Passionate about Starlight
Starlight's National Board of Directors consists of independent Non-Executive Directors and one Executive Director.
Our National Board of Directors brings a wide range of business, not-for-profit and commercial skills to Starlight. Its key role is to provide governance to ensure Starlight is true to its mission of ‘brightening the lives of seriously ill children and young people.’
In doing so, the Board oversees the strategic direction of the organisation with a focus on all governance issues and associated business functions (regulatory, financial, legal, audit and risk).
Our Board ensures Starlight’s programs are delivered as effectively and efficiently as possible and Starlight is a strong custodian of the donated dollar.
The Board's first responsibility is towards the safety and wellbeing of Starlight children, young people and the safety and wellbeing of our Starlight team, including all paid and volunteer team members.
Starlight has two Board sub-committees, the Audit & Risk Committee chaired by Courtenay Smith and the Remuneration and Nominations Committee chaired by Lucinda Gemmel, to advise the National Board on specific areas.
We also have State Advisory Boards (in NSW, QLD, SA, VIC and WA) to assist and promote Starlight, contributing knowledge and expertise, and support Starlight in raising funds in line with Starlight's Strategic Plan.
In 2020 Starlight established a Health Professionals Advisory Board to contribute specialist knowledge to support us to in our Mission and Vision.
The Health Professional Advisory Board advises Starlight on evolving opportunities and challenges around children’s health care; provides guidance and feedback on program strategies, plans and policies; and facilitates introductions and support relationships to assist program delivery and expansion.
National Board
Murray Coleman OAM Chair/Non-Executive Director
After 2 years on the NSW Advisory Board, Murray joined the National Board in 2014, and later became Chair in 2016
Louise Baxter CEO/Executive Director
Louise has over 17 years experience with Starlight and has been leading the way as Chief Executive since June 2009
Katrina Rathie Non-Executive Director
Having 12 years experience with Starlight, Katrina has been a Starlight Board member since 2011
Professor Tracey O'Brien Non-Executive Director
Professor Tracey O'Brien is a passionate physician and respected leader in paediatric cancer care and research
Courtenay Smith Non-Executive Director
Bringing with her over 25 years' experience as a finance professional, Courtenay joined the Starlight Board in 2019
Lucinda Gemmell Non-Executive Director
Lucinda joined the Board in 2019 and brings more than 20 years of progressive HR & commercial leadership experience
Frank Tracey Non-Executive Director
Frank brings over 30 years experience working in the health sector
Tanya Denning-Orman. Non-Executive Director
Tanya led National Indigenous Television since 2012 and has 20 years experience in media as a journalist and producer.
Helen Fazzino Non-Executive Director
After 6 years as President of VIC Advisory Board & Member since 2015, Helen joined the National Board in 2024.
Tanya Gilerman Non-Executive Director
Tanya joined the Board in 2024 with significant leadership and experience as an Audit & Risk management professional.
Drew Pearson Non-Executive Director
Drew joined the Board in 2024 and brings over 20 years of experience from the legal industry.
Luminaries and patrons
Thank you to our Starlight luminaries Neil Perry AM and Kieren Perkins OAM. As enthusiastic Starlight supporters, they are driven to share their skills, contacts and celebrity to help Starlight make a greater impact on the lives of seriously ill children and their families.
Our thanks to Starlight patron John Newcombe AO OBE, a past Board member and has played a key role in helping Starlight grow into the organisation it is today.
