Our People

Khadijah Preston

Marketing Manager

I am a new starter to the team at WEmpower, having 6 years previously working within the Disability/ Job Active Employment Service Industry in the roles of Employment consultant, Pathway trainer in training and support and Development consultant. Specialising in post-placement support, disability support, compliance, administration and marketing. During my employment I completed a Certificate IV in Business. I have always loved working with people and making new connections and networks within the community. I aim to be a positive, energetic and organised person. I stive to display a high level of communication skills and love working directly with people to help make a difference. I grew up and live in Port Macquarie with my husband and 3 children and enjoy spending time with family and friends and have a love for theatre and music.

Helen Smith

Office Administrator

I joined the WEmpower team in October 2023 after a decade of experience in the finance industry, having previously worked as a Mortgage Broker and Lending Manager with a Certificate IV and Diploma in Mortgage Broking and finance. I got into support work as I enjoy working with numbers and the challenges mortgage lending brings. I enjoy working with customers, building relationships and finding solutions to clients' financial needs and helping them achieve their financial goals. I have a relaxed and positive approach to life and strive to be the best I can be. I am customer-focused and aim to deliver first class service to each of our clients. I emigrated from the UK 16 years ago and am married with two young children. I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family. Camping, bush walks. I have a passion for cake decorating and commission my own custom cakes in my spare time.

Christine Baker

Accounts Officer

My journey with Lutan and WEmpower started around 3 years ago having previously been employed in many different areas including accounts, reception, government, customer service, training and Quality Assurance. My loves in life are my children, grandbabies and two dogs and in my spare time, I thoroughly enjoy travelling and discovering new places, playing guitar and swimming. My other passion is for my online business which aims to support women building online businesses as well as supporting and helping animals.

Amy Crawley

Operations Manager

My journey started with Wempower as a support worker for 6 months before joining the office team almost 2 years ago as the scheduler and assistant manager. I am now proudly in the position of Operations Manager and I'm looking forward to seeing where this new role will lead me with exciting new skills to learn and opportunities to grow. I previously worked as an early childhood education and care professional for over 12 years, working with children with additional needs. I enjoy communicating with participants and their stakeholders to assist them in coordinating supports that contribute to their feelings of empowerment and to live a life without barriers. I would describe myself as fun, artistic, dedicated, motivated, easy going, organised, understanding and fair. I live a simple country-style life on my family farm with my husband and 2 young daughters (and many animals). We enjoy spending time together as a family, whether we are going for a horse trail ride together, building a new chicken coop, fencing, or maintaining and making improvements to our farm or home... there is never a dull or boring moment! I also have an abundance of joyful hobbies including arts, crafts and creating, and of course, many outdoor activities that come with country living - horse riding, archery, kayaking, ab sailing, bushwalking, spending time on my farm with my animals, Rodeos - to name a few.

Kaitlin Beresford

Marketing Manager

I started working for WEmpower in January 2022 but disabilities have always been a big part of my life because at the age of 18 I was diagnosed with ASD Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger’s Syndrome), and I also help to care for my older sister who has an intellectual delay, Autism, and Depletion Four Syndrome which is an extremely rare syndrome as well as several other issues. My hobbies and interests are arts and crafts such as drawing, painting, diamond dotting, building models and I am currently building a model of the RMS Titanic! I also love to read, play video games, build Lego, do challenging dot-to-dot pictures and puzzles such as Jigsaws, mega pixel puzzles, find a words and crosswords and I also collect fossils, rocks, and shells. I live at home with my mum, stepdad and sisters as well as our 2 dogs, 2 cats and a saltwater fish tank with fish, a sea urchin, rocks and real coral!

Tahlia Hedge

Rostering Executive

I am very excited to have just started my journey at WEmpower, with 18 months previous experience in Aged Care and 12 months in the NDIS. During those times I got to work in many areas including with patients living with dementia, respite, in-home care, transportation, medications and basic wound handling. I also have Certificate II in agriculture and animal studies and Certificate III in individual support. I do what I do because I love to care for people, I moved into rostering after some health issues because I still wanted to be a part of this wonderful community and industry. I would describe myself as a quiet, dedicated, and loyal person. I am very close with my Mum and kids, doing almost everything together. We make up a diverse household, coming from many different cultures - Tonga, Fiji, Indonesia, Nigeria and Australia. I love spending time with them and my dog Kenai and in my spare time, I enjoy reading, gaming, hiking, road trips and yoga.

Cheryl Brew

Support Worker

At 63 years young, I am an experienced professional in adult and child support, having worked in various capacities from in-home to group home environments. I have also worked in administrative and sales roles. I live with two chronic medical conditions but am committed to my work as a support worker. I have a deep love for animals, and I find joy and comfort in their presence. I am an avid collector of Oriental items and a frequent visitor to swap meets and markets for unique finds. Nature holds a special place in my heart. Outside of work, I enjoy regular walks and experiencing the outdoors, riversides, and coastal settings.

Debbie Paterson

Support Worker

In my role, which I have proudly held for the past 9 months, each shift is not just a job but a rewarding experience. It’s an opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of those I support. My personal journey with a daughter on the autism spectrum has given me valuable insights and a profound understanding of the unique world of autism. This experience has been instrumental in shaping my approach as a Support Worker at WEmpower. I am married with three adult children, and I find my greatest joy in being a nanny to two wonderful grandsons. I love cooking, and spending time with my family and friends. I have loved living in Port Macquarie for over two decades. A fun fact about me: I can speak fluent Italian!

Elizabeth Coote

Support Worker

Being a support worker is a challenging and dynamic role that I enjoy. I balance that by enjoying the quiet, simple life at home in Laurieton with my two cats Max and Sacha. On my days off I tend to my garden, swim a few laps at the local pool, or enjoy leisurely walks along the river. Socialising with friends, listening to music (especially while cooking), and exploring my artistic side through occasional dabbling in art are some of the joys that fill my life. I am also an avid reader, enjoy movies and the beach, and at the heart of my world are my two sons, Aaron and Dane.

Gai White

Support Worker

My journey to becoming a Support Worker at WEmpower began with a personal history of caring for two ill family members, coupled with my own health experiences. Supporting and helping others has become second nature to me, and enabling clients to live their best lives is not just a job for me; it's a fulfilling mission to make a positive difference. I believe in living life to the fullest. This philosophy takes me on adventures in my campervan, exploring local beaches, rivers, national parks, country towns, and beyond whenever time permits. I find joy in the simplicity of life and the unexpected yet wonderful experiences that each journey brings.

Greg Westwood

Support Worker

I am 63, and my career in support work began with my volunteering at Riding for the Disabled after health issues meant I had to ease back from my career as a Stipendiary Steward in the horse racing industry. My time as a volunteer at Riding for the Disabled gave me a new purpose. The fulfillment and satisfaction I experienced there ignited a newfound passion for the support work industry. This led me to WEmpower, where I have embraced the opportunity to make a difference in a new field. Even now, I continue to serve Racing NSW in a casual capacity, officiating at local race meetings. This long-standing commitment to the racing industry has been a significant part of my life.

Jamie Hall

Support Worker

For the past two years, I've been wholeheartedly committed to my role as a Disability Support Worker. This position brings me immense joy and fulfillment, and being in the company of our diverse range of clients is a source of constant inspiration and happiness. For the first time in my career, I can say with certainty that I genuinely love what I do. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is supporting clients of all ages, particularly children. Their boundless enthusiasm and zest for life keep me young at heart and energised. This interaction enriches my life in countless ways, reminding me daily of the impact we can make in the lives of others. Sport has been my lifelong passion. I've been actively involved in various sports throughout my life and continue to play cricket today. In addition, my love for family and animals shapes who I am.

Katrina Crane

Support Worker

Since June 2020, after completing my certification III in aged care, I've been a committed support worker at WEMpower. This role has been a source of immense joy and satisfaction, even with occasional challenges. My approach is simple: treat each client as a friend, respecting professional boundaries, and offering genuine care and respect. The bonds I've formed with my clients, understanding their lives and stories, are treasures I hold dear. At the heart of my life is my beautiful family - a loving husband, Gary, four wonderful children, and five precious grandchildren. For me, family is everything. My husband, a leader at church, and I have built a life centred on community, faith, and service. Our four years in the Philippines, working with a non-profit group, holds a special place in my heart. Living there, learning some of the language, and having my youngest two children born in the Philippines, has given me a deep affection for the Filipino community. Community and connections are vital to me. I cherish moments spent having coffee with friends, my adult children, and neighbours. I also relish walks along the Breakwall and the bush track near our home, embracing the beauty of nature.

Kylie Tykvart

Support Worker

My journey in the disability sector began through my personal connections with relatives who have disabilities. This experience has instilled in me a passion for supporting individuals in achieving their personal goals and assisting with their daily living needs. Whether it's helping in the home, providing personal care, providing access to community and social activities, or simply being a listening ear, my role as a Support Worker is one that I embrace wholeheartedly. I am a 25-year-old mother to a wonderful son, Luka. My life is filled with a variety of interests and hobbies, including arts and crafts, cooking, beach visits, reading, outdoor exploration, hiking, and travel.

Liz Myles

Support Worker

I grew up in Port Macquarie and first worked with people living with disabilities during my time as a taxi driver for PMQ Taxis. This opened a new world of understanding and connection for me. My career in support work began in 2008, before I joined this wonderful company in 2019. As a Support Worker, I am driven by the profound impact we can have on the lives of those we assist. It is deeply rewarding to contribute to the everyday life and well-being of our clients. I believe that everyone, in their uniqueness, deserves to feel valued and included as a member of our community. I am a 61 year old widow who is a proud mother to two lovely children and a loving owner of two dogs. In my personal time, I find joy in walking my dogs, cooking, and immersing myself in books.

Michelle Ring

Support Worker

I have worked with Lutan, and now WEmpower, for over a year and have loved every part of my time here. Previously, I worked in aged care and in hospitals in Sydney, where I conducted diagnostic medical tests. What I cherish most about my job are the diverse activities I get to share with my clients, from domestic chores to gardening, cooking, and shopping. Every task is an opportunity to connect and enrich lives. I also help my clients enjoy a coffee or lunch in a café, going on road trips, engaging in craft, listening to music and dancing, and I provide hand and foot massages. Above all, my goal is to infuse joy and happiness into the lives of those I support. I am dedicated to understanding and catering to the individual needs and interests of each client, ensuring that their experiences are as fulfilling and enjoyable as possible. I am a proud mother of two grown-up boys, living in the heart of Wauchope. Having lived here for over 20 years now, I consider myself a local through and through.

Tammy Hodge

Support Worker

Working at Lutan and now WEmpower is the beginning of a new and exciting journey for me as a support worker. I have always been passionate about helping those who face challenges in our community. I consider myself fortunate to have this opportunity to offer my utmost care and support to my clients, focusing on their emotional, mental and physical well-being, and delivering kindness coupled with guidance. Having lived in the Port Macquarie area for five years, I've grown to love this vibrant community. I am a sociable person, always keen on meeting new people and building connections. As a mother to three adult children and a grandmother to nine grandchildren, family plays an important role in my life. I enjoy diverse and fulfilling hobbies and interests like walking, swimming, going to the gym, and spending time at the beach. Mountain biking and motorbikes are also two of my diverse hobbies, but I also enjoy relaxing coffee sessions with friends. Music is a constant in my life.

Tim Cramer

Support Worker

I have been a dedicated member of Lutan, now the WEmpower support team, for the past 18 months. This chapter in my life began after I returned to Port Macquarie from Sydney, where I led a varied career, running my own video production company and performing in bands professionally. Currently, I am studying for a Certificate III in Disability. I work people of varying needs and abilities and I enjoy motivating and assisting them to achieve their goals. I use my life experience to help people solve problems and enhance their quality of life. My passions include playing the guitar and bass, swimming, bushwalking, cycling, and lawn bowls. These hobbies not only provide me with personal fulfilment but also keep me grounded and connected to the community.

Jamie Laughton

Support Worker

My previous experience as a youth worker at Nautilus Community College has led me to support work and to WEmpower. My journey in this field, nearing its one-year mark, is fueled by a desire to enrich lives and alleviate loneliness.

My personal life is a blend of outdoor adventures and family connections. I am an avid enthusiast of fishing, beach activities, and bodyboarding, often spending quality time with friends, my partner, and my dog.

In support work, I try my best to go beyond mere companionship. My aim is to enrich the lives of our clients, helping them fully embrace life's experiences. I take pride in being an attentive listener and a helpful presence, always eager to assist my clients in achieving their goals and more. I cherish the individual stories of each of my clients, finding joy in the diversity of experiences they bring.

I am easy-going and approachable, and I tailor my services to the unique preferences of each client, encouraging them to try new things, from diverse foods to novel activities, and to be open about their lives.

Living independently, with plans to soon unite with my girlfriend and her son, and my two adult children, family and relationships form the cornerstone of my life.

At WEmpower, my commitment is not just professional; it's personal. I strive each day to bring positivity and meaningful support to those in our care.

Michelle Hollis

Support Worker

I have been a support worker for four years, joining the Lutan team, now WEmpower, in 2018. My move from a career in hospitality to support work was driven by my people skills and a strong desire to help others achieve their goals.

At home, my life is filled with simple joys. I love walking my dog, cooking, watching movies, spending quality time with my family, enjoying BBQs, and engaging in Diamond art. These activities are personally fulfilling and bring a sense of balance and warmth to my life.

When it comes to my participants, my approach is centered around listening to their needs and acting on them, ensuring they feel supported in their choices. My daily goal is to meet their needs, provide equal opportunities within the community, ensure a safe environment, and offer respect and effective communication. I believe in making them feel heard and having their needs met.

I have been described as positive, organised, gentle, strong, and dedicated. I tailor my services to include transport and in-home care. My focus is on providing care that respects the individuality and preferences of each participant.

I am committed to creating an environment where participant needs are heard and respected. At WEmpower, my goal is to support every participant’s journey with positivity, organisation, and a gentle yet strong dedication.

Samantha Round

Support Worker

I have been a dedicated support worker for 10 years, with my time at Lutan, now WEmpower, beginning in July 2019. I am committed to improving the lives of those in our care, and this is deeply rooted in a desire to help people achieve their goals and enjoy a better quality of life.

Outside of work, I am a mother of two and I love the outdoors. My hobbies include fishing, hiking, and water sports. These activities reflect my energetic and adventurous spirit. They provide personal fulfillment, but also infuse my approach to support work with vitality and enthusiasm.

In my interactions with participants, my focus is on ensuring their happiness and meeting their needs while respecting their choices. I am passionate about assisting participants in every aspect of their lives, whether it's through community engagement, in-home care, or transport services. My daily goal is to bring positivity and effectiveness to my role, ensuring every participant feels valued and supported.

I am fun, energetic, and outgoing, and I approach my work with a combination of professionalism and warmth. My services encompass a range of support needs, from transport to in-home care, always tailored to meet the unique requirements of each participant.

Margaret Lohan

Support Worker

I am a new addition to the team, but I have found my passion for helping and supporting participants reflects the core values at WEmpower.

Family and friends are integral to my life. I enjoy spending quality time with my daughter, grandsons, and my cat. Crafting and cross stitch are hobbies that bring creativity and joy into my everyday life.

When working with clients, my focus is on building one-on-one connections and assisting them in becoming independent and content. My daily goal is to ensure that clients understand their choices matter and that they are actively involved in decision-making processes.

My approach to support work is defined by my confident, bubbly, trustworthy, and respectful personality. I believe in treating clients with utmost respect and autonomy, ensuring their dignity and choices are always a priority.

Currently, my expertise includes support work, transport, and in-home care. I aim to offer services that respect the individuality and preferences of each client.

My commitment to honesty, trustworthiness, and respect forms the core of my work. At WEmpower, I am dedicated to providing care that upholds the values of respect and autonomy for every individual.

Fiona Thompson

Support Worker

Since joining the Lutan team, now WEmpower, in October 2022, I have embraced my role as a support worker with enthusiasm and dedication. I transitioned to support work from a 16-year career in retail, where I discovered my passion for supporting customers with disabilities.

As a mother of three daughters and a grandmother to two grandsons, family is at the core of my life. My adventurous spirit extends to my role as a Marine Rescue Volunteer.

In my work with participants, my aim is to ensure their happiness and provide them with the freedom to make their own choices. Each day, I strive to offer respect, choice, and a joyful experience to those I support. I believe in making every interaction count, and I am focused on creating positive and memorable moments for them.

I am positive, outgoing, kind, and energetic, and my approach is client-centered. My services span support care, in-home care, and transport for participants and is tailored to meet their individual needs and preferences.

I am committed to assisting participants with respect and allowing them the freedom to make their own choices. At WEmpower, my goal is to enhance their day-to-day life with positivity, kindness, and a dedicated spirit.

Callan Smith

Support Worker

I have been a support worker for three fulfilling years, and joined Lutan, now WEmpower, in September 2022. My approach to support is driven by a passion for social engagement and a commitment to helping participants find their place in the world.

I have diverse personal interests that include fishing, camping, 4-wheel driving, cooking, gaming, and movies. These hobbies not only fuel my creativity but also bring a sense of adventure to my life.

In my work with participants, my primary aim is to help them create new experiences while building their confidence in their everyday life. Whether it's through community access, in-home care, or respite, I strive to ensure that each client feels productive, learns something new, and most importantly, has fun in the process.

I describe myself as someone with a positive outlook and a chilled attitude, serious when needed but generally light-hearted and approachable. My experiences range from using our local natural environment as a form of therapy – through activities like bushwalking, paddleboarding, fishing, or four-wheel driving – to creating relaxed interactions focused on nature.

I believe that my life experiences, from a loving family background to university education, traveling, and working around the world, have given me a unique perspective that enables me to connect well with any age or social group. Whether it's teaching outdoor skills for a ‘big-brother’ experience or adding a dose of fun and laughter to someone's daily routine, my purpose is to make a positive impact.

To potential clients and their families: if you're looking for someone to guide, mentor, or simply share a laugh with, I'm just a coffee and a 'Hi' away.

Jamie White

Capability and Business Development Manager

After many rewarding years in aged care service, I transitioned to working in NDIS services and embraced a new direction in my career. This journey led me to build strong relationships with various service providers, deepening my understanding of the sector. Recognising gaps in services, I moved from my role as a Support Coordinator to become a Business Development Manager, seeing an opportunity to bridge these gaps.

At WEmpower, my focus is on business growth, empowering our customers to exercise choice and control over their support services. I am dedicated to helping them optimise their NDIS funded support to ensure they receive the best possible care. I look forward to working with WEmpower, and contributing to our mission of enriching lives and fostering independence in our clients. My approach to support is driven by a passion for social engagement and a commitment to helping participants find their place in the world.