Board Members

President

Gail Bennett, Manager Corporate Services, Wanneroo Secondary College

Gail brings over 35 years of leadership experience in local and international public, private, and not-for-profit organisations, including roles on boards, committees, and in primary, secondary, district high, and inclusive schools (both metropolitan and regional). She has also held positions in Central Office.

As a key developer of the Manager Corporate Services Feedback Survey and Manager Corporate Services Feedback Discussion Paper for the Director General, as well as a member of the WAMCSE Committee and WAMSCE/WACESSA representative on the MCS Classification Review Committee, Gail has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to our profession.

As President, Gail embodies WASBPA's purpose and is dedicated to championing the establishment of our new association, advocating on behalf of members and leading strategic initiatives for positive transformation and impactful change.

Vice President

Laura McCart, Manager Business Operations, School of Isolated and Distance Education

Over her 30-year career, Laura has facilitated positive links with the Department, advocating for the  needs of members and the future of public education. She believes in fostering a community  committed to continuous learning and improvement, empowering educators to make a meaningful  impact on the lives of students and has contributed to the advancement of education in schools. 

Laura values effective communication. She encourages and empowers allied professionals in  schools, providing them with connections and opportunities for professional growth. Laura thrives in  creating a spirit of fellowship and collaboration with colleagues. 

Vice President

Vice President: Fiona Wilson, Manager Corporate Services, Atwell College

Fiona brings more than 25 years of executive experience in association representation and diverse Manager Corporate Services roles.  Throughout her career, she has been a dedicated advocate for the growth and advancement of associations, significantly contributing to the expansion of membership, increase in event attendance and meeting of strategic goals.

With a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the MCS role, Fiona is committed to elevating the profile of the profession and continue engaging key stakeholders to ensure members receive the support and resources needed to thrive. 

As Vice President, Fiona looks forward to collaborating with members to advance the mission of WASBPA and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Secretary

Tracey Hughes, Manager Corporate Services, Ridge View Secondary College

Tracey brings over 30 years of diverse professional experience, including 18 years in public schools.  She has served as a WAMCSE committee member, including roles as Secretary, and recently as  Secretary of the interim amalgamation committee.  

As the foundation Manager Corporate Services at Ridge View Secondary College, Tracey has been  influential in building a strong culture, aligning with priorities, strategically developing the workforce,  and forming a Manager Corporate Services network in her region. 

Tracey is committed to supporting the objectives and purposes of WASBPA through collaboration with  all members. She is dedicated to enhancing the knowledge and status of the profession.

Treasurer

Amanda Sykes, Manager Corporate Services, Rivergums Primary School

Amanda is passionate about supporting her colleagues and fostering collaboration within the  organisation. She is committed to ensuring transparency, accuracy and efficiency in financial  operations. With a strong background in finance and a dedication to the profession, Amanda is eager  to contribute her expertise and work collaboratively to support WASBPA's goals and initiatives. 

Amanda brings extensive experience as Treasurer of WAECSSA, where she has successfully  managed budgets and ensures efficient financial processes. As the foundation Manager Corporate  Services for a new school, she has honed her skills in financial planning, resource allocation and  governance.

Board Member

Anne Gilchrist, Manager Corporate Services, Aveley Secondary College

Anne has dedicated 15 years of her career to working with the Department of Education, starting as  a School Officer and later transitioning into the role of Manager Corporate Services, where she has  served for ten years. During this time, she has been an active member of the WAMCSE committee  and has taken on the role of Sponsorship Coordinator for the past three years. Anne feels privileged  to have been a part of the committee and deeply involved in the running of conferences. 

Passionate about representing all Manager Corporate Services, Anne pledges to work diligently to  contribute to the success of the new association, leveraging her experience and dedication to make  a meaningful impact. 

Board Member

Daniel Joyce, Manager Corporate Services, Hammond Park Secondary College

Daniel’s practice is underpinned by the belief that corporate services staff are crucial to the functioning  of schools. He envisions a future where they are respected, visible, celebrated, recognised,  empowered, and have a voice both within schools and beyond.  

With experience in Central Office, primary, secondary and education support contexts, Daniel believes  in the power of hard work for successful change and is committed to establishing lifelong connections  with staff in the education system. 

Daniel brings his integrity, commitment, honesty and passion to the table of WASBPA. He aims to  initiate and continue conversations, commit to actionable steps, foster collaboration and promote  interaction with Central Services for the betterment of corporate services staff and the education  sector as a whole.

Board Member

Suzanne Rowley, Manager Business Operations, John Curtin College of the Arts

Suzanne brings a wealth of experience in education and association leadership. Throughout her  career, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering positive environments and advancing  educational initiatives.  

Suzanne has held various leadership roles, contributing to the development and implementation of  strategic plans that enhance the educational experience for students and support professional growth  for educators. She has been instrumental in building collaborative networks and partnerships that  drive innovation and excellence in education. 

Dedicated to supporting the objectives and purposes of WASBPA, Suzanne is committed to promoting  continuous learning, professional development and the advancement of public education.

Board Member

Michelle London, Manager Corporate Services, Maddington Education Support Centre

Michelle recognises the challenges experienced by staff faced with increasing responsibilities and the  need for additional support for new staff. She sees the merging of associations as a fresh opportunity  to reimagine and enhance support for staff and is keen to collaborate with like-minded members who  are also passionate about leading change. With her experience in education support and as a finance  consultant, Michelle brings valuable insights to the table. She is excited to contribute ideas around  professional development that will empower staff to thrive and feel supported in their roles.

Board Member

Sharon Hill, Manager Corporate Services, Brentwood Primary School

Sharon brings over 40 years of experience in leadership roles across diverse industries, including  travel and education. Her career has been built on the pillars of fairness, strategic achievement and  advocacy. With her experience on the WAMCSE committee and the interim amalgamation committee,  Sharon is well-equipped to support the establishment of that will foster professional learning, business  partnerships and network sharing 

Sharon is committed to driving the objectives of WASBPA and supporting its members in achieving  excellence in the school business professional area.

Board Member

Sonia Nelson, Manager Corporate Services, Pia Wadjarri Remote Community School

Sonia has been a long-term active committee member of WAECSSA and has achieved many personal  accomplishments that have provided opportunities to enhance and strengthen our profession. Her  dedication was honoured with a life membership, a testament to her commitment.  

Sonia brings the same enthusiasm to her role as a facilitator for the Midwest Manager Corporate  Services Network, where the spirit of fellowship and collaboration thrives, and learning opportunities  are actively sought. Her commitment to the WAECSSA and WAMSCE amalgamation process has  been absolute.  

Sonia is passionate about continuing her work as a WASBPA representative and looks forward to  contributing to the association's success.