Katrina has resided in the Shoalhaven since early childhood and attended schools in Milton/Ulladulla and Bomaderry. Katrina and her husband run an accounting practice in Nowra and their children were raised in the area. She has been involved in many aspects of the local community. Both of her children attended university and Katrina is aware of the importance of giving local youth the opportunities to assist them pursue their academic dreams.

Noelene has spent more than a decade as a teacher and curriculum leader in both secondary and primary schools in city and regional contexts, and nearly three decades in teacher education in regional Universities, including most recently at UOW. Her passion and commitment to education and opportunities to help young people achieve their potential underpin her actions. Noelene was honoured to be invited to join the SEF committee in 2021, and took on the role of Secretary in 2025.

Anne has both corporate and consulting experience in human resources, leadership development, career planning and executive coaching. Anne grew up in country QLD, and understands the difference that grant funding can make, as she was fortunate to receive assistance to pursue her secondary and tertiary education in Brisbane and Sydney. Anne is passionate about helping young people in the Shoalhaven gain opportunities that will help them pursue their career dreams.

Paul has an extensive background in tertiary and vocational education and training, business development, and Community and Regional development. Currently a Senior Project Officer with the NSW Department of Education, Paul works with local high schools on the South Coast and industry employers, to build partnerships for career and work opportunities for young people. Paul is a current Board member of the Country University Centre Southern Shoalhaven and is passionate about increasing education and training opportunities for young people across the region.
Paul was previously the SEF Secretary.

The daughter of two public school teachers, Kate attended school in Ulladulla before moving to Sydney to complete her university education. Following a 20+ year career in television, communications and marketing, Kate returned to the Shoalhaven in 2021 with her family. With an appreciation of both the financial and emotional demands that relocating for education places on young people, Kate is particularly passionate about equitable access to resources and opportunities for all youth.

After completing tertiary studies in Business and then in Applied Finance, Ben enjoyed a career in the finance sector in Sydney and Hong Kong. The move to Milton in the Shoalhaven was made over 20 years ago, motivated by lifestyle. When not working, Ben can often be found enjoying ocean swimming or playing at the Mollymook golf course. Through the establishment of a financial planning business and via raising twin boys, Ben has seen first hand the importance of education but also the financial inequality in our local area. Ben is keen to help local youth capitalise on education opportunities and is honoured to contribute via the SEF.

Paul is a lifelong Shoalhaven local and currently Senior Associate at RMB Lawyers Shoalhaven office. Paul previously served as an elected Councillor and Deputy Mayor of Shoalhaven City Council. He is currently a member of the board of Music in the Regions and the Management Committee of South Coast and Country Community Law. Paul’s previous governance and board experience includes University of Wollongong Council, UOW Pulse Ltd, Shoalhaven and Districts Law Society and Southern Shoalhaven Country University Centre. As a Smith Family Learning for Life Scholarship recipient, Paul is passionate about expanding educational and employment opportunities for young people across the Shoalhaven.

Alana is an SEF Alumni and previous grant recipient of the Shoalhaven Education Fund. Having grown up, studied, volunteered and worked on the South Coast, Alana now lives in Narrm, Melbourne. With a passion for youth engagement and community development, Alana has led youth wellbeing and leadership programs in Australia and overseas for over a decade. Alana is committed to creating spaces that ensure young people have a meaningful say in decisions that affect them.