Our Team & Board
Kerri Jefferis
Manager
Kerri brings a hybrid brain to her leadership role at the Centre with years of experience in community organising, social art projects, tertiary education and third sector work.
She is a habitual plotter, thrives in collaborative contexts and is committed to creating spaces full of transformative potential.
Kerri has worked in universities, colleges, community interest companies, social enterprises, and was self-employed for several years facilitating projects and workshops, teaching, and working as an evaluation consultant.
She has a BA in Visual Art, a Postgraduate Diploma in Academic Practice in Art, Design and Communication and is a self-confessed Community Development nerd.
Kerri joined the Centre in early 2022 as Community Engagement Officer and has since moved into the role of Manager. She is a BIG fan girl of Vic Park!
Bess Chetkovich
Community Development
Alice Goodall
Admin and Facilities
Hello, I'm Alice - a passionate advocate for community development and engagement.
I am currently completing a Diploma in Community Services at Bentley Tafe and I've dedicated myself to fostering inclusive and safe spaces in community.
I started at VPCC in November ’23 whilst doing work experience, contributing to the 30th Birthday organising. Since then, I have started a role coordinating the Cultural Dinners run in partnership with Vic Park Arts Centre and recently taken on the Admin and Facilities role.
I am a local Vic Parkian and, in my downtime, I transform into a ‘book dragon,’ voraciously devouring literature! Outside the pages, I proudly wear the badge of a green thumb. I find, that tending to plants not only rejuvenates our surroundings but also serves as a metaphor for the growth and interconnectedness we aim to foster in all the communities in which we are part.
I am inspired by the mission of VPCC, recognising the invaluable role it plays in creating a supportive and welcoming environment for all. As I navigate my journey into community development, I am excited to contribute to its ethos and activities!
Tracy Gordon-Velle
Accounts
Tracy is an active member in the Vic Park community as well as a an experienced professional with over 20 years of experience under her belt in finance, business and marketing.
She has broad ranging qualifications which include: depression counselling and crystal healing, behavioural and personal finance management.
Tracy is a Xero wiz and someone who is always seeking to innovate with the help of technology. She is currently completing a Certificate IV in Bookkeeping and BAS, as well as a Certificate in Financial Counselling.
In her spare time, Tracy can be found being a singer of a band and contributing to her neighbourhood via a number of voluntary roles.
Tas Alshafie
Cleaning and Events Support
Hi I'm Tas. A dedicated and passionate individual working as a cleaner at VPCC.
My story started while I was walking in Victoria Park near the community centre and I was amazed by the activities and the welcoming, cheery environment which encouraged me to come in and hand my resume.
I feel lucky that I came by and became part of the team. VPCC is a place that not only provided me with employment but also played a pivotal role in helping me integrate into the country and society seamlessly. The amazing community environment is very supportive and helpful.
In addition to my role in maintaining the cleanliness and order of the community centre, I find joy in expressing my creativity through acrylic drawing and painting. Art has always been a significant part of my life.
I believe in the power of art to uplift spirits and create a positive atmosphere. which aligns seamlessly with the values of the community centre.
Jesvin Karimi
Vice Chair
Jesvin lives by a core value of Service and weaves it into every facet of her life and work, aiming for a better tomorrow.
Jesvin brings valuable and extensive experiences to the centre, including banking and finance, business, risk management and governance spanning education, the corporate sector, and state government.
Jesvin previously served a 4-year term as a councillor right here for our community in the Town of Victoria Park.
Jesvin strongly believes in the significance of safe, open, accessible community spaces, especially in an era where coming together to nurture and heal is more important than ever.
Rahul Seth
Treasurer
Rahul founded Perth’s biggest mental health support group, Activate Mental Health, and is the 2023 WA Volunteer of the Year.
A Chartered Accountant by qualification, Rahul has built a network of volunteer-led fun social activities throughout the Perth metropolitan area for those who identify with lived experiences of mental health issues.
He is an active user of the Victoria Park Community Centre, where he’s hosted a monthly board games night since August 2016.
Lucy Smales
Secretary
Lucy embraces the Vic Park community life, catalysing ideas and sparking and nurturing connections.
Lucy’s approach sees her bring her learning design, facilitation, social, and government innovation experiences into our work and play spaces.
Lucy is a member of an intergenerational all-abilities community singing group, the Mackie St Singers, and believes in the power of music and movement to share our stories. Harmonise and activate connections in the community and celebrate cultural diversity.
Renee Darbyshir
Board Member
Renée believes in the power of community to change the world and transform lives. She brings to the board over 20 years of experience in ABCD community development and social impact leadership.
Renée’s compelling vision is of a participatory future. She brings this alive in her strengths-based practices and through a deep appreciation for cultural planning.
She’s a strategic thinker and strong collaborator who looks forward to contributing to the good governance of this vibrant community centre.
Long Nguyen
Board Member
Long is our local Vietnamese multipotentialite who enjoys connecting with diverse communities through the power of art, food, and stories.
With a Bachelor in International Business Economics and a Master in Applied Design and Art, Long has held a number of roles in different community-led, not-for-profit organisations, most notably as arts administrator at Community Arts Network and media officer at Victoria Park Centre for the Arts.
When not working, Long is a foodie, an interdisciplinary artist specialising in painting, graphic design, food photography, and media art, and a pianist/singer.
Long hopes that his experience, skills, and knowledge can assist the Centre and the community to thrive
Glen McLeod-Thorpe
Board Member
Glen, a local governance and strategy enthusiast, is also experienced in policy and analysis, with diverse and deep experience across various local and state government organisations. With these skills, his board experience, and his drive and hope for our community, Glen helps to keep VPCC, our people, and our community moving in the right direction.
A fan of epic long-distance hikes, bicycles, and most recently pickle ball, you’ll likely find him riding and hanging around Vic Park, volunteering and participating at our local Parkrun and community outdoor cinema.
Hayley Mcgillivray
Board Member
Hayley is a vibrant community member and advocate for inclusive places and spaces. She's all about enjoying the journey, soaking in experiences, and learning along the way, giving as much importance to these aspects as the results.
Hayley works with businesses, helping them innovate through strategic collaborations. Hayley is an innovator, advisory board member, and PhD candidate in industry research collaboration.
On top of all this, she's a dedicated stage mum to her energetic children!
Leila Saba
Board Member
Leila is passionate about learning, innovation, community building and connecting people.
She lives to thrive with passion, compassion, humour and style. Leila is a dedicated volunteer, a long-serving volunteer crisis support counsellor with Lifeline, and a community mentor of students and tech startups.
Leila openly gives so much and is both a natural and intentional capacity builder and collaborator, and she brings her connections across many work areas and networking groups.
Dave Lindner
Chairperson
Dave firmly believes in the power of community, and you’ll find him out and about: 'boots on the ground, cycling the streets, knocking on doors.'
His everyday activism plays a crucial role in making our town the warm and welcoming place it is today. His passion inspires us to envision an inclusive future and work towards those goals.
Dave brings valuable skills and knowledge from his many board, committee, and activism experiences to our team.
He is a long-term supporter and user of the Centre, recently immersing himself in Noongar language and culture alongside his kids, adding another layer to his diverse experiences within our community.