B.Comm/LLB/LLM GAICD

Susan has been on the Board since March 2017 and has held the position of Chair since October 2018. Susan has 30 years’ experience as a lawyer, with a focus on employment law. Susan teaches contemporary leadership and change management at the University of Sydney; advises organisations locally and globally on issues relating to diversity and inclusion. Susan is a member of Australian Institute of Company Directors and an Honorary Associate of The University of Sydney Business School.

Susan has a wide range of experience in community organisations, both in advising them on employment issues, and in governance roles. She is currently Chair of Epilepsy Action Australia and a board member on Jessie Street National Women’s Library. She has previous experience as a board member of Rape and Domestic Violence Services Australia and as a sub-committee member of Women Lawyers Association of NSW, Workplace Practices and Policy Sub-Committee.

FCCA FGIA

Geraldine joined the board in 2021.  Geraldine is currently CEO of the Waratah Education Foundation, which supports charities with a strong focus on education and closing the gap.  Geraldine has nearly 10 years of experience in education, including prior experience in the operation of a childcare centre.

Whitney Brennan has been on the Board since February 2019. Whitney brings extensive experience in community engagement, government funding process and government relations, including experience working for the Former Prime Minister, The Hon Malcolm Turnbull. Whitney is completing a Masters in International Security with a focus on Human Security.

Fiona has been on the Board since November 2021. With over thirty years of experience across government, corporate and the not-for-profit sectors in social impact, Fiona is known for her deep understanding of the social impact agenda.

Over the past 20 years, Fiona has been at the forefront of corporate social responsibility and social impact programs in some of Australia’s top performing socially responsible brands, including Westpac and Kimberly-Clark Australia & New Zealand.  Fiona has also held several senior executive roles within the not-for-profit sector, and currently also sits on the Fundraising & Marketing Committee for Mary Ward International Australia.

Bachelor Visual Communications (Honors)(Class 2 Division 1)

Sarah joined the Board of the Cottage in April 2018 as Deputy Chair. She brings with her over 14 years’ experience in marketing, brand strategy and communications in both the Not-For-Profit and Corporate sectors. Sarah is passionate about supporting vulnerable women and children and continues to work closely with both Board and staff members to implement and optimise marketing strategies to ensure that the legacy of Bondi Beach Cottage continues well into the future.

BA, MA, MSW (Q)

Eleanor is a feminist social worker and trauma specialist counsellor. She is interested in anti-oppressive and critical approaches to social injustice.  She is an experienced leader of teams providing responses to social injustices and organisations advocating for social justices.

Available for specialist DFV or generalist counselling.

Diploma in Early Childhood Education

Throughout my work, I aim to support children, families, and educators in achieving their goals, while providing a loving, caring, safe, and secure environment that is welcoming, warm, and inclusive of all cultures, abilities, and family situations.

I’ve been working at Bondi Beach Cottage for 4 years. It is rewarding to work here because we share the same interests, goals, values, and beliefs regarding teaching and caring for children and families.

Spending time with my family and friends, cycling, hiking, and traveling are some of my favorited things to do.

Currently studying a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education

I truly believe that a sense of belonging is crucial for each child’s development, healthy growth, and who they will become. Therefore, my aims are to build trustworthy relationships with the children, provide a safe environment, and support and understand their emotions. This will lead children to develop self-confidence, a strong sense of security and well-being, as it will enhance their learning capacity. I love spending time with friends, travelling, volleyball, trekking and sweets.

Diploma in Early Childhood Education

I believe that each child is unique and as an educator, I value and develop each child’s strengths, interests, and skills. It is our role to support, guide and encourage children, their families and the community in the journey that is early childhood education. I love to spend my spare time with my kids and exercising through swimming, tennis, cycling and badminton. I also love reading and watching movies.

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education

I’ve worked at BBC for 18 years. I’m extremely dedicated to caring for our little ones while providing a fun and safe environment. It’s a wonder to see how their personalities develop day by day, one by one in different directions, knowing that I’m a part of their development. I like to ensure our cottage is spotless every morning. In my spare time, I enjoy the company of my family, especially my 2 little grandsons. I also like to go to the movies, attend literature talks, author presentations and fine dining. I also meditate and love snorkelling in the tropical reef of Southern Philippines island and the Algave-Portugal.

Diploma in Early Childhood Education

It was my childhood dream to become an educator. As I go on with my life, I have been learning that being an educator is a rewarding profession beyond the title and benefits it could give you, especially when you can see the children learning new things, having fun and building a good relationship with everyone. Back in my home country, I studies a Bachelors in Secondary Education to fulfill my dream of becoming a teacher and I would choose to become one all over again.

Currently studying a Diploma in Early Childhood Education

The children are the reflex of our teaching and the experiences we provide to them. Through play they learn skills for life! It is an educator’s role to create an environment where the children can feel the sense of

belonging, where they can display emotions, develop physical skills, feel confident. It’s also amazing how much the children learn from us, and we learn from them! I love going to the beach, meeting friends, coffee, chocolate, travelling and discovering new places!

Currently studying a Diploma in Early Childhood Education

I believe that children are our future. I want to inspire your children to follow their dreams and give them love and support. I hope to fill their days with laughter and memories. I’m happy to be a part of this team where everyone’s goal is to give the children a fun, loving and safe environment. I love travelling, cooking, bushwalking, and spending time with my friends.

Sandra is the Operations Manager at BBC and has been dedicated to overseeing the smooth running of the Cottage for nearly 6 years.  She has a Bachelor of Science majoring in Mathematics and Psychology, a Diploma of Education in Secondary Teaching, and a wealth of professional experience.

Sandra enjoys utilising her diverse skill set to contribute to the success of the Cottage and is committed to making a positive impact within the community.

Sandra is the proud mother of three adult sons.