President
Ian Weatherley

Ian Weatherley has worked in primary, secondary and tertiary education in Qld, the UK and Canada. During the last 30 years he has fulfilled senior roles including both Deputy Principal and Principal. He holds both Bachelors and Masters degrees in Education. He served a one-year secondment teaching and mentoring teacher trainees at the Simon Fraser University in Canada.

He has coached boys’ soccer, girls’ hockey and mixed tennis teams of ten winning premiership.

He has played a significant role in organising and chaperoning school music tours to Europe and America, as well as sporting tours to New Zealand. He has been involved in a number of community organisations including the Canadian Kinsmen, Toastmasters, an Advisory Planning Commission, a Family Counselling Service and Volunteer Marine Rescue.

Over many years he has served as an office bearer on committees including Chairman. He has also been recognised for having served as a Justice of the Peace for over 46 years.

Ian joined the Management Committee of Connect2Group in September 2012.

Secretary
Mark Hoogsteyns

Mark brings a vast wealth of safety experience gained from senior roles across multiple industries such as Mining and Energy, Construction, Civil Construction, Equipment Hire, Transport and Logistics and Public-Sector Management.

Mark established his own broad-based Safety, Human Resources and Management Consulting organisation in 2003.  His clients include Origin Energy, Queensland Police, Fujitsu Limited, Ergon Energy, News Limited, Suncorp and Queensland Health. 

Mark uses this broad base of experience to bring client’s specialist people, change and systems solutions. Mark also specialises in start-ups, turnarounds and improving operational effectiveness.

Mark also has a passion for economic development, having worked at the Qld Chamber of Commerce & Industry, served on economic development boards and boards of chambers of commerce.

He has worked in many different types of roles, across different industries. A senior management generalist with a “systems brain”, who is great with people, and loves solving problems!

Mark has an Associate Diploma in Business, a Graduate Management Certificate and a Master’s in Business Administration.

Mark joined the Management Committee of Connect2Group in September 2017.

Treasurer
Kevin Grice

Kevin Grice has worked in senior finance roles in manufacturing and mining companies.  His early career was spent at BHP where he spent time at iron and steel making operations in Newcastle and Whyalla.

He has also spent time in roles in smaller manufacturing companies and at both large and small mining companies.

He has board and general management experience.

Kevin is experienced in strategic planning, analysis and negotiation of mergers and acquisitions, management accounting and public company accounting and reporting.  He has led a number of profitability turnarounds.

On retiring from full time employment, Kevin spent three years working for a Not for Profit organisation, International China Concern, in the finance area.

He is also a passionate rugby supporter, having played over 300 grade games for clubs in Newcastle and Wollongong, and coached for two years.

Keving holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Newcastle University, and is a member of both CPA Australia (Certified Practising Accountants) and the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Kevin joined the Manaement Committee of Connect2Group in September 2018.

Member

Michael Smith

Michael immigrated to Australia from England in 1963.  He lived in Sydney for 22 years working as a Manager in manufacturing and transport industries.  Michael moved to Brisbane in 1984 and was self employed in the property and maintenance sector for real estate agents from Cleveland to Tingalpa.

Michael cared for his step son for eight years when he was injured in an accident and became a quadriplegic.  Michael joined the Management Committee of Bayside Respite Care in 2012 and was elected President in 2017.

Michael joined the Management Committee of Connect2Group in January 2020.

CEO - Nathan Bollard

Nathan has been named as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Connect2Group Inc. with over 28 year’s experience he has been involved in the disability sector, employment, youth mental health and as CEO of Bayside Respite Care for the last four years.

The Management Committee Board believes that Mr Nathan Bollard will be fantastic match for the position and a valuable contributor to Connect2Group. 

General Manager Communities - Daniel Barry

Daniel has been working in the disability sector for 18 years, working in various roles in direct support and management. 

Committed to ensureing the wellbeing, empowerment and dignity of every individual within our community at Connect2Group. We understand the unique needs and aspirations of each person we serve, and it is our mission to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected and supported.

General Manager Operations - David Gordon

An accomplished senior executive, leveraging over 30 years of business experience in the banking and financial sector. Incorporating Senior Executive roles within national and international banks in Australia. Requiring strong commercial acumen with solid financial modelling and cost management experience. Have occupied the role of Chief Operating Officer and Company Secretary for a National Disability provider, including the position of interim CEO.

Holding a Master of Applied Finance - Macquarie University NSW (MApplFin.)

Angela has been with Connect2Employment for over three years, excelling as a team leader for two. Her travel industry experience and personal insights enrich her role, where she passionately supports participants in securing employment and guides her team toward this goal.

Florin, an accomplished economist, boasts over 9 years of invaluable experience within the Australian Disability sector. His unwavering commitment to excellence is evident as he channels his financial acumen and analytical prowess to meticulously oversee the intricate workings of the team. Florin’s astute management ensures seamless operations and aligns the business with the stringent DSS compliance requirements.

Debra, with over seven years in the disability sector, collaborates with participants, their families, and employers. She’s committed to empowering individuals through tailored strategies that enhance job efficiency and productivity. Her mission is to provide equal, empowering support, recognising each person’s unique needs for a more inclusive workplace.

Praisey, an empathetic and diligent employment consultant, has dedicated over a year to the disability sector. Her passion, punctuality, and commitment to exceeding expectations make her an invaluable asset. Whether supporting clients or collaborating with her team, Praisey’s approachability shines through.

Harmony has been a part of the Connect2Employment team for the last 6-months. Harmony has a previous background in Sales and Customer Service where her acquired skillsets have proven to be a valuable addition to the Organisation. Harmony has a passion for helping members of the community with intellectual and learning disabilities achieve their goals. 

Roimata has been working with Connect2Employment within the disability sector for 18 months. Her passion for this work shines through in every interaction. Roimata goes above and beyond what is expected, ensuring that those she serves receive personalised attention and tailored solutions. Roimata's dedication is matched by her organisational skills, making her an efficient and effective professional.

Andrew has a wealth of experience in the disability and aged care sectors. He has actively supported not-for-profit organisations in the construction of respite centres and has been a strong advocate for in-home care services. Recently, Andrew transitioned to the disability employment support sector. In this role, he assists participants in their search for suitable employment opportunities, guides them through the application process, and provides support for job interview preparation.