marketing, change management and people leadership.

Leanne is one of the founding members of ‘Financial Executive Women’ where she uses her experience and connections to assist women to reach their career potential. She has a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics and Marketing), Post Graduate Diploma in Management (Marketing) and GAICD. Leanne has a strong interest in financial literacy having participated in the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) member advice engagement committee, Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), Financial Literacy Community of Practice and has led forums to address underinsurance in Australia.

John joined the Aftercare Board in November 2014. He has been involved in banking, finance and funds management activities for 39 years and has experience working with ANZ, State Building Society (now part of St George), Esso Employees Credit Union, The Howard Group, Challenger International and Mariner Financial. John was an industry adviser on mortgage trusts to both the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) and the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) as well as Chairman of the (then) Investment and Financial Services Association (IFSA) mortgage trust working group from 2005- 2010. From 1987-2003 John managed the Challenger Howard Mortgage Trust and grew its assets to $2.6 billion to be the largest in Australia.

In August 2010, John set up “JT Consultancy” to predominately advise fund managers in the mortgage and property trust space. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Financial Services and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

John is a non-executive director on a number of boards, he is involved with several benevolent institutions advising on matters of finance and property and he is a former honorary Treasurer of the National Council of Churches in Australia.

Marianne joined Aftercare in November 2014 and is an experienced director, chief operating officer and company secretary, with expertise in developing client services and streamlining delivery of products and services within the information technology, telecommunications and not-for-profit industry.

Marianne has financial and operational experience in medium to large industry service organisations and smaller start-up companies, creating strategies and processes that enhance client services and improve delivery and lower costs, and has established well-organised, productive business units.

With experience in mergers, acquisitions, selling of businesses and policies with accountabilities to the CEO and board of directors, Marianne brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the areas of finance, operations, governance and risk management.

Shane joined the Aftercare board in November 2014 and is a senior executive with an extensive background in management and service delivery across Government, health and community agencies. With over 30 years’ experience, Shane has worked with both the Government and private sector to develop new initiatives and realise business efficiencies.

Shane has worked with KPMG as a senior health and human services consultant and has held senior policy and planning positions in NSW Health and NSW Family and Community Services. He has a detailed understanding of public health costing and contestability processes, health information, as well as pricing and funding methods to achieve key policy objectives.

Shane has a mental health background, with a Graduate and a Master’s Degree in social work, and previous experience working as a mental health social worker. Throughout his career Shane has had strong commitment to community based mental health care. Shane’s relationship with Aftercare extends back to 1981.

CEO of Aftercare, John Malone is a leading voice in mental health and disability in Australia. With a Master of Science from UNSW, John has worked for over 30 years as a registered Psychologist, and has a passionate commitment to research. John partners with many organisations in a variety of arrangements including consortiums, shared services and joint ventures, as well as collaborating with academics and leading medical practitioners.

Among his accomplishments, John serves as an Executive Board Member of the Mental Health Coordinating Council, a Member of the Australian Psychological Society, a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, a Research Fellow at the University of Wollongong, and a Research Associate of Macquarie and Western Sydney Universities.

About me: I am passionate about community understanding of mental health issues and I approach my work from the perspective of the similarity between people rather than difference.

Of most interest is the unknown and untapped potential of thousands of Australians who have a mental illness and who are without the support necessary to assist them on their recovery journey.

I believe Australia has a very long way to go before realising the community need for targeted mental health resources. Only then can the potential for all Australians be realised.

Ivan has occupied Government and non-Government leadership positions in mental health over a 25 year period. He has led some of the major reforms that have occurred in mental health in Queensland over this period in the areas of mental health promotion, prevention and early intervention; public sector inpatient and community services; and the non-Government mental health sector. Ivan also led and co-led the development of two major policy positions in Queensland including the Queensland Mental Health Plan and the Supporting Recovery – Community Mental Health Plan. At the program level Ivan has led the development of the Queensland Transcultural Mental Health Centre, the Health and Homelessness Outreach Teams, the Integrated Employment Specialists Program, the Evolve Teams for young people in the care of the State, a range of alternatives to acute admission, and through the non-Government sector a range of step-up and step-down programs, consumer operated services, and community based support options. Since joining Aftercare in 2012 Ivan has led the development of a range of innovative community responses to people with mental illness including Youth Residential Rehabilitation Units; headspace Centres and Youth Early Psychosis Services, and cross-agency and cross-sector initiatives such as Partners in Recovery and the Floresco Centre in West Moreton.

About me: I reside in beautiful Brisbane on acreage with my wife and four children. I thoroughly enjoy the company of my family, relatives and friends. I migrated to Australia from Croatia with my mother and father in 1969 at the age of eight years and I still enjoy my Croatian cultural heritage particularly music, dancing, traditional cuisine and the odd Sljivovica or three. I’ve had a long standing interest in playing and coaching football (soccer) and Croatian Folkloric Dancing.

Kerri has worked across both Corporate and not-for-profit sectors for over 20 years with a diverse background in Operations and HR.

Kerri holds a Bachelor of Business (Human Resources Major) from Southern Cross University, Lismore and is currently completing a Masters in Social Work (Professional Qualifying) through Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga.

Kerri’s areas of expertise include Employee Engagement, Change Management, Strategic Planning and Industrial Relations.

About me: I am passionate about helping people to achieve their personal and professional goals and develop valuable relationships.

As a keen hockey player and umpire, I have focused my passion for developing others through coaching hockey teams, sporting administration, training junior umpires and mentoring managers in the workplace.

Caroline has over 20 years of experience and particular expertise in leading complex change and transformation projects. This includes sector and organisation transformational change, developing ‘greenfield’ companies, driving organisational realignments, facilitating mergers and acquisitions, introducing corporate and shared services, and affecting business closures.

Caroline has previously held Board positions with the Australian Marketing Institute and Save the Children Fund. With qualifications such as a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Masters of Business Administration with majors in Marketing and HR, she is also currently adding to her achievements by studying a Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Stanford University in U.S.A.

About me: I am genuinely passionate about contributing to the transformation of the Human Services sector, particularly in the areas of strategy, growth, client management, service model realignment, workforce development and transition, and asset management.

Emma joined Aftercare in 2009 and is a former nurse who worked in the hospital environment for seven years in Russia and in the aged care and medical centres environment in Australia. After four years, Emma decided to change her career and become an Accountant. With a Masters in Business (Professional Accounting) from the University of New England, she moved into a financial role in the legal industry and, after 7 years, subsequently returned to the health industry as a finance professional.

About me: My curiosity exposes me to a wide spectrum of interests from the global economy and business practices to art, history, literature and languages. I am a passionate traveller and observer of countries and cultures. I’m always happy to socialise, meet new people from all walks of life, exchange ideas and experiences and just have a good time! In order to keep myself healthy I enjoy long walks and yoga. As I was born and raised in northern Russia, I prefer winter sports, such as skiing, ice-skating and ice-hockey.

Jason joined the Aftercare team in September 2015 and brings with him over 13 years of industry experience within the Information Technology sector. Jason has a broad background across both national and multi-national organisations and experience in Financial, Manufacturing, Logistics, Retail and Medical industries. Jason carries a Masters degree in Information Technology from the University of Newcastle and has a passion for innovation and technology. Jason has a strong belief in Aftercare and the great work it does throughout our communities and hopes that through innovation and technology we can expand our reach and continue to deliver value-added services to those that need it the most.

About me: I’m a proud father of one and blessed by my supportive wife, family and friends. I have close ties to several charity organisations and volunteer my time and/or resources to support our communities whenever an opportunity arises. I enjoy the great outdoors and am very proud to be a part of a wonderful nation that supports multiculturalism and equal opportunity.

Dr Alex Wilde joined Aftercare in September 2015 from the University of New South Wales. She has been a research scientist in mental health research since 2005. Her PhD was on psychosocial implications of risk information about affective and psychotic disorders. Post-doctorally, Alex has developed an online depression intervention for young adults with a family history of major depressive disorder. Based on the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy, the programme, tailored to individual risk factors, aimed to help young people build resilience and improve well-being. Alex has published her work in peer-reviewed medical journals and presented at scientific conferences nationally and internationally. Previously, Alex was a professional science and medical writer and published articles in the mainstream media and medical press. She is a member of the Australian and New Zealand Mental Health Advisory Board and a conjoint senior lecturer at the University of New South Wales.

About me: I am interested in helping to change the lives of people who experience or are at risk for a mental illness. Support in the community for mental ill health is vital for recovery. I am interested in using evidence from research to build better mental health support systems, programmes and services. I am also particularly interested in youth mental health and understanding how research can help prevent and reduce the risk of affective disorders at crucial stages of brain development.

Sylvia has extensive experience in the non-Government mental health sector in New South Wales and Victoria. Along with her Bachelor of Social Work and a Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment, Sylvia is also a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Sylvia has worked for over 18 years in direct service delivery, program development, management, and training. Along with a dedicated team, Sylvia is very committed to achieving high quality services for people experiencing mental illness.

About me: I am particularly interested in social inclusion and the rights of people who experience mental illness and I am passionate about consumer oriented models of recovery that are co-designed by service users.

My commitment is to provide high quality services that are socially inclusive and recovery focused that support consumers to realise their potential, and live full and productive lives.

With a diverse background from marketing and design to working for a local member of parliament, Stephanie has now worked in the mental health community managed sector since 2003. She was an employee of the Mental Health Coordinating Council for over ten years in policy development, project management and partnerships. She has a First Class Honours in Sociology, and has a qualification in training and assessment. She brings to Aftercare a flexible range of skills drawing on her background and a passion for communication and community development.

About me: The arts are an important part of my life whether it be creating or simply appreciating artworks. I also enjoy meeting new people and love to travel and immerse myself in other cultures. Working for Aftercare has provided me with wonderful variety in my job, a great work culture and the opportunity to meet many interesting people working across the social sector.

Jennifer started her mental health and disability career journey with Aftercare ten years ago as a student. She has worked and studied her way through different positions within the organisation such as Support Worker, Team Leader, Coordinator and now oversees all the Residential Services in New South Wales as a Regional Manager.

Jennifer has been successful in obtaining her Social Work degree at UNSW, a Diploma in Community Services and an Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management. Since joining Aftercare she has been instrumental in the submission of tenders, obtaining funds for two transitional accommodation programs and a 24 hour Residential Group Home. Jennifer leads the Aftercare Restrictive Practices Panel and strives to continue to successfully gain more funding for the organisation.

About me: My first involvement with mental health was as a teenager, losing a close friend to suicide. This inspired me to help people get the most from life whatever that might look like for them!

I have a passion for mental health and most especially residential services which has driven me to advocate for individuals and promote person-centered care and support teams on the ground to deliver quality services with the best possible outcomes for clients.

Between wrangling three young children and a busy home life of sports, I enjoy a day to myself to unwind, listen to music and practice mindfulness!

Kate is a leader for the teams in Western Sydney and beyond. She has an Advanced Diploma in Community Services Management, and a Certificate IV in Mental Health. Kate has worked for Aftercare since 2009 in a variety of roles, including Team Leader of Aftercare Clients’ Service of Choice 2011.

About me: I live and work in that great big green area west of Sydney and I am passionate about trees, books and small furry animals, all of which are first-rate tonics for mental health!

Joanne’s passion for community services was ignited when a decision was made by her parents and siblings to become a foster family for children needing crisis care. After two decades of being involved as a foster family, Joanne’s passion to give back to the community became a drive she could not ignore. At a mature age Joanne decided to take on further study in Social Science, Community Welfare and Disability and entered into the world of Aftercare as a student. Joanne has now been in the community services industry for over 20 years,  and aftercare progressing in her role at Aftercare she is now a New South Wales Regional Manager.

Joanne began her community services career in disability, infused it with mental health and developed a passion for supporting individuals, families and carers on their life journey.

About me: I consider myself friendly, approachable and a down to earth person that is always ready to lend a helping hand. I possess the uncanny ability to establish rapport with people quickly and I’m enthusiastic about life. Whilst I’m professional and well in tune with Aftercare’s values, I like to have a good time and enjoy life to the fullest. Find me with a big smile, always ready for a good laugh! I believe that life is about taking chances, making a difference, trying new things, having fun, making mistakes and learning from them.

Amelia has over seventeen years’ experience working with young people and their families, gained from working in a variety of generalist and specialist youth services, including Child and Youth Mental Health Services, youth dual diagnosis, and alcohol and other drug services. With a Masters in Social Administration, she has held National, State and Territory roles in youth mental health and brings this experience to her work overseeing and supporting the delivery of Aftercare’s headspace services.

About me: I am particularly interested in facilitating children and young people’s healing from traumatic experiences.

I am passionate about giving young people the best possible chance of living a life with purpose and making the most of their unique skills, strengths, interests and experiences.

I have a strong commitment to innovative service models that offer ‘’out of the box’’, fun and engaging services and better outcomes for young people.

Myfanwy is responsible for the operational management and leadership of Queensland residential services (two Youth Residential Rehabilitation Units in Brisbane and Cairns, and the Mackay Transitional Recovery Service). She holds a Bachelor of Social Work, a Master of Social Work from James Cook University, and a Graduate Diploma in Family-Centred Practice from Monash University. Myfanwy previously worked for 15 years in mental health services, in both clinical and management capacities within inpatient and community services across Queensland. Myfanwy is an accredited member of the Australian Association of Social Workers, and a member of the Australia and New Zealand Academy for Eating Disorders.

About me: I have always had a passion for, and interest in mental health, particularly child and adolescent mental health. I am a strong advocate for early prevention and intervention, and firmly believe that given the appropriate supports, young people can and do overcome mental health difficulties to lead vibrant and successful lives. I also believe in harnessing the power of families, friends and communities to support a young person’s growth and development. My own lived experience of mental ill-health is a driving force in my passion for the work I do.

Toni has worked in the community sector for over 20 years in various areas including youth, housing, women’s and mental health services. She has completed a Master of Social Work and has been committed to working within the mental health community sector for the past ten years in both support and leadership roles.

About me: I am dedicated to supporting those affected by mental health issues in their recovery journey. What I have found most inspiring and rewarding in my chosen field is the benefits that can be gained when there is increased opportunity for connecting to community and breaking down social isolation. This can range from being able to ‘get out the door’ of their home through to making lifestyle improvements, engaging in employment and/or meaningful activities. In my role, I am privileged to connect with a lot people, reduce loneliness and stigma that is so often associated with mental illness.

With a management background in retail, HR and hospitality, Peter has worked in the community sector for the past 30 years with a focus on social justice and community resilience. His qualifications include a Bachelor in Theology and Post Graduate Counselling accreditation, and they have assisted a great deal in his long-standing experience in community engagement, leadership training, hospital and school chaplaincy.

About me: I have a variety of tastes and interests including indigenous art, photography, food and music. I am passionate about mental health and wellbeing, and it is a privilege to be part of the Aftercare family.

Over the past 18 years, Craig has worked in various government and community roles within the mental health sector, including roles within public and private clinical settings. He has led and assisted in the development and implementation of a range of community-managed mental health programs across Queensland, including projects focusing on consumer participation and leadership. Over the past five years, Craig has worked in senior management roles in the community managed mental health sector. Currently, Craig is Vice President for the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health Inc. – the peak body representing the Mental Health Community Managed sector in Queensland. As Regional Manager for Aftercare, Craig brings a strong history of establishing effective partnerships and collaboration on a range of community based programs and projects.

About me: I have a firm vision and passion around the importance of the Community Managed Mental Health sector and its role in supporting people with mental health issues in their recovery. I would like to see the sector continue to grow and play a more influential role in keeping people with mental health issues living in their own homes and in their local communities rather than having to access hospital services on a regular basis.

I enjoy swimming, jogging, beach volley ball and playing the odd game of football (soccer), league or touch footy with family and/or friends.

Geoff has been employed in the mental health sector for the past 12 years having previously worked as a counsellor with Mission Australia and The Salvation Army, prior to joining Aftercare.

The introduction of the PHaMs service into Queensland in 2009 provided Geoff with an opportunity to join Aftercare as Team Leader of the Inner-Brisbane South office which he held for two years before moving into the Peer Support Coordinator’s role for 12 months.

For the past three years Geoff has occupied the position of Queensland Regional Manager, looking after the Queensland PHaMs teams as well as the new Community Managed Mental Health Service in south west Queensland.

About me: I have two married daughters and four grandchildren and over the past ten years have actively participated in various volunteer activities in my local community, especially through The Salvation Army Church.

These volunteer roles include aspects of Christian Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care, Prison Ministry as well as Crisis Telephone Counselling through the Salvation Army ‘Care Line’.

I also have interests in delivering mental health training through ASIST, Mental Health First Aid and Life Coaching.