History & STAR Today

Prior to stepping us as the Chairperson, Pam has served on STAR’s board for a number of years in different positions most recently as Secretary. Pam has extensive experience in aged care including as a Director of Nursing, Residential Care Manager for ACQ- now LASA-Q.

Peter has various university qualifications. He is also a former CPA Member. With extensive experience in the Australian Not-For-Profit sector, Peter was also General Manager at STAR for 7 years. He is Chair of the Finance, Risk & Audit Committee.

LLB (UQ) 1976, Solicitor – Qld S/Ct & H/Ct Aust 1977 Property lawyer with 42 years in practice. Head of McCarthy Durie Lawyers Commercial and Estates team. Member of Queensland Law Society.

Danielle is the former Director of CODI and board member of disability groups in Ipswich. She has over 10 years of involvement in disability organisations and funded community transport. Holds position on Strategic Planning and Governance Sub-Committee.

Rob served as STAR’s Chairperson from 2004 till 2022. He is also board Member of TDSA, Past Zone Chair of National Seniors, member of Policy Group. Current Convenor of Redlands Disability Network. He holds positions on STAR’s Board SubCommittees - Finance, Risk & Audit and Strategic Planning & Governance.

Colin is the Current Chairman of Mangrove Housing (Disability) and Chair of the Strategic Planning and Governance Committee.

Thomas brings a wealth of knowledge in areas of strategic information technology management and business solutions delivery. He has a keen understanding of the non-profit sector and is keen to drive change by fostering innovation.

With an extensive background in Financial Services and business coaching, Ken offers more than 35 years in the Financial Planning Industry including roles as General Manager and Sales Manager for leading Australian Financial Services companies. He is also a Board Member of Redland Foundation Ltd.

Patsy’s roots are embedded in the community with 6 living generations in the Redlands. She commenced with STAR in 2013 and in 2021 she has taken on the role of CEO. Patsy has a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA), she has industry knowledge and she ensures the organisation is fulfilling it’s obligations of valued services to vulnerable people while in line with the four goals of people, services, safety and environment. For Patsy, the vision of STAR is kept at the forefront of planning while the mission of STAR is a constant reminder of what STAR is all about. As the CEO, Patsy is responsible for upholding corporate governance, controlling risk, promoting culture and integrity and leading a sustainable performance for the long term. Vision: To be known in the communities that we service for dependable client focused services that are flexible, diverse, sustainable, and innovative. Mission: Delivering services that value people's unique skills, experiences and contributions, breaking down barriers to social and community inclusion.

Melissa has a passion for her work in the Human Services sector of 30 years including disability, mental health, aged care and community services sectors, with a special interest in creating opportunities for genuine inclusion and human connection. Melissa started her career as a residential care worker and her roots are firmly based in the philosophy of Social Role Valorisation that promotes that all people have valued social roles and challenges the negative labels society applies to marginalised and vulnerable groups in our community. Melissa has over 20 years’ experience in managing high quality, client focused services in both government and non-government organisations and over the past 5 years, Melissa has overseen the expansion of STAR Direct Support Services as well as graduating university with a double degree in Counselling and Coaching. Melissa has recently been appointed to the new role of Chief Operations Officer for STAR and is proud to be working with a very diverse, client focused and passionate team.

Nectaria has more than 17 years of experience in Aged Care, with qualifications in Business and HR. As STAR Business Services Manager, Nectaria plays a central leadership role in managing and developing STAR's business and operational support capability and functions. Nectaria's responsibilities include IT, Communications, Administrative support, Human Resource Management & Quality Assurance; ensuring excellent standards of operational and business support delivery to the organisation. Working in partnership with all staff members, Nectaria ensures office functionality, recruitment and training to provide strong accountable leadership and clearly articulate STAR’s values and standards. She is also the chairperson of Volunteering Redlands, STAR's volunteering arm, that acts as a hub for all volunteering activities in Redlands.

Bettina Brookes joined STAR in Aug 2023. She brings a diverse background of experience across health, community and aged care settings in quality, compliance, education, and change management. Bettina leads STAR’s quality and compliance program. “I like to be part of a team that seeks to make a positive difference in people’s lives. None of us are islands, it takes a team to succeed. There is so much need in our communities for care and services that enable people to live more independently and for longer at home.” If you have any feedback, comments or complaints about STAR services, please contact Bettina on 3821 6699 or email BBrookes@starct.org.au

Tracy oversees STAR’s internal IT systems and procedures along with the Contact Centre Team of volunteers –who are the first point of call for all client enquiries. "The dedication that our team of volunteers demonstrate is inspiring. They face new and challenging calls each day, always with an aim to help the person calling."

Vic is a results-driven Fleet Manager with over 10 years of experience in optimising and overseeing company passenger fleets. With Diplomas in Logistics, Fleet Management, and Business Management, Vic is dedicated to delivering safe, reliable fleets that support both drivers and the broader community. He is also an experienced senior manager, known for recruiting and mentoring staff, analysing industry trends, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive growth and improvement. Vic specialises in managing fleet operations, ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. Vic has vast experience working in state government and running his own business demonstrating a passion for providing essential services to disadvantaged communities. "I pride myself on providing a safe and reliable fleet so that we can offer a positive service for our clients and the community."

Catherine joined the team at STAR to commence its fundraising and sponsorship journey to support its vital programs that fight against social isolation. Catherine has over 20 years of experience working in fundraising and gaining sponsorship in the education and health sectors. She has a Master of Business – Philanthropy and Not-for-Profit (with Distinction) from QUT, is a Certified Fund Raising Executive and is a long standing member of the Fundraising Institute of Australia. Catherine is passionate about fundraising code of conduct standards and ensuring that best practice is always maintained. STAR has seen a great response to grant applications that support our clients; the establishment of ‘Become a Secret Santa’ appeal that gives Christmas hampers to seniors who are on their own at Christmas; and the ‘Connection Fund’ that supports vulnerable seniors in financial difficulty gain the services they need, through Catherine’s initiatives and drive.

Neha holds an MBA in Marketing from University of Technology Sydney and a Certificate in Digital Marketing form ADMA, with over 15 years of diverse marketing experience across sectors such as banking, insurance, and government. Over the past eight years, Neha has been working at STAR starting as a volunteer. Passionate about purpose-driven marketing and specialising in PR and communication, Neha is committed to creating impactful campaigns that drive meaningful engagement and lasting impact in the local community.