Carlene Williams – Chairperson

Carlene has always been interested in art throughout her life, and has been a member of the Bunbury Patchwork and Quilting Group for over 20 years. She studied art at Teachers College which she then passed on to her students throughout a long career in the teaching sector, becoming a lecturer and consultant in the later years. During her time at Stirling Street Arts Centre she has gained NFP management experience as a Board member as well as Co-ordinated the Cuppa for Cancer and International Quilt Challenge for a number of years. Other work in the South West community includes her continued support at Zonta and Probus. In recognition of her strong volunteering ethic, Carlene was recently nominated for Volunteer of the Year announced at the City of Bunbury Australia Day Ceremony 2020.

Helena Sahm – Vice-Chairperson

Helena Sahm holds a double degree in fine arts practice and art education from University of NSW College of Fine Arts and has 50 years’ experience in arts related employment and activities.  An art educator at secondary and tertiary levels as Head of Department; Arts management including Bunbury Regional Art Gallery and Inaugural executive manager of Art Geo; Board member on Peak regional arts bodies including Art on the Move, the artist residency program International Art Space and locally on City of Bunbury Art Collection Committee. Helena has over 5 years working in arts and culture within local government.  She has always maintained an arts practice and has now returned to full time art making.

Rakshita Vishwakarma – Secretary

Rakshita has always enjoyed creativity. She studied visual arts at TAFE to develop an understanding of creative thinking in industry as well as explore printmaking, design, ceramics, textiles, drawing, sculpture and painting. Beginning as a hobby, Rakshita has taught performing arts and also enjoys photography. She is passionate to volunteer and work for the local community and organisations with creativity at their heart.

Graeme Lush – Treasurer

Originally from Melbourne, Graeme has been a Chartered Accountant (FCA) for many years and is now in practice here since moving to Bunbury in 2012. A passionate follower of arts and culture in all forms, he has supported National Gallery Vic., Melbourne Theatre Co., Melbourne International Arts Festival, Malthouse Theatre, Red Stitch Theatre, Bell Shakespeare, Heide Museum of Art. As a committed community member, Graeme has also served on the management board of BRAG and in 2015 agreed to act as manager of SSAC for a “short” period (4 years). Of many experiences during that time his most satisfying involvement has been the Centre re-development, which is now a reality, and will enhance Bunbury’s reputation as the arts and cultural centre of this region.

Jenny Scott

Jacki Hooper

Jacki has spent the last 20 years of her career working on Projects across mining and energy industries in the South West.  A Project Controls Manager for Synergy, she brings experience in governance, finance and planning to the board along with her passion for diversity and inclusion and ensuring arts and crafts are passed on through the generations.

Jacki is currently the chairperson for the Bunbury Studio Potters (BSP) at SSAC, and is working with BSP members and the board to improve the studio space for the community as well as sharing her love of clay and ceramics with BSP members and the wider community in workshops held at the centre.

Rochelle Lennox McGirr