Passionate about Starlight
Starlight's National Board of Directors consists of independent Non-Executive Directors and one Executive Director.
Our National Board of Directors, chaired by Courtenay Smith 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 Tanya Gilerman 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.
This year Starlight has also established a Digital & Data Advisory Board to bringing together the best and brightest in the industry to encourage collaboration and sharing of knowledge and experience to help Starlight in our Mission.
The Digital & Data Advisory Board provide expertise and practical advice on technology areas; insights into new industry / technology trends and identify emerging opportunities / potential ways to innovate and are a source for resourcing and expertise, connecting Starlight with relevant individual / organisations. They will be a sounding board for key strategic decisions and provide ‘wise counsel’ on issues raised.
National Board
Courtenay Smith Chair/Non-Executive Director
Bringing with her over 25 years' experience as a finance professional, Courtenay joined the Starlight Board in 2019
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
Professor Tracey O'Brien Non-Executive Director
Professor Tracey O'Brien is a passionate physician and respected leader in paediatric cancer care and research
Lucinda Gemmell Chair N&R Committee/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 Chair A&R Committee/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.
