”You cannot be involved with Protea Place, and not be changed by it.
Say hello to your team
Our staff and management committee are a group of compassionate and persistent leaders, from both the business and community sectors in Toowoomba, who are determined to effect change in our region.
Amanda Dalton is the founder of Protea Place Inc. and created the model for Protea Place Women's Support Centre.
Amanda has over 20 years experience in the Social Services Sector and identified the need for a women's support centre in Toowoomba.
Amanda has extensive knowledge, experience and qualifications in Service Management, community development, homelessness and complex case management.
Susy Wenitong is the Coordinator of Protea Place and has more than 15 years experience and qualifications in the social services sector.
Susy has extensive skills in complex case management, social enterprise initiatives, program delivery and community development.
Susy is a respected senior professional in the sector and sits on a number of local committees to assist with creative and strategic solutions to social and community issues. Susy has a generous and caring nature and is an incredible asset at Protea Place.
Megan O’Shannessy is the CEO of Qld Rural Medical Education, delivering the Griffith University Rural Medical Program on the Darling Downs.
She is a member of the Darling Downs Health Service Board, the QLD Medical Board, the Darling Downs West Moreton Primary Health Network & the Platinum Health group.
Megan is an Associate Professor at the Griffith University School of Medicine, has a Master of Public Health, Bachelor of Nursing and is a GAICD. Megan brings high level leadership, care and compassion to the TWC Committee.
Amanda Tolson is a Director at Clifford Gouldson Lawyers and volunteers her time on a number of community based boards. Amanda joined TWC in the forming stages of the organisation and was pivotal in setting up the strategic and legal structure.
As a local business owner and mother of a young family, Amanda is very committed to giving back to her community via her professional skills and her heart for the community.
Amanda has a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts (Criminology & Psychology) and is GAICD.
Jess Galvin is director of JG Audit and Assurance and former Partner of a leading mid-tier Accounting firm. With many years in the business, Jess brings significant skill and expertise to assist in building a strong framework for finance and governance.
Jess has a Bachelor of Commerce - is a Chartered Accountant and Registered Company Auditor.
Jess was inspired to join the TWC committee as a way of giving back to her community and helping women in need.
Veronica McKeon is a Director and Psychologist with Mindware Psychology Toowoomba. Veronica has over 15 years experience as a psychologist with a varied experience base.
She has particular interest in women’s issues, adolescent females, pregnancy, PTSD and trauma related issues. Veronica joined committee to use her skill and expertise in guiding the strategic approaches of assisting women.
She assists with training of volunteers on site at Protea Place when required. Veronica has a true heart for assisting women and brings compassion, experience and unique skills to the committee.
Lizzie Adams is the CEO of Goolburri Aboriginal Health Advancement Company and sits on a number of boards and committees within the community.
Lizzie is an Enrolled Nurse along with a range of management and business related qualifications. Lizzie has a passion and heart for her community and leads by example and conviction to assist those in need.
Lizzie joined the committee after attending a homelessness fundraiser sleep-out and hearing about the dire need for support for women in the Toowoomba community. Lizzie brings experience, compassion and a determination to create change.
Helen McGrath is the Integration Manager of the Toowoomba Housing Hub and has had an extensive career in State and Federal Government agencies.
Helen brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Committee and is a well respected senior professional from within the Housing and Homelessness sector.
Helen has significant experience in partnerships, service delivery and driving innovation in community. Helen joined the Communitee to help make a difference in the community.
Kim is passionate about women's empowerment and inclusive communities.
She brings an extensive background in media, marketing & engagement, establishing her own communications business in 1988.
Kim sits on a number of Boards including Down Syndrome Qld and is the cofounder of the Business Disability Awards of Aust.
Kim is also a member of the R.A.D.A.C for Toowoomba Regional Council and a member of Women In Media.