Board Chair (2023 – present)

Director (2022 – present)

Craig joined the VPC Board in October 2022 and became Board Char in July 2023. Prior to becoming Board Chair, Craig was the Chair of the Governance, People & Culture Committee. His previous Board roles include the Board Chair of the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation, being a director from 2014 to 2023.

Craig is the CEO of LeavePlus, the portable long service leave Scheme for the construction industry in Victoria. He has over 30 years in finance related roles, across a variety of industries including investment banking, state government, and member-based organisations.

Before joining LeavePlus in September 2021, Craig was the CEO at Foresters Financial, one of Australia’s largest member-owned friendly societies that offers a range of investment and insurance products. Prior to this, he was the CFO for the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

He is a Fellow of CPA Australia, a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree.

Lachlan is the Treasurer of the Victorian Pride Centre. He currently is a Senior Manager at EY working in transformation and enablement of strategic initiatives in Assurance. He also has over 10 years’ experience at EY in their audit team specialising in the financial services sector. He is a qualified Chartered Accountant and has a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) from the University of Melbourne. He has served on the VPC Audit, Finance & Risk Committee since June 2024.

“My passion lies in creating pathways that connect the community to each other and to the Victorian Pride Centre. A centre that thrives with energy and inclusivity. A centre where every member of our community feels a sense of belonging and pride.”

Tara brings more than 14 years of experience in community-based mental health and social services. With a background as a housing support worker and, later, mental health occupational therapist, she has since undertaken further studies in leadership, business and social impact to further leverage her insights from all levels of operations and service development in her governance.

With a background spanning multiple mental health leadership roles, Tara is and is currently General Manager Victoria – Mental Health and Wellbeing Services with Wellways Australia.

Tara is passionate about ensuring organisations are equipped to deliver on and understand the key role responsive and inclusive services play in ensuring opportunity and participation for all. She is also a member of the Victoria Government LGBTIQA+ Taskforce Health and Wellbeing Working Group providing strategic advice on ways to improve the responsiveness of health services to issues faced by LGBTIQA+ people, and the Diverse Communities’ Mental Health & Wellbeing Working Group providing advice on the implementation of other Royal Commission recommendations to ensure responsiveness to diversity.

“I consider the Victorian Pride Centre a game-changer for Victorian LGBTIQA+ communities as it provides an essential platform to come together, develop understandings, and change systems, hearts and minds.”

Jane Crawley is a dynamic and creative public sector leader experienced in guiding large and complex organisations, groups and portfolios. Her most recent position was Executive Director, Creative Industries with Creative Victoria, a position she held three years. Jane’s prior role was Director, Arts Investment with Creative Victoria, a role she held for two years.

In these roles Jane led Creative Victoria’s strategy and investment in the non-government creative industries, accountable for the state’s creative industries strategy and for Victorian First Peoples, Regional, Screen, Design, Music, and Arts sectors investment. With responsibility for a $100M+ annual budget, 70 staff and scores of key stakeholders, Jane led the delivery of Creative State 2016-20 and the design and adoption of Creative State 2025 and VicScreen, Victoria’s first strategy for the screen industry.

Prior to working for the Victorian government, Jane led Arts Melbourne and other portfolios for the City of Melbourne.

Jane was involved in some of the work that led to establishing the Pride Centre, as Co-Chair of the Community Reference Group 2018-20, and as a member of the Building and Activation Sub-Committee in 2017 – 18.

“This is an incredible achievement of the LGBTIQA+ communities of Victoria: driven and established by the sheer power of community activism and volunteerism, the Centre is a beacon, signalling the collective strength, beauty and success of Victoria’s queer communities. The establishment and opening of the Centre is only the beginning – I hope to support the Centre’s ongoing development through my role as a Board member such that every LGBTIQA+ person, no matter who or where they are, feels collective ownership of the Centre as our place.”

Paul is an international leader who has worked with large heritage retail and hospitality brands both in the UK and Australia and has experience in the not-for-profit sector in Australia. He is a proud member of the rainbow community and lives in the City of Stonnington with his fiancé. Paul has a passion for equality, inclusion and fairness and loves the Victorian Pride Centre’s ethos of a welcoming safe, accessible and exciting space for all LGBTIQA+ communities.

Paul has been a volunteer at JOY Media since 2016, both on and off the microphone, supporting the storytelling our diverse communities. Paul has also been on the JOY Board for two years 2022-24, and most recently as JOY Media President and Board Chair. As an avid music, theatre and arts fan, Paul has enjoyed championing new young queer writers, artists and performers of all genres both in Australia and from overseas. Paul holds a BA with Hons in Accountancy & Finance.

Paul is keen to ensure the Victorian Pride Centre is a vibrant inspirational centre for all LGBTIQA+ communities.

Felicity is a seasoned professional at the crossroads of Marketing, Communications, and Fundraising. With a strategic mindset and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact, Felicity has over a decade of experience in driving organisational success.

Felicity has successfully navigated public, private, and non-profit roles, focusing on the arts and creative industries, consumer goods, and health services. Marketing and events experience is evident in the contribution to Sunshine Coast Pride Festival, Big Gay Day in Fortitude Valley, Caloundra Music Festival, and for 6 years, Felicity’s professional expertise played an integral part of Midsumma Festival, Midsumma Pride March, and Victoria’s Pride – where she cultivated a deep connection with the LGBTQIA+ arts community.

Her commitment extends beyond the workplace, through volunteering at JOY Media and currently holds a volunteer Technical Officer position on the board of Dykes on Bikes Melbourne. As a long-term resident of the City of Port Phillip, Felicity also holds a member position on the CoPP LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee.

Shian has a diverse background with extensive experience across various sectors, including commercial, corporate, festivals, not-for-profit organisations, touring, and cultural arts institutes. His portfolio features work with notable organisations like Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, the State Library of Victoria, and the Sydney Opera House.

Throughout his career, Shian has excelled in different presentation formats and operational roles, contributing to projects across Southeast Asia and Australia. His expertise allows him to navigate complex environments and achieve impactful results, making him an invaluable contributor.

With a strong growth mindset, Shian embraces learning and challenges as essential parts of his journey, consistently striving for personal and professional development.

Jack brings over a decade of leadership and management experience in the health and fitness industry, alongside three years in owners corporation management. With a BA (Hons) in Media Writing and a strong background in administration, operations, and executive support, Jack is highly skilled in streamlining processes, managing communications, and ensuring seamless office management.

Throughout his career, Jack has successfully led teams, improved operational efficiencies, and built strong relationships across diverse industries. His expertise spans diary and schedule management, stakeholder coordination, and creating organised, productive workplaces where teams can thrive. Jack is passionate about fostering a positive office culture and providing high-level support to senior leadership.

Outside of work, Jack enjoys staying active, exploring the outdoors, and engaging with initiatives that promote health, fitness, and community connection.

Anita has over 10 years of experience in venue and event management, working with arts organisations such as Arts House, Queen Victoria Women’s Centre, Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre, and RISING festival. As the Event & Program Manager at the Victorian Pride Centre, she is dedicated to creating impactful events that celebrate and uplift the LGBTIQA+ community.

With a background in arts management, Anita loves overseeing large-scale events, and fostering inclusive, engaging experiences. She is passionate about promoting diversity and creativity and contributing to meaningful change within the community arts and cultural sector.

Jenna has a background in event and front of house operations with a diverse background in everything from live music venues and theatres to large-scale Arts and Music Festivals. They have worked on notable festivals both here in Australia and in Canada including the Melbourne International Film Festival and Just For Laughs comedy festival.

As the Front of House Supervisor Jenna oversees the running of events at the Victorian Pride Centre to ensure a positive and affirming experience for visitors, staff and volunteers.

Valentin was born and raised in France before moving to Australia 9 years ago, following a brief stay in England. Captivated by Melbourne’s vibrant energy, he decided to make it his home – a decision he has cherished ever since

With over 15 years of experience in management and customer service, along with an experience in venues, events, and festival coordination, Valentin is committed to ensure smooth booking processes and delivering exceptional service for the diverse spaces at the Pride Centre.  His role involves managing room bookings at the Pride Centre, ensuring all hirers have an exceptional experience.

“My journey began as a volunteer at the Pride Centre, and I am now proud to contribute full-time as the Booking Coordinator, supporting the LGBTIQA+ community.”

Tyler is committed to fostering safe and inclusive spaces, both in his professional role at the Victorian Pride Centre and in his broader community involvement. As Venue and Facilities Coordinator, Tyler ensures the Centre’s physical attributes are not only well-maintained but truly safe, creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and secure the moment they walk through the door. With expertise in building compliance, contractor management, and event support, Tyler combines strategic oversight with a personal commitment to care and community.

Tyler values working at the VPC for the opportunity to contribute to a place that uplifts the LGBTIQA+ community, while building strong relationships with resident organisations. Outside of work, Tyler continues to nurture inclusive spaces, whether hosting movie nights with friends or attending community events. His approach is defined by a balance of precision, warmth, and an unwavering dedication to safety and pride.

Adam is a seasoned executive consultant with a wealth of experience in IT solutions and transformational change programs, having worked across both the government and private sectors in the US, Singapore and Australia. With a career spanning several decades, Adam has been instrumental in driving innovation and efficiency in various organizations.

Having semi-retired from his professional endeavors, Adam has now chosen to focus on his background in volunteer program management. His commitment to social causes has shaped his perspective and approach, enabling him to lead impactful initiatives that foster community resilience and support. Adam’s work in various volunteer roles showcases his passion for making a difference and his ability to inspire others to contribute to meaningful change.

Having joined the VPC in April of 2024 as a volunteer, Adam continues to advocate for causes close to his heart, leveraging his extensive experience to mentor others and support community programs and is the Interim Concierge and Volunteer Program Coordinator at the VPC.

Ivy joins our team with a background in Marketing, Theatre Making, and Producing. You will often see them around town working on various Theatre productions and writing another script. She is a graduate of the Victorian College of the Arts with a degree in Theatre and has worked in Marketing and Communications for major arts festivals, including Midsumma Festival. In addition to producing a range of Independant Theatre Productions, Ivy co-founded their own Theatre company, Big Dog Theatre.

Ivy is excited to be working at the Victorian Pride Centre, helping build the inaugural Telling It with Pride Speakers Program, which amplifies the voices of LGBTIQA+ community speakers and leaders. Ivy is passionate about arts access and collaborating with LGBTIQA+ artists, connecting them with new audiences. She is always ready to contribute to projects with play, joy, and creativity.

Josh comes to us with a background in operations, event coordination, training, fundraising and partnerships. Having worked across media, private and non-profit organisations, he is passionate about work that matters with a particular focus on LGBTIQA+ issues and the intersectionality of marginalised groups. He is a graduate of La Trobe University with an Honors Degree in Philosophy focusing on Critical Race and Queer Theory.

Having only started working in community organisations 12 months ago, Josh has found his passion for creating connection through collaboration and exploring shared lived experience to fill in knowledge gaps and lower barriers both physical and non.

Josh is excited to help continue to develop the work of the Victorian Pride Centre, continuing long lasting and community benefitting partnerships, he is also always up for a coffee and encourages anyone wanting to work with the Pride Centre to reach out for a chat.

Katie joins our team having studied public relations and politics. She has interned with RISING festival and also works at Funlab – exercising her passion for joy and play. Katie has a particular interest in the arts and culture of Narrm, and you will find her at cinemas, galleries and festivals throughout the year.

In her spare time, Katie is also a marketing volunteer for Worthy Cause – a social enterprise that offers an employment program to people who have endured severe hardships and marginalisation. She is driven by social inclusion and change, and is constantly looking to work toward a more equitable world.